Guide to Making THC Tinctures: A Comprehensive Guide for Optimal Effects

Infused oils and tinctures are a common method for incorporating THC into your routine for both medicinal and recreational use. This guide will walk you through the process of making THC tinctures from start to finish, ensuring you get the best results.

Understanding the Process

The extraction of cannabis into tinctures is simpler than it might seem. Cannabis buds, leaves, hash, or kief are soaked in alcohol until they infuse. The alcohol extracts terpenes and phytocannabinoids, leaving a high-concentration liquid. This article will explore four methods: a cold method, a warm method, a hot method, and a vegetable method.

Decarboxylation: The First Step

Before infusing your cannabis, you need to decarboxylate it. This process converts THC-acid (THCA) into THC, the psychoactive compound. To decarboxylate, preheat your oven to 100°C (212°F), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and spread out your ground cannabis in a thin, even layer. Bake for 90 minutes. This step is crucial for activating the THC, making your tincture effective.

Cold Extraction Method

The cold method is suitable for those who don't want to heat their cannabis. You will need:

A quart of high-proof alcohol (Everclear or 151 proof rum) A 1 quart mason jar Cheesecloth or a mesh strainer A bowl

Place the ground cannabis in the mason jar, fill with alcohol, and close tightly. Shake for two minutes, then place the jar in the freezer for 2-5 days. Shake once a day if you leave it for a longer period to increase potency. Once done, strain with cheesecloth or a mesh strainer into a bowl.

Warm Extraction Method

The warm method provides a more potent result in about 30-60 days. For this method:

A quart of decarboxylated cannabis High-proof alcohol (Everclear or 151 proof rum) A 1 quart mason jar An uncapped mason jar A saucepan A cooking thermometer Cheesecloth or a mesh strainer A bowl

Mix the cannabis and alcohol in the jar, then place the uncapped jar in a saucepan of simmering water for 20 minutes. Maintain the temperature between 70°C and 76°C (160°F to 170°F). Once done, let it cool for 30 minutes before straining.

Hot Extraction Method

The hot method is the fastest and yields the most potent results. You will need:

1/8 ounce of decarboxylated cannabis 2 ounces of high-proof alcohol A 1 pint mason jar A saucepan A cooking thermometer Cheesecloth or a mesh strainer A bowl

Mix cannabis and alcohol in the jar, then place in a saucepan with water and bring to a low boil for 20 minutes, ensuring the temperature stays between 70°C and 76°C (160°F to 170°F). Strain the mixture when done.

Vegetable Method

For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, the vegetable glycerin method can be used, though it is less effective. The process is:

1/2 ounce of decarboxylated cannabis 2 cups of vegetable glycerin A 1 quart mason jar A slow cooker A towel Cheesecloth or a mesh strainer A bowl

Combine the cannabis and glycerin in the jar, shake for 2 minutes, and place in the slow cooker on low for 24 hours. Stir every 3 hours for a total of 8 times. Once done, strain with cheesecloth or a mesh strainer into a bowl.

Storing and Using Your Tincture

Store your tincture in a dark, dropper bottle in the refrigerator. The dark glass protects the liquid from sunlight and helps preserve its potency. Dose sparingly (half a pea-sized amount) and adjust based on your preferred effect. Choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences!