How to Cook With Cannabis Oil
Cooking with cannabis oil means using an activated, THC-infused oil as the fat in a recipe. You can substitute it for butter, vegetable oil, or olive oil in most dishes. The main rules are keep heat low, dose each serving, and wait before eating more. This guide covers prerequisites, steps, tips, and storage.
how to use cannabis oil for pain
Key Facts About Cannabis Oil
Cannabis oil for cooking is often sold as an infused oil or tincture that has been decarboxylated, meaning the THCA has been converted to THC. If you make your own oil from raw flower, you must decarboxylate the flower first. Most commercial oils list total THC per milliliter or per package. That number is what you use to calculate dose. Heat above 300°F (149°C) can degrade THC, so low-temperature cooking is best.
cannabis oil drops vs capsules
Prerequisites
- Legal cannabis oil that is already decarboxylated and labeled with total THC per milliliter or per package.
- A kitchen scale that measures in grams or milligrams.
- A recipe that calls for oil or melted butter.
- An oven thermometer to verify low temperatures.
- Airtight container and labels for storage.
Steps
- Read the cannabis oil label to find total THC in milligrams per milliliter or per package.
- Decide how many servings the recipe will make.
- Divide the total THC by the number of servings to get milligrams per serving.
- Choose a target dose per serving, such as 1 to 2.5 mg for a new user.
- Measure the cannabis oil with a syringe or measuring spoon.
- Combine the oil with the other ingredients at the stage the recipe calls for oil or melted fat.
- Set the oven to 325°F (163°C) or lower if baking.
- Bake or cook until the food is done, checking that the internal temperature stays below 300°F (149°C).
- Let the food cool, then cut or portion it into equal servings.
- Label each serving with the THC amount and date.
Tips
- Use cannabis oil in recipes that cook at 325°F or lower, such as brownies, no-bake cookies, salad dressings, and sautéed vegetables.
- Avoid deep-frying or boiling the oil, as high heat can degrade THC.
- For savory dishes, choose an olive or avocado oil infusion; for sweets, choose coconut or MCT oil.
- Wait at least two hours after eating one serving before eating more.
- Keep a written log of how each dose affects you.
Storage
Store cannabis oil in an airtight container away from light and heat. A cool, dark cabinet works. Label the container with the THC concentration and date. Oil stored this way can last several months. Check for rancid smell before use.