Health Benefits

Coconut oil is rich in saturated fats, which are excellent for binding cannabinoids like THC and CBD. This high fat content allows for better absorption of these compounds, making coconut oil a more effective carrier than other oils. For instance, while olive oil contains less than 20% saturated fat, coconut oil boasts over 80%, making it a preferred choice for cannabis infusion (Leafly).

Dietary Considerations

Coconut oil is vegan and dairy-free, making it an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions or lactose intolerance. This versatility allows it to be used in a variety of recipes, from baked goods to savory dishes (MMTC).

Ingredients Needed

1 cup coconut oil (unrefined for flavor or refined for a neutral taste)
7-14 grams of cannabis (ground)
Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Mason jar or airtight container
Strainer or cheesecloth
Scale (for measuring cannabis)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

Decarboxylation is crucial for activating THC and CBD in cannabis. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread your ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 30-45 minutes. This process transforms THCA into THC, making it psychoactive and effective (Infuse Anything with this Simple Cannabis Coconut Oil Recipe).

Step 2: Combine Coconut Oil and Cannabis

Once cooled, place the decarboxylated cannabis in a mason jar. Add 1 cup of coconut oil and stir gently. Seal the jar, ensuring it’s not too tight to allow for expansion during heating (Ultimate Cannabis Coconut Oil Recipe).

Step 3: Infuse the Oil

You can use a slow cooker or a double boiler for this step:

Slow Cooker Method: Place the sealed mason jar in a slow cooker filled with water, ensuring the water covers the jar. Set the cooker to low and let it simmer for 2-6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Double Boiler Method: Alternatively, place the jar in a double boiler setup, allowing the oil to simmer gently for the same duration (Leafly).

Step 4: Strain the Mixture

After infusing, let the jar cool. Set a strainer lined with cheesecloth over a clean bowl or jar. Pour the oil through the strainer to separate the plant material from the oil. Gently squeeze the cheesecloth to extract as much oil as possible without introducing excess chlorophyll, which can affect the flavor (Infuse Anything with this Simple Cannabis Coconut Oil Recipe).

Step 5: Store Your Cannabis Coconut Oil

Transfer the strained oil into a clean, airtight container. Store it in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cannabis coconut oil can last for up to six months (MMTC).

What Can You Do with Cannabis Coconut Oil?

Cannabis coconut oil is incredibly versatile. You can use it in:

Baking and cooking, replacing butter or other oils.
Adding to coffee or tea for an infused beverage.
Topical applications for pain relief.
Homemade edibles like brownies or gummies (Cooking with Cannabis: Coconut Oil Recipe - MMTC).

Do I Need to Decarb My Cannabis?

Yes, decarboxylation is essential for activating the cannabinoids in your cannabis, making them effective when infused into the oil (Leafly).

How Do I Calculate Dosage?

To calculate the dosage, know the THC percentage of your cannabis. For example, if using cannabis with 15% THC, each gram contains approximately 150 mg of THC. Divide the total THC by the number of servings to determine the dosage per serving (MMTC).

Making cannabis coconut oil is a simple and rewarding process that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you're looking to create potent edibles or topical remedies, this versatile oil serves as an excellent base. With its health benefits and ease of use, coconut oil is an ideal choice for anyone interested in cannabis-infused cooking. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and discovering the many ways to incorporate cannabis into your diet!