Discover how you can make your own high-quality THC oil / cannabis oil at home from your cannabis flowers, and learn exactly what cannabis oil is at the same time. Our guide will lead you safely through the preparation and THC extraction process, explains the THC oil effects, and provides important safety tips.
Contents:
General information about cannabis oil
- What is THC cannabis oil?
- How is THC oil made?
- Decarboxylation
Making your own THC cannabis oil
- How can I extract cannabis flowers?
- The 2 methods of production
- Calculating the concentration
- Processing and bottling, shelf life & storage of THC cannabis oil
Use of cannabis drops
Cannabis oil from the pharmacy
General information about cannabis oil
What is THC cannabis oil?
THC cannabis oil is an extract from the cannabis plant that contains a high level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive substance responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis. It is obtained by extracting cannabinoids from the plant and then mixing them with a carrier oil such as olive or hemp oil. THC cannabis oil is often used in medicine, as it possesses potential pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety properties. In addition to its therapeutic applications, it is also valued for its ability to relieve nausea and stimulate appetite, especially in patients with severe illnesses.
How is THC cannabis oil produced?
THC-containing cannabis oil is produced by extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis plant (usually by using a solvent such as alcohol or CO₂) and then mixing them with a carrier oil or alcohol to create a "cannabis oil with THC" or "cannabis drops with THC."
Decarboxylation of cannabis flowers & cannabis leaves - The often-forgotten step
What does "decarboxylation" mean?
Decarboxylation is a chemical process in which the acid forms of cannabinoids, such as THCA or CBDA, are converted into their active forms, THC and CBD, through heating. This step is crucial for releasing the psychoactive and therapeutic effects of the cannabinoids, as THCA and CBDA themselves are not psychoactive. While decarboxylation happens automatically when smoking cannabis, it must be performed intentionally via heat for the production of edibles, oils, or tinctures. Non-decarboxylated cannabis contains predominantly THCA and CBDA, which are hardly psychoactive and therefore do not achieve the same effect as THC and CBD. That is why decarboxylation is essential if you want to utilize the full effect of the cannabis.
This step should be performed before the extraction of the flowers to ensure that the finished oil already contains active cannabinoids. Subsequent decarboxylation of the oil is also possible, but less efficient and can impair the quality of the end product. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully decarboxylate the flowers and leaves before extraction to achieve an optimal result.
What you need for decarboxylation
An oven, a baking tray, a sheet of parchment paper, your cannabis flowers & cannabis leaves, and optionally aluminum foil.
How you can decarboxylate your cannabis flowers:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to a temperature of approximately 105–120°C. The ideal temperature may vary depending on how moist the flowers are or which strain is used. Too high a temperature can destroy the valuable terpenes and cannabinoids.
- Crushing the flowers and leaves: Roughly crush the cannabis flowers and cannabis leaves with your hands or a grinder. They do not need to be ground too finely, as this increases the surface area and can lead to a loss of terpenes.
- Lining the baking tray: Line the baking tray with parchment paper. Distribute the crushed cannabis flowers and cannabis leaves evenly on the parchment paper. Make sure the flowers are not lying on top of each other to ensure uniform decarboxylation.
- Baking: Optionally cover the flowers with aluminum foil to better preserve the terpenes. Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and let the cannabis flowers bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. You might notice a slight smell.
- Letting it cool down: After the time has passed, carefully take the baking tray out of the oven and let the decarboxylated flowers cool down completely. The flowers should now have a somewhat darker color.
- Usage: The now-decarboxylated cannabis flowers can be used for the production of cannabis butter, oils, tinctures, or directly for the preparation of edible cannabis products.
Important notes:
Take care not to burn the cannabis flowers during the decarboxylation process, as this can significantly impair their quality and effectiveness. The exact temperature and time can vary depending on the type of oven and the moisture content of the cannabis flowers, so some experimentation might be required to achieve the best results. Decarboxylation can cause a strong odor. Ensure that you work in a well-ventilated area or take measures to minimize the smell if this is a concern.
Making your own cannabis oil - Instructions for you
How can I extract cannabis flowers?
