No matter what you call it — cannabis, weed, hemp or marijuana — the industry is growing rapidly. Most people are aware of the different products made from organic plant matter, like edibles and CBD (oils containing cannabidiol) oils, but how do you get the highest quality and purest end product. The answer lies in a crucial procedure known as decarboxylation.
Decarboxylation, often abbreviated as "decarb," is a fundamental step in cannabis and hemp extraction. It plays a pivotal role in the production of both CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), transforming their molecules into their active states.
At its core, decarboxylation is a thermodynamic marvel that takes tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) and turns it into THC. Cannabis plants do not naturally produce THC. The organic plant material yields THCA, which lacks the psychoactive effect that THC delivers.
Only when subjected to heat does this chemical shift occur. Decarb removes a carboxyl group from these compounds and converts the acidic forms of CBD and THC into the potent cannabinoids we are familiar with to create products.
Decarbing ensures the complete transformation of cannabinoids, guaranteeing maximum potency. Activated THC and CBD offer therapeutic benefits, psychoactive effects, and a more consistent experience when cooking with cannabis.
The benefits of decarboxylation are profound and effective for both medicinal and recreational use helping to unlock the plant's full potential. Now, let's explore this process in more detail.
Before getting started with the decarb process proper preparation is crucial. Here are the steps to ensure your cannabis is ready for the process:
By following these steps, you'll ensure that your cannabis is properly prepared for decarboxylation, allowing for a more efficient activation of cannabinoids during the process.
There are many tips and how-to articles on decarbing Cannabis. As you may know, professional cannabis companies use controlled and standardized methods to decarboxylate cannabis.
Here are some common methods they may employ:
It's important to note that professional cannabis companies have the advantage of equipment, expertise, and quality control measures to ensure consistent and effective decarboxylation. The specific method chosen may vary depending on the company's scale, budget and desired product outcomes. The temperature, time, and other parameters can be adjusted based on the strain of cannabis and the desired cannabinoid profile for the final product.
Achieving the perfect results from decarbing cannabis requires attention to detail and precision. Use an accurate oven or decarbing device to maintain a consistent temperature around 240°F (115°C). Timing is crucial, so stick to the recommended decarbing duration of 30-45 minutes. Always seal your cannabis in an airtight container to preserve freshness and potency. Monitor the process closely to avoid over-decarboxylation.
Once you've successfully decarbed your cannabis, proper storage is essential to preserve its potency. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Some users prefer to vacuum-seal their decarbed cannabis to ensure freshness and longevity.
Properly storing your decarbed cannabis is crucial for maintaining its quality and potency over time. Here are some additional details to consider for storing decarbed cannabis:
Temperature and Humidity: Keep your decarbed cannabis in a cool and dry environment. Excessive heat and humidity can cause the degradation of cannabinoids and the growth of mold. The ideal temperature for storage is around 70°F (21°C), with a relative humidity level below 65%.
Airtight Container: Using an airtight container is essential to prevent the exposure of your decarbed cannabis to oxygen, which can lead to the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes. Mason jars, glass containers with rubber seals, or specialized storage containers designed for cannabis are good choices.
Darkness: Light can also degrade cannabinoids and terpenes. Therefore, store your decarbed cannabis in a dark place, away from direct sunlight or bright artificial light.
Vacuum-Sealing: While not necessary, vacuum-sealing your decarbed cannabis can provide an extra layer of protection against oxygen and moisture. Vacuum-sealed bags or containers remove air and create a sealed environment that helps preserve freshness.
Labeling: Properly label your storage container with the strain name, date of decarboxylation, and any other relevant information. This helps you keep track of the freshness and potency of your cannabis.
Avoid Freezing: While freezing can be used for long-term storage, it's generally not recommended for decarbed cannabis. Freezing can cause moisture to form when the cannabis is thawed, potentially leading to mold growth.
Divide into Smaller Portions: If you have a large batch of decarbed cannabis, consider dividing it into smaller portions before storage. This way, you can access just the amount you need without repeatedly exposing the entire stash to air and light.
Regular Inspection: Periodically check your stored decarbed cannabis for signs of mold, mildew, or degradation. If you notice any issues, remove the affected portion immediately.
Keep Away from Children and Pets: Always store your cannabis in a location that is out of reach of children and pets, and consider using childproof containers if necessary.
Properly storing decarbed cannabis can extend its shelf life and help maintain its desired potency and flavor profile. Following these storage guidelines will ensure that your cannabis remains fresh and ready for use in various recipes or consumption methods.
Whether you're using cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes, understanding the decarb process is important. Using high-quality, efficient and consistent systems, like CannaTrue™ EPD or CannaTrue™ SRS, can simplify the decarbing process. Make sure your cannabis is at its optimum potency and unleash its true potential with expert decarbing systems and techniques. Contact us to learn how you can take your cannabis journey to the next level!
Brad Kovach is an IT manager and PLC Software Engineer at CBG Biotech. He is a subject matter expert in extraction, purification and distillation processes and has worked at CBG for more than 25 years.