How do I decarboxylate my cannabis correctly?

Introduction

Before cannabis in edibles, oils, or tinctures takes effect, it must be activated—by heat. This process is called decarboxylation , or "decarb" for short. During this process, the inactive acids THCA and CBDA are converted into the active forms THC and CBD . Without this step, the effect remains weak or unpredictable. Here you'll learn how to understand the process chemically and put it into practice.

1. What happens during decarboxylation?

Cannabinoids are not yet active in fresh or dried cannabis. Only heat cleaves a carboxyl group (-COOH) from the molecule. This releases carbon dioxide and converts THCA to THC and CBDA to CBD . Now the molecules can bind to the corresponding receptors in the body – and only then do the well-known effects occur.

Temperature + time = activation of cannabinoids

When smoking, this happens automatically. For edibles or extracts, you have to control the process deliberately – otherwise your cannabis remains chemically "raw".

2. Why is decarboxylation important?

• Efficacy: Only activated cannabinoids are bioavailable.
• Dosage: Same temperature, same effect – no coincidences.
• Efficiency: You make optimal use of your material without any loss of active ingredient.

3. Common methods

3.1 – Oven method

1. Preheat oven to 100-110°C using convection .
2. Roughly chop the blossoms, do not grind them.
3. Place the cannabis in a heat-resistant container.
   
4. Heat the container for about 30–40 minutes.
5. Then allow to cool completely.

3.2 – Water bath / Sous-vide

To preserve terpenes and minimize odor: Pack cannabis airtight (e.g., in a heat-resistant bag or sealable glass jar) and heat in a water bath at 95–100 °C for 60 minutes. The result is a uniform and virtually odorless infusion.

4. Temperature and time values

Above 150 °C, THC oxidizes to CBN – this has a more sedative than psychoactive effect.

5. Common Mistakes

• Excessive heat destroys cannabinoids and aromas.
• Grinding too finely increases the risk of burning.
• Inaccurate oven temperature: Use a thermometer!
• Incorrect storage: After decarb, always store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

6. After decarb

The activated plant material can be directly infused in fat, oil, alcohol, or syrup to produce base products – for example, butter, coconut oil, or honey. This releases the active ingredients, allowing for precise dosing.

7. Conclusion

Decarboxylation is the crucial step between plant and effect. It requires some patience, but not a laboratory. With controlled temperature and clean procedures, you'll achieve reproducible, effective results – whether you're working in medicine or simply want to get the most out of your material.

Further reading: Dosage correctly – how to find your strength

© 2025 Max Buechse | Science · Cuisine · Cannabis