Benefits of Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil

Cannabis tinctures, especially those made with olive oil, offer several advantages:

Healthier Alternative: Unlike smoking, tinctures provide a smoke-free way to consume cannabis, making them suitable for all ages.
Discreet Usage: They can be easily taken without drawing attention, ideal for public settings.
Versatile Applications: You can use cannabis-infused olive oil in cooking, baking, or even as a topical treatment.

Ingredients

2 cups of olive oil (extra virgin is preferred for its health benefits)
1 ounce of cannabis (choose your preferred strain)

Equipment

Oven: For decarboxylating cannabis
Crockpot or slow cooker: For infusing the oil
Mason jars: To hold the mixture
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth: To filter out the plant material
Digital thermometer: To monitor the temperature during infusion

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

The first step in making cannabis-infused olive oil is to activate the cannabinoids in your cannabis. This process, known as decarboxylation, involves heating the cannabis at a low temperature to convert THCA into THC, which is the psychoactive component.

Preheat your oven to 240-250°F (115-121°C).
Break up the cannabis flowers into smaller pieces and spread them evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even heating.
Allow the cannabis to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Combine Olive Oil and Cannabis

Now that your cannabis is decarboxylated, it’s time to combine it with olive oil.

Place the decarboxylated cannabis into two pint-sized mason jars.
Pour 2 cups of olive oil into the jars, leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Seal the jars, but don’t tighten them completely to allow steam to escape.

Step 3: Prepare Your Crockpot

Using a crockpot is an excellent way to maintain a low and consistent temperature during the infusion process.

Place a dishcloth at the bottom of the crockpot to prevent the jars from cracking.
Fill the crockpot with enough water to cover the jars.
Set the crockpot to high until the water reaches 185°F, then switch to low.

Step 4: Infuse the Oil

Carefully place the mason jars into the crockpot and cover it with a lid.
Allow the mixture to infuse for 4 hours, keeping an eye on the temperature to ensure it doesn’t exceed 200°F (93°C).

Step 5: Strain the Oil

Once the infusion time is complete, it’s time to filter out the plant material.

Carefully remove the jars from the crockpot and let them cool slightly.
Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the oil into a clean container, discarding the leftover cannabis material.
Store your cannabis-infused olive oil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It should last for at least 60 days.

Cooking: Use your tincture as a salad dressing, drizzle over vegetables, or as a finishing oil for grilled meats. Remember to keep the temperature below 350°F (175°C) to preserve its beneficial compounds.
Storage: If stored in the refrigerator, the oil may solidify. It will return to liquid form at room temperature.
Dosage: Start with a small amount when using your infused oil, especially if you are new to cannabis consumption, to gauge its effects.

Making a cannabis-infused olive oil tincture is a simple and rewarding process that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you're looking to enhance your meals with the flavors of cannabis or explore its potential health benefits, this tincture can be a valuable addition to your pantry. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a versatile oil that elevates your cooking and provides a unique way to enjoy cannabis. Happy infusing!