Introduction
Table of Contents
The legal acceptance of cannabis in some regions has led to the increased curiosity of individuals as to what options are available. Among these options is the THC, scientifically known as tetrahydrocannabinol. This article will discuss what THC is, what THC oil is, how to extract THC oil and some benefits of THC oil.
What is THC?
THC, otherwise known as tetrahydrocannabinol, is a natural compound found in cannabis plants. It is the primary psychoactive, mind-altering compound that cannabis consumers derive or get into their body system when they smoke cannabis, vape it, brew it as tea, or mix it with food. THC has a molecular structure of; 2 oxygen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and 30 hydrogen atoms. It is chemically equivalent to the endocannabinoids in the human body. Due to its chemical structure, THC can interact with the cannabinoid receptors in the body system.
What is THC Oil?
THC oil is a fluid formula produced by using various extraction methods to pull resins or concentrates from cannabis plants. THC oil can be produced using different available oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter. THC oil may contain a higher level of THC than regular cannabis flower, depending on the extraction method.
How to Extract THC Oil from Cannabis
It is no doubt that the cannabis industry has experienced some level of growth. And with this growth comes an increased understanding of THC extraction. In fact, it has transformed into a field of science filled with many experts. As of now, there are various techniques for extracting THC oil. Let’s discuss some of them, starting with the simplest.
Direct Extraction
• Mash the dry cannabis plant into tiny pieces. Spread the mashed pieces on a baking sheet and heat in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Pour one or more cups of oil inside the pot depending on the quantity of THC oil needed and heat until the oil melts.
• Add 7-10 grams of mashed cannabis to one cup of melted oil and stir gently.
• Apply low heat and continue heating for 30 to 60 minutes (stir occasionally). If available, use a temperature reader to check and maintain the oil temperature at below 200°F.
• After 60 minutes, turn off the cooker and filter out the oil from the cannabis fibers with a cheesecloth into a glass bowl. The oil will be hot, so be careful and squeeze gently. On another note, you can leave the cannabis fibers in the oil (Fibers help scrub the digestive system).
• The strained oil has become THC oil and is ready to be used. Store your THC oil in a glass container with a tight lid and keep it in a cool place.
Water Extraction
For water extraction, fill your cooking pot with water using a desired measurement based on the quantity of oil you need and the cannabis plant available. After that place, the cannabis plant in your water-filled cooking pot and butter or oil, then gently heat it on a cooker. Once it starts bubbling at the sides (before it reaches a full boil), lower the heat and put a heat distributor between the burner and the pot, then cover the pot and cook for a recommended period of 18 hours to achieve a full extraction. But if 18 hours is not possible, cook for as long as you can. After the cooking is done, separate the THC oil from the water and plant fibers with a good filter such as a French coffee press or something similar. Alternatively, you can perform a cold-press process. To do this, filter out the cannabis plant and leave the liquid in the pot to cool down. When it has cooled down, place the pot inside the refrigerator to solidify the THC oil. Once it solidifies, carefully bring out the solidified fat and discard the water. Voila! Your THC oil is ready.
Aside from listed above, here are some new popular extraction techniques:
- Direct Extraction Method:
- This involves mashing dry cannabis plant into small pieces and heating them in the oven. Then, heat a chosen oil like coconut or olive oil, add the cannabis, and stir gently while maintaining a low temperature. After about an hour, use a cheesecloth to filter the oil from the cannabis fibers. Your THC oil is now ready for use.
- Water Extraction Method:
- Fill a cooking pot with water, cannabis plant, and butter or oil. Heat the mixture until it starts bubbling, then simmer for up to 18 hours. After cooking, separate the THC oil from the water and plant fibers using a filter, such as a French coffee press. Another option is to cool the mixture in the fridge, allowing the THC oil to solidify for easy removal.
- Decarboxylation and Infusion:
- Decarboxylation is essential to activate THC. It involves heating ground cannabis on a baking tray in the oven. Then, mix the decarboxylated cannabis with oil and heat it using a slow cooker, double boiler, or saucepan for several hours at low temperature. Finally, strain the mixture to remove the plant material, leaving you with infused oil.
- Automated Extraction Methods:
- Machines like the Source Turbo extractor make the process easier and safer. These devices use a vacuum to remove the solvent from the tincture, leaving behind THC oil.
- Other Extraction Techniques:
- Isopropyl Oil Extraction: Soaking dried cannabis flowers in isopropyl alcohol and then evaporating the solvent leaves behind THC oil.
- CO2 Oil Extraction: A non-toxic method using supercritical CO2 through cannabis buds, resulting in a toxin-free liquid containing trichomes and terpenes.
Benefits Of THC Oil
THC oil reduces acne, wrinkles, and fine lines and also helps to balance natural skin oils. It can be used as an analgesic; that is, it can be used to reduce pain.
THC oil can as well be consumed in different ways. It can be consumed through vaping or dabbing, and with the correct measurement, can be added to meals. You can spread it on a slice of bread, use it for baking or swallow it (just like licking honey). It takes time to feel the THC effect present in THC oil, so be careful not to overdose.
Conclusion
THC oil is another way of enjoying cannabis, especially when used responsibly. It is an excellent alternative for those who don’t want to smoke cannabis for one or a few couple reasons. This article has discussed THC oil, its benefits, and how to extract THC oil at home. Take your time to read through the extraction process above and make your THC oil.
Also, read
How To Make Edibles With Thc Oil ‘
How To Order Thc Edibles Online ‘