Instructions: How to properly enrich cannabis with olive oil
In this article, you'll learn the pros and cons of different fats for cannabis infusions and how to make your own cannabis-infused olive oil at home. Not only is it a great addition to many dishes, but it can also be enjoyed on its own.
You can use cannabis-infused olive oil in a variety of recipes—even baked goods. Or you can consume the oil directly to take advantage of its properties. The choice is yours! In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about infusing fats with cannabis. We'll also share a cannabis olive oil recipe you can try at home and show you how to dose it.
Which oil is best for making cannabis oil?
Each oil brings its own characteristics, from the versatile coconut oil to the delicate walnut oil. The best choice depends on individual preferences regarding taste, texture and desired potency. Here are some of the most popular options:
Coconut Oil : Coconut oil has a high saturated fat content, which allows for efficient absorption of cannabinoids and makes it a potent canna oil. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes, from baked goods to savory foods. Coconut oil's unique consistency, which solidifies at room temperature, is well suited for solid edibles and topical applications.
Olive oil : Olive oil has a distinctive nutty and fruity flavor that goes well with a variety of dishes, especially Mediterranean foods. There are many different varieties of olive oil that offer different flavor nuances. Although olive oil does not absorb cannabinoids as efficiently as coconut oil, its monounsaturated fatty acid content still makes for an effective infusion.
Walnut oil : Walnut oil has a delicate nutty flavor and adds a special touch to salads, baked goods, and pasta. Although its fat content is lower than that of coconut and olive oil, walnut oil still allows for effective absorption of cannabinoids.
Canola Oil : Known for its light flavor and high smoke point, canola oil works well in cannabis infusions. Its subtle flavor allows the cannabis flavors to come through well. Canola oil offers a moderate infusion of cannabinoids and is a versatile option in the kitchen.
Cannabutter vs. Canna Oil: Choosing between cannabutter and canna oil depends on several factors, including desired potency, flavor preferences, and how you plan to use the product. Cannabutter is popular for its rich flavor and versatile use in baked goods, while canna oil is a vegan alternative and offers different flavor nuances depending on the type of oil. Ultimately, choosing between cannabutter and canna oil is a personal preference that depends on individual needs and preferences.
Optimal ratio of oil to cannabis
Can weed olive oil get you high? Absolutely - provided you decarboxylate your cannabis (see below) and use a strain that contains plenty of THC. With that in mind, you should think about how much cannabis you're actually adding to your oil.
The ideal ratio of oil to cannabis can vary depending on the potency you want and the intended use of the oil, but a common starting point is a 1:1 ratio. This results in a fairly potent infusion that is suitable for a variety of uses, from cooking to topical application. If you prefer a milder effect or are new to cannabis edibles, you can moderate the potency by adjusting (reducing) the amount of cannabis - for example, using a 2:1 oil to cannabis ratio.
Of course, the initial THC or CBD content of the cannabis strain you use will also affect the strength of the final product, as will the amount of oil you ultimately consume.
You may need to experiment a bit to find the perfect ratio. Be especially careful with edibles, as the effects can be much stronger and longer lasting than inhaling cannabis smoke or vapor. Start with a low dosage and work your way up. Also, be aware of the delayed onset of effects - it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half for the effects to kick in.
Instructions: How to infuse olive oil with cannabis
After gaining a wealth of valuable information about fats and weed, you're now rewarded with a simple step-by-step guide to making your own cannabis olive oil. Before you get started, you might want to know how long it takes to infuse olive oil with cannabis - the process can take a few hours, but we promise it's worth it.
Ingredients:
- 7–10g ground cannabis flowers
- 240ml olive oil
Equipment:
- Baking tray
- Baking paper
- oven
- Sieve or cheesecloth
- Cannabis grinder (optional, but blenders and coffee grinders can grind the cannabis too much, resulting in a bitter taste)
- Cooking pot, soup pot, pressure cooker or slow cooker
- Glass jar for storing the enriched oil
Preparation :
- Start by decarboxylating your cannabis to activate the THC and CBD. Preheat your oven to 110ºC. Then grind your cannabis. Avoid grinding it too finely so that it doesn't fall through the cheesecloth or sieve later. Spread the ground or hand-crushed weed evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake it for 30-40 minutes. This will convert the plant's non-intoxicating THCA into THC.
- Combine the olive oil and decarboxylated cannabis in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 2 to 3 hours, keeping the oil at 160-200ºF (71-93ºC). This will prevent the THC from being destroyed.
- Place a strainer or cheesecloth over your glass container and carefully pour the cannabis oil mixture through. Avoid squeezing what's left to prevent excess chlorophyll from getting into the oil, which would give it a more herbal taste. Discard the plant material. The cannabis-infused olive oil should last for at least two months, although the shelf life can be extended if you store it in the refrigerator.
Note: Be careful when using cannabis-infused olive oil for heated dishes. Avoid microwaving and choose a low temperature when cooking to preserve the potency and flavor of the oil.
Dosage of cannabis olive oil:
Determining the correct dosage of cannabis-infused olive oil can be challenging due to the varying potency of different cannabis strains and individual tolerance levels. Start with small doses, especially if you're new to consuming edibles, and gradually increase the dose as needed and desired. A common dose to start with is 1 teaspoon of the infused oil, which can then be adjusted based on effects and personal preference. Read our comprehensive guide to dosing cannabis in its various forms to ensure safe use.
Cannabis olive oil: versatile and tasty
Cannabis-infused olive oil is not only a fun and potent addition to your culinary repertoire, but it's also truly delicious. Its versatility means it can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple dressings to complex sauces and impressive baked goods. After reading this article, you'll be more than ready to master both the production and use of canna oil. We hope you enjoy!