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CO₂ extraction
In this method, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is used under high pressure and low temperature to extract the cannabinoids from the plant. This method is very efficient and produces a pure, highly concentrated extract without solvent residues. First, crush the cannabis roughly. The crushed material is then put into a special CO₂ extraction machine that operates under high pressure and low temperature. Liquid CO₂ from a CO₂ tank is pressed through the plant material, which extracts the cannabinoids and terpenes. A pressure and temperature controller monitors the exact conditions to ensure optimal extraction. After extraction, the CO₂ is evaporated, and the pure concentrate remains in a collection container. This concentrate can be cleaned through a filtration system and subsequently filled into dropper bottles or other containers. CO₂ extraction requires special equipment that is generally not suitable for home use. -
Alcohol or ethanol extraction
Ethanol (drinking alcohol) is used as a solvent to extract the cannabinoids. It is a common and cost-effective method that can process large quantities quickly. The alcohol is evaporated after extraction to obtain the pure plant extract. Roughly crush the cannabis flowers and leaves, then place the crushed cannabis into one of the glass containers and pour the alcohol over it so that all pieces are covered. Let it sit for about a week and shake the mixture daily. After a week, filter the mixture into the second glass container using a coffee filter or a fine sieve. The goal is to remove all solid components. The alcohol must now be evaporated. This should be done in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or sparks, as alcohol vapors are highly flammable. Use an extractor/distiller to gently heat the alcohol until it evaporates and only the THC extract remains. -
Oil extraction (beginner variant)
Plant oils such as olive, coconut, or hemp oil are heated and mixed with the cannabis flowers to extract the cannabinoids. This method is simple and safe but less efficient, as the concentration of THC and other cannabinoids is lower. For this, crush your cannabis flowers and leaves roughly as in the alcohol method. Then add the crushed cannabis and the carrier oil (in a 1:10 ratio) to a slow cooker, saucepan, or stovetop. Heat the mixture on a low setting for several hours so that the THC passes into the oil without burning the cannabis. (Stir occasionally.) Then filter the mixture through a coffee filter or a fine sieve to remove all solid components, fill the THC oil into dropper bottles or other small containers, and you have the finished end product. -
Butane extraction (BHO)
Here, butane gas is used to extract the cannabinoids. This method can produce very potent concentrates, but is also riskier because butane is highly flammable. The resulting concentrate is referred to as "Butane Hash Oil" (BHO). First, crush the cannabis roughly and place it in a special extraction tube. Subsequently, butane gas is pressed through the tube, which dissolves the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. The butane effectively dissolves the active ingredients, and the mixture flows into a collection container. There, the butane is evaporated, usually through heating or vacuum evaporation, so that only the highly concentrated cannabis extract remains. The BHO is subsequently filtered to remove impurities and kept in small containers for later use. This method requires careful safety precautions, as butane is highly flammable. -
Dry sifting
This method is purely mechanical and uses sieves to separate the trichomes (resin glands) from the cannabis flowers. The resulting product is kief, a type of concentrated cannabis that can be pressed further into hashish. With the dry sifting method, cannabis is shaken through fine sieves to separate the trichomes—the resin-rich glands on the flowers—from the plant materials. First, crush the cannabis flowers and leaves and put them into one or more sieves with different mesh sizes. By gently shaking or rubbing on the sieves, the trichomes detach and fall through the mesh, while the remaining plant material stays behind on the sieve. The collected resin, also known as kief, can be processed further or used directly. Dry sifting is a simple and solvent-free method that is especially suitable for the production of high-quality hashish. -
Solvent-free extraction (Rosin press)
Through heat and pressure, the cannabinoids and terpenes are pressed directly out of the flowers without the use of chemical solvents. This method is safe and simple, but more suitable for smaller quantities. With the rosin press method, cannabis buds or kief are pressed between two heated plates to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. First, crush the cannabis and place it in heat-resistant paper or a filter bag. Then, this material is placed in the rosin press, where it is pressed with pressure and heat at about 90 to 120 degrees Celsius. Under this pressure and heat, the resin liquefies, which is then squeezed out and can be collected on a surface. The result is a pure, solvent-free extract called rosin. This method is safe, simple, and well-suited for the production of highly pure cannabis oil or resin.
Each extraction method has its own advantages: CO₂ extraction offers high purity and efficiency, butane extraction (BHO) can produce very potent concentrates, dry sifting is simple and solvent-free, and the rosin press is safe and solvent-free. The best method depends on your specific requirements, such as purity, potency, or safety.
The extraction of THC from cannabis requires caution and should be carried out while observing all legal frameworks!!!
How you can then mix your THC cannabis oil yourself
To make your THC cannabis oil yourself, there are two methods: The first and simple method consists of heating cannabis directly with a carrier oil to extract the cannabinoids. The second variant is to produce your cannabis extract through a more intensive method like CO₂ or butane extraction and then mix this extract with oil to obtain a more highly concentrated THC cannabis oil.
The difference lies in the fact that the oil method requires less effort and equipment, while the second method yields a more potent end product but is more complex to produce.
Necessary equipment & preparation:
- Cannabis flowers & cannabis leaves or a cannabis flower extract
- A carrier liquid for mixing (hemp seed oil, coconut oil, olive oil, or pharmaceutical-grade alcohol)
- Coffee filter or a fine sieve
- 2 large glass containers
- A stovetop or a slow cooker, oven
- Silicone spatula or spoon
- Syringe (for storing the THC extract)
- Digital scale for weighing
- Droppers, bottles, or other small sealable containers for storing the end product
- Room with little UV light
- Avoid moisture
- Minimize air: Close the container tightly after every use. Oxygen can reduce the quality of the cannabis oil over time.
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The oil variant (THC oil with approx. 1 - 5% THC content)
To make THC cannabis oil yourself using the oil extraction method, crush the cannabis flowers and place them in a heat-resistant glass container with carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil). Heat the mixture gently on a low setting for several hours to allow the THC to pass into the oil. Stir occasionally and subsequently filter the oil to remove the solid components. Unlike other methods such as CO₂ or butane extraction, you do not need to decarboxylate the cannabis for oil extraction, as the heat during extraction automatically takes care of this process. This method is relatively simple and safe, but less efficient, and the end product has a lower concentration than with more complex extraction methods.
How it's done:
To produce THC oil by directly steeping cannabis flowers in oil, you begin with the decarboxylation of the flowers. Preheat the oven to 115-120 °C and spread the cannabis flowers out on a baking tray. Leave them in the oven for about 30-40 minutes so that the THCA converts into THC.
After cooling, coarsely grind the flowers and place them in a glass jar. Pour enough carrier oil (e.g., olive oil or MCT oil) over them so that the flowers are completely covered. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a water bath or a slow cooker. Gently heat the oil to about 60-70 °C (140-158 °F) for 2-3 hours without letting it get too hot, shaking the jar occasionally. Once the oil has cooled, pour it through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a glass bottle to remove the plant material. The oil now has a THC content of approximately 1-5%, depending on the flowers and the extraction duration. Store the oil in a cool, dark place and shake it well before use to ensure the active ingredients are evenly distributed.
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The Extract Variant (THC Oil / THC Drops with up to 70% THC)
To produce THC cannabis oil, you can also use a method where you first prepare your cannabis extract (as described above) and then mix it with a carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or hemp oil. This extract method yields a more concentrated THC oil because you can control the extraction process more intensely, but it is more complex than direct oil extraction.
How it's done:
Carefully load the concentrate into one or more catheter syringes and then seal them with the appropriate plastic cap; this makes it easier to dose the extract later on. Ideally, keep the syringes in the refrigerator, which should help keep the cannabis extract stable. If you notice that the THC extract in the syringe has become too firm, briefly warm the syringe with the extract under running warm water before using it.
Calculating THC Concentration in Cannabis Tincture
To create a cannabis tincture in alcohol or oil yourself from THC extract and to produce a tincture with a concentration of 10% THC, follow these steps. It is important to measure precisely and work cleanly to ensure consistent quality and effect.
The average THC content in an extract made from cannabis flowers with alcohol varies greatly depending on the quality of the flowers used and the extraction method. In general, however, the THC content in such extracts is between 50% and 70%. For a 10% THC tincture and a target volume of 100 ml, you need 10 ml of pure THC. If your extract has a purity of, for example, 60% THC, you must calculate how much of this extract you need.
For example, to obtain a THC oil with 10% THC per 100 ml, we need 10 g of pure THC (since 10% of 100 ml = 10 g). If your cannabis extract has a THC content of 60%, 1 g of this extract contains 0.6 g (600 mg) of THC. Therefore, to reach the required 10 g of THC, you need about 16.67 g of the extract.
This amount results from the calculation:
10g THC divided by 0.6 (the THC content of your extract) results in 16.67 g of extract (10g : 0.6g = 16.67g). Subsequently, mix this extract with 83.33 ml of a carrier oil so that the total volume is 100 ml and the finished oil has a THC concentration of 10%. Ensure that everything is well mixed so that the tincture becomes homogeneous.
Note: To calculate the exact THC concentration in a cannabis extract or oil, it is important to analyze the extract beforehand or to examine a sample of the finished oil. Without a precise evaluation of the cannabinoid levels, it is almost impossible to reliably determine the actual THC concentration.
Analyzing the extract before further processing offers the advantage of knowing the exact amount of THC, thereby allowing for better control of the dosage. Alternatively, a sample of the finished oil can be used to calculate the THC concentration after extraction. Both methods ensure that the final product possesses the desired properties and exhibits consistent quality.
Shelf Life & Storage:
General rule of thumb: When stored properly, THC oil can generally last for 1 to 2 years. However, potency may decrease over time.
Regular inspection: It is advisable to check the condition of the THC oil from time to time. Look for color changes, sediment formation, or an altered odor as signs that the quality of the cannabis tincture may have diminished.
