Cannabis substances like cannabinoids are oil soluble, and attach to lipids. Coconut oil has a high level of oilty acids, or saturated lipids, which are excellent for cannabinoids to attach to.
Compared to olive oil, which typically holds a saturated oil content of under 20%, or margarine, with around 60% saturated lipids, coconut oil generally possesses over 80% saturated lipids. This indicates coconut oil can preserve more cannabinoids during infusion, making it more powerful.
Coconut oil also has a higher combustion point, so it can be heated to a greater temperature with less risk of scorching it.
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Cannabis butter vs. coconut oil: Is coconut oil or butter superior for edibles?
Numerous commercial baked delicacies use either infused butter or coconut oil. Which is optimal is a question of preference and nutritional requirements. Coconut oil’s high lipid content suggests it can absorb a higher level of cannabinoids. It’s also plant-based for consumers who opt to avoid animal products or have lactose sensitivity.
Butter, conversely, offers a better taste and texture when included in a baked delight. It also accommodates those with tree nut sensitivities.
Cannabis and coconut oil
Coconut oil applications and health advantages
Coconut oil has an abundance of nutritious oilty acids, making it perfect for individuals seeking a healthier cannabis oil base than butter, canola, or olive oil.
Coconut oil also remains solid at ambient temperature, making it convenient to store and also an excellent medium for a topical.
Its solid form makes it easy to handle and dose into gelatin capsules to create cannabis pills and dose accurately for oral ingestion.
Selecting the correct coconut oil for your cannabis infusion
Coconut oils available in nutritional stores and online fall into one of two broad categories: refined and unrefined (virgin). By its minimal processing, unrefined coconut oil retains the fresh, tropical scent and taste of the coconut, as well as the fruit’s antioxidants. This makes it ideal for use in topical formulations and if the taste isn’t a concern.
Refined coconut oil, alternatively, has often undergone deodorizing and bleaching processes that yield a gentler flavor and higher burning point, making it better suited for baking and infusions.
MCT oil derived from coconut oil contains the same healthy lipids as standard coconut oil, but the molecules are smaller, making them easier to digest.
All these alternatives will accommodate all the formulations listed throughout this guide, depending on your preferences.
How to create cannabis-infused coconut oil
Materials
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Oven
Saucepan, stock pot, double-boiler, or slow cooker aucepan, stock pot, doubleboiler, or slow cooker
Mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Container for cannabis oil
Cannabis grinder (optional)
Components
1 cup ground cannabis blossom (7-10 grams)
1 cup coconut oil
When preparing cannabis coconut oil, we suggest a1:1 ratio of cannabis to oil. If you prefer milder effects, use less cannabis.
Instructions
Decarb the cannabis.Decarboxylation activates cannabis by converting THCA in the plant into THC, the psychoactive element that will induce a high. Loosely break apart cannabis and position it on parchment paper on a baking tray. Warm it for30-40 minutes in an oven at245ºF.
Grind or break apart cannabis.A grinder will break your cannabis into a uniform consistency, but you can just as easily use your hands too. Keep in mind that anything small enough to fit through a strainer will end up in your final product, so don’t grind your cannabis into a fine powder.
Heat oil and decarbed cannabis. Add oil and decarbed cannabis to double boiler, slow cooker, or pot, and simmer on low for2-3 hours. Ensure the temperature of the oil remains between160-200ºF.
Strain and conserve the oil.Place mesh strainer or cheesecloth over container for oil and pour the oil/cannabis mixture through it. Do not squeeze it out—this will introduce more chlorophyll to your oil and make it taste more vegetal. Discard the plant material. The oil will have a shelf life of at least two months and can be extended with refrigeration.
Can I infuse RSO, shatter, or distillate into coconut oil?
Yes! Provided the concentrate is oil-based and contains lipids, coconut oil will bond to it. Our guide for infusing coconut oil with cannabis can be applied here as well, with a few adjustments.
Keep in mind that numerous extracts and concentrates may possess differing decarboxylation temperatures than flower due to their lack/varying degrees of plant material. And because they contain a much higher concentration of cannabinoids, particularly THC, that you will need to track your dosing more closely to guarantee you don’t exceed your personal limits.
How to utilize cannabis coconut oil
Individuals mainly add cannabis coconut oil to dishes when cooking to infuse meals with cannabis. We recommend testing a small amount first to assess its potency before incorporating a large quantity into a meal.
You can also add it to a hot drink, as it will dissolve into its liquid state, but it may create an oily mouth feel.
Edible formulas with coconut oil
Infused coconut oil makes for an excellent substitute for cannabis butter in edible formulas. In fact, it can also be used in conjunction with cannabis butter. Here are some of our favorite recipes that can be made with coconut oil.
Other methods to use cannabis-infused coconut or MCT oil
Cannabis coconut oil is also superb as a topical for local pain alleviation. Just apply some to your skin as you would a salve or cream; consider adding a dollop to your regular body and facial moisturizers for additional smoothing and antioxidants.
Infused coconut oil can also serve as a sensual lubricant in the bedroom, but be careful! Coconut oil may weaken condoms, as oil and latex do not mix.
Infused coconut oil also performs well in discreet capsules and suppositories.
Ever heard of oil pulling? Swishing some coconut oil during your regular teeth brushing can help eliminate pesky bacteria from your teeth and gums, with some anti-inflammatory benefits to boot.
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