With the growing popularity of cannabis for medical use, many people are exploring the benefits of making their own marijuana-infused treats at home. Whether you’re looking for an inhalation-free alternative, a longer-lasting effect, or simply want to get creative in the kitchen – making your own edibles can be a fun and delicious way to consume medical marijuana.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the basics of creating your own mouth-watering medical marijuana-infused treats.
Understanding Cannabis Edibles
Cannabis edibles are food products that have been infused with cannabis extracts. These tasty treats come in many forms, like gummies, baked goods, beverages, and more. Edibles offer a great alternative to smoking or vaping, providing a discreet and smoke-free way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis.
Plus, the effects of edibles tend to last longer than other consumption methods, making them an excellent choice for those looking for extended relief.
Making Your Own Edibles: Getting Started
Choosing the Right Strain: THC vs. CBD
When making your own cannabis edibles, it’s important to choose the right strain for your needs. THC-dominant strains are known for their psychoactive effects, which can provide a euphoric feeling and pain relief.
On the other hand, CBD-dominant strains are non-psychoactive and are often used for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Decide what you want to achieve with your edibles and choose your strain accordingly.
Decarboxylation: What It Is & Why It’s Important
Decarboxylation is a crucial step in making cannabis edibles. This process involves heating the cannabis to activate its compounds, particularly THC and CBD. Without decarboxylation, your edibles won’t have the desired effects.
Tools & Equipment You’ll Need
Before you start making edibles, gather the necessary tools and equipment. You’ll need:
- A baking sheet for decarboxylation
- A grinder for breaking up the cannabis
- A saucepan or slow cooker for infusing butter or oil
- Basic kitchen utensilsÂ
Making Cannabis-Infused Ingredients
The key to making your own edibles is making cannabis-infused ingredients. By making medical marijuana-infused oil or butter, the possibilities become endless! Here are easy, step-by-step guides to making canna-butter and canna-oil so you can elevate your culinary experiences.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cannabis Butter
- Decarboxylate your cannabis: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Melt the butter: In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter with 1 cup of water over low heat.
- Add the cannabis: Once the butter is melted, add the decarboxylated cannabis. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture: Use a cheesecloth to strain the mixture into a bowl, removing all plant material.
- Cool and store: Let the cannabutter cool, then refrigerate. It will solidify and be ready for use.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cannabis Oil
- Decarboxylate your cannabis: Follow the same steps as for cannabutter, preheating the oven to 240°F (115°C) and baking ground cannabis for 30-40 minutes.
- Combine oil & cannabis: In a slow cooker, combine 1 cup of your preferred oil (e.g., coconut, olive) with the decarboxylated cannabis.
- Infuse the oil: Set the slow cooker on low and let the mixture infuse for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture: Use a cheesecloth to strain the oil into a jar, removing all plant material.
- Cool & store: Allow the oil to cool before sealing the jar. Store in a cool, dark place.
Once you’ve made your cannabis-infused ingredients, you can make your recipe just as you normally would. Easy as that!
Dosage & Safety Tips
When it comes to cannabis edibles, proper dosing is crucial. The effects of edibles can take longer to kick in compared to smoking or vaping, so it’s easy to overdo it if you’re not careful. Start with a low dose, typically around 5-10 mg of THC, and wait at least 2 hours before considering more. This “start low, go slow” approach helps you avoid any unpleasant experiences and find the right dosage for you.
How to Calculate Dosage Per Serving
Calculating the dosage per serving of your homemade edibles can be straightforward:
- Know your cannabis potency: Determine the THC or CBD percentage of your cannabis strain.
- Calculate the total THC/CBD in your recipe: Multiply the weight of your cannabis (in grams) by its potency percentage.
Example: If you use 1 gram of cannabis with 20% THC, you have 200 mg of THC (1,000 mg x 0.20).
- Divide by the number of servings: If your recipe makes 20 brownies, each one will have approximately 10 mg of THC (200 mg ÷ 20 servings).
Safety Tips for Storing & Consuming Edibles
- Storage: Keep your edibles in a clearly labeled, childproof container. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Consumption: Always consume edibles in a safe and comfortable environment. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after consuming edibles, as their effects can be potent and long-lasting.
- Labeling: Clearly label your homemade edibles with dosage information and any other relevant details. This helps ensure that anyone consuming them knows what to expect and can dose appropriately.
Craft Your Perfect Edibles with Restore Dispensaries: Quality Medical Marijuana, Right Here in Pennsylvania
Making your own cannabis edibles can be a delightful way to enjoy the benefits of medical marijuana. By understanding the basics, choosing the right strain, and following proper dosing guidelines, you can create delicious and effective edibles right in your own kitchen. Remember to always start low and go slow, and to store your cannabis-infused ingredients and creations safely.
Ready to start your journey with cannabis edibles? Visit a Restore Dispensaries location near you and create your own delicious treats that are both healing and oh-so heavenly.Â
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