Please note: This guide is purely informative. The production and possession of THC oil are illegal in many countries and can result in serious legal consequences.
Application of Cannabis Drops
Cannabis oil for back pain could, for example, be considered as an alternative treatment. The active ingredients in cannabis, especially THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain regulation.
Application examples:
- Topical: Cannabis oil can be applied directly to the affected area.
- Oral: Intake of tinctures or capsules.
Important considerations beforehand:
When using THC-containing cannabis oils, there are some important considerations you should keep in mind. First, dosage is crucial, as THC-containing oils can be very potent, and a dose that is too high can cause unwanted side effects such as anxiety, dizziness, or nausea. It is advisable to start with a low dose and increase it slowly to test your individual tolerance.
The method of application also plays a role. THC oils can be taken sublingually, i.e., under the tongue, which leads to rapid absorption and effect. Alternatively, the oil can also be used in food or drinks, with the effect then occurring with a delay and potentially lasting longer.
Furthermore, you should consider the legal situation, as THC-containing products are strictly regulated in many countries. Possession and use may be illegal, depending on the region in which you live. Therefore, inform yourself about local laws before using such a product.
Do not forget about the storage of the oil. THC-containing cannabis oils should be stored in a cool, dark, and airtight place to preserve their efficacy and prevent the decomposition of the active ingredients.
Finally, it is important to consider possible interactions with other medications or health conditions. When in doubt, consult a doctor before using THC-containing cannabis oils, especially if you take medication regularly or suffer from a chronic illness.
Common side effects:
- Fatigue: Cannabis can have a sedative effect, which can be a hindrance for daily activities.
- Dizziness: THC can cause dizziness, especially in higher doses.
- Dry mouth: The inhibition of saliva production is a known effect.
- Altered perception: Especially with products with a higher THC content, changes in perception can occur.
- Anxiety or paranoia: Cannabis can induce anxiety or paranoia in some people.
- Interactions with other medications: Cannabis can have interactions with other medications, which can influence the effect of these drugs.
Important notes:
Individual reactions: The reaction to cannabis can vary greatly from person to person.
Monitoring: If side effects occur, the use should be monitored or the dose adjusted.
Long-term effects: The long-term effects of cannabis are still the subject of scientific research.
It is important to inform yourself about the possible side effects and risks and to seek medical advice in case of uncertainty or serious symptoms.
Cannabis oil from the pharmacy? That is how it is possible!
To obtain cannabis oil through a pharmacy, you must follow certain steps in many countries, including Germany. First, you arrange an appointment with a doctor who has experience with medical cannabis. This doctor will assess whether cannabis oil is suitable for your medical situation. The doctor will write a medical justification and, if appropriate, issue a prescription. With this prescription, you go to a pharmacy that stocks medical cannabis. Please note that not all pharmacies have the oil in stock, so an order might be necessary. In some countries, health insurance covers the costs for medical cannabis in whole or in part. In Germany, statutory health insurance can cover the costs under certain conditions. Clarify this with your health insurance provider in advance.
Important notes: Legal requirements can vary depending on the country, and medical cannabis is subject to strict regulations. Ensure that you handle the entire process through licensed doctors and pharmacies to guarantee the quality and safety of the cannabis oil.
Conclusion:
Even though cannabis is legal in Germany, one should not forget the THC limits for driving!
When handling cannabis in road traffic, new regulations and limits were introduced that must be observed. Since August 2024, a new limit for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in road traffic has been in effect, which has been set at 3.5 nanograms per milliliter of blood serum. This value is equivalent to an alcohol limit of 0.02% (0.2 per mille).[1][2] This means that operating a vehicle under the influence of cannabis is legally regulated, as long as this limit is not exceeded.
However, the detectability of THC in the blood can vary greatly, depending on several factors such as the amount consumed, the frequency of consumption, and individual metabolic characteristics. In general, THC can remain detectable in blood serum for up to several days for occasional users and several weeks for regular users. Therefore, it is difficult to determine a generally applicable waiting time after consumption before one can safely participate in road traffic again.[2] For medically prescribed cannabis, there are certain exceptions. Patients who use cannabis for medical reasons may not have to face the same legal consequences as those who consume cannabis without a prescription. However, it is important that affected patients discuss their consumption and their ability to drive with their doctor and consider transportation alternatives if necessary.[1]
In summary, it is crucial for all road users to be aware of the new legal regulations and, in particular, to observe the limit for THC. For medically prescribed cannabis, patients should clarify the individual effects on their driving ability in dialogue with their treating physician.
Links:
https://www.anwalt.de/rechtstipps/neuer-thc-grenzwert-kiffen-und-fahren-ab-august-2024-erlaubt-230689.html
https://www.adac.de/news/cannabis-am-steuer/
