Learning how to make cannabis oil at home is fairly straightforward. In this blog, we’ll break down how you can make your own using an easy-to-follow recipe and tips. If you want to know how to make CBD oil at home, the process below uses hemp flower and a carrier oil, with no specialist equipment.
What is Cannaoil?
Cannaoil is a type of cannabis-infused oil that incorporates cannabinoids like THC or CBD into a carrier oil. This infusion creates a product that is easy to use in recipes, wellness routines, or as a standalone product.
Using Cannaoil
The type of cannabis flower you choose will play a substantial role in what effects your oil will end up having. Cannaoil’s potency depends on the strength of your chosen flower, how you prepare it, and the infusion method used.
This guide focuses on cannabis oils made from hemp for its higher CBD levels. Hemp-based oils are popular in wellness products.
Homemade Cannabis Oil: What You Need to Know
Making cannabis oil at home is a straightforward process. However, there are a few essentials to consider before you start.
Uses
Cannabis oil has a variety of uses. For example, many people use it to create edibles like brownies, cookies, or CBD gummies. Others prefer to use it sublingually (under the tongue) or add it to skincare products for its purported anti-inflammatory benefits.
Choosing Your Hemp Flower
Hemp has low THC levels and is often used for its non-psychoactive CBD properties. The CBD content of your flower shapes the strength of the finished oil, so it's worth checking the cannabinoid content of the strain you choose.
You can browse our CBD flower range, or use CBD shake, which is made from smaller pieces of flower and works well for infusions.
Dosing
Accurate dosing is essential when making cannabis oil. Start with a small amount of cannabis if you’re new to edibles or infusions.
You can always adjust the potency by using more flowers in future batches.
Best Carrier Oil
The choice of CBD carrier oil impacts the flavour and shelf life of your cannabis oil. Coconut oil is a popular option thanks to its high-fat content and mild taste, which boost cannabinoid absorption. Olive oil is another good choice for recipes that need a strong flavour profile.
Use Decarboxylate Cannabis!
Before infusing cannabis into oil, you must decarboxylate it. This process activates the THC or CBD in the flower by applying heat. Without decarboxylation, your oil may lack potency and the desired effects. Decarboxylating CBD flower is the first step in the recipe below.
Cannabis Oil Recipe (CBD Focused)
This CBD oil recipe is ideal if you prefer a non-psychoactive oil.
Ingredients:
- Hemp flower (high-CBD strain, decarboxylated). The amount you use will determine the strength of your oil.
- 1 cup of MCT oil, olive oil, or grapeseed oil
Tools:
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan or slow cooker
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Glass jar with an airtight lid
Steps:
- Decarboxylate Your Hemp
- Preheat your oven to 110°C (230°F).
- Spread the hemp evenly on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes to activate the CBD.
- Combine Ingredients
- Add the decarboxylated hemp and your chosen carrier oil to a saucepan or slow cooker.
- Heat on low, keeping the temperature below 90°C (200°F) for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Strain the Oil
- Use a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove plant material.
- Pour the strained cannabis oil into a glass jar and seal tightly.
- Store Properly
- Store your cannabis oil in a dark and cool place to preserve its quality.
Other Ways to Make CBD Oil
While the stovetop or slow cooker method is the most common, there are alternative ways to make CBD oil.
- Double Boiler Method: This method provides gentle, even heat, reducing the risk of burning your oil. Place your heat-safe bowl on top of a pot of simmering water and follow the same steps for infusion.
- Mason Jar Method: Combine cannabis and oil in a mason jar, seal it, and submerge it in a pot of hot water. This method is great for keeping the smell contained.
Each method has its pros and cons, so choose one that best suits your preferences and equipment.
Tips For Making DIY Cannabis Oil
Crafting cannabis oil requires patience and attention to detail. These tips will help you achieve the best results.
Properly Store Your Flower
Keep your cannabis flower in an airtight container away from light and heat. Fresh, well-preserved flowers ensure better-tasting and more potent oil.
Cook at Low Temperatures
High heat can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, diminishing the quality of your oil. Always use low, consistent temperatures during the infusion process.
Infuse Oil to Retain Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that contribute to cannabis’s flavour and effects. To preserve these compounds, avoid overheating the mixture and use fresh flowers whenever possible.
Strain to Get Rid of the "Weed" Taste
If you dislike the earthy taste of cannabis, ensure you strain the oil thoroughly. Using a fine mesh strainer or several layers of cheesecloth will help you to get rid of any unwanted plant material.
By understanding the basics and following each cannabis oil recipe carefully, you can easily create high-quality oil from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re crafting edibles, skincare products, or wellness remedies, learning how to make homemade cannabis oil is a handy skill.
CBD Oil Safety and Storage Tips
Homemade hemp oil hasn't been lab-tested, so you won't know exactly how much CBD, or trace THC, each batch contains. That makes careful storage and sensible use more important than with a shop-bought product.
- Store your oil in a clean, airtight glass jar away from heat and light, and label it clearly with the contents and the date you made it.
- Keep it out of reach of children and pets, especially if you've used it in edibles that look like ordinary food.
- Check it before each use and throw it away if it smells rancid or shows any sign of mould, as shelf life depends on the carrier oil you used.
- Never leave oil unattended while it's heating, and keep the temperature low throughout, as overheated oil can smoke or catch fire.
- The Food Standards Agency advises that CBD is not suitable for children, anyone pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, or people taking medication who haven't spoken to a medical professional.
If you'd rather know exactly what's in your oil, our lab-tested CBD oils and CBD edibles list their contents on the label.