Cannabis, also called marijuana, pot, and weed, among other names, is a collective name for a group of plants with relaxing and calming effects.
These plants are well known for their scientifically proven medical purposes. They can be consumed in different ways, including smoking, vaping, and as oil extracts.
However, some people prefer it mixed with their typical food and drinks. These are called cannabis edibles.
Irrespective of your preferred consumption method, it is crucial you only purchase high-quality marijuana from a reputable Cannabis Dispensary in your area.
Cannabis edibles can treat chronic pain, anxiety, seizure, and cancer-related seizures. This consumption method does not expose individuals to the dangers of smoking.
Raw cannabis vs. cannabis edibles
If you wonder if it is safe to consume raw cannabis, the simple answer is Yes. The major drawback with cannabis consumed raw is that it has a lesser effect than cannabis-based products like cannabis edibles.
Raw cannabis contains tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) compounds. When exposed to heat, the compounds will undergo decarboxylation to convert into active forms, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively.
It takes a longer time for the body to absorb the compounds in edibles, so they usually last longer in the body.
The effect may take 30 minutes to two hours to kick in and about four hours to peak, while the effect can last up to 12 hours.
Cooking cannabis at home can help you consume this medicinal plant however you prefer.
Meanwhile, it is essential to avoid the following mistakes if you are trying any cannabis edibles recipes:
1. Not choosing the right strain
As a first-time cannabis user, you need to understand not all marijuana is the same. There are different strains of cannabis, and they have different effects.
Generally, you will find three main strains in most dispensaries – indica, sativa, and hybrid. Indica has a relaxing effect on its users; sativa has a more energizing effect; and hybrid tends to combine the two effects.
The strain you choose to infuse in your edibles will determine the kind of effect you get.
Another thing to consider is the flavor profile of the cannabis. Two organic elements – flavonoids and terpenes – are responsible for the flavors and smells of cannabis.
Ensure the natural flavor of the marijuana you intend to infuse into your edible matches the ingredients in your recipe.
2. Over grinding
Finely grinding your cannabis may seem like an excellent method to ensure it perfectly blends with other ingredients in your recipe. However, this is not a suitable preparation method for edibles.
The plant’s resinous trichomes are on the buds and leaves, not in them. Trichomes contain THC, CBD, and other active medicinal compounds in the flower.
Overgrinding will result in fewer trichomes which may reduce the effect of the purchased marijuana. It can also affect the taste of your edible as it is likely to give an herbal flavor, which you might not like in a chocolate chip cookie, for instance.
3. Skipping decarboxylation
Cannabutter is usually used to make cannabis edibles. It is a combination of cannabis and butter.
Decarboxylation is required for the preparation of a good cannabutter. It is a process used to activate the psychoactive compounds in a cannabis plant. It occurs through heat.
Marijuana contains THCA, which will not get you high. When it is adequately heated, the THCA is converted to THC, which can be absorbed by the body and get you high.
The consumption of edibles does not involve heat, unlike smoking and vaping, hence the need for decarboxylation to activate the weed in the edible before consumption.
Before adding cannabis to your recipe, it needs to be first decarboxylated. This is done by grinding the cannabis and cooking it at a temperature of over 200℉ for about one hour, depending on the heat.
4. High heat
Even though you need high heat for cannabis decarboxylation, it does not mean it should be too high. Cooking cannabis at a temperature too high can break down and degrade its constituents, resulting in a less potent effect.
Also, avoid overcooking the cannabis as it may diminish the potency and affect the taste of the final edible. THC is likely to burn off completely at 390℉.
5. Poor handling and preparation
Every process is vital during cannabis edibles preparation. Any mistake at a stage will eventually affect the final edible.
For instance, to prepare a good cannabutter, the ratio of cannabis to butter should be 1:1. For every cup of butter, you should add 7-10 grams of cannabis. By doing this, you will be able to use every portion of the flower and achieve the right potency.
Not following the recipe can also be a problem. Such action can result in preparing an overdosed edible.