What Is Cannabis Infusion?
Cannabis infusion is the process of transferring cannabinoids and other plant compounds from cannabis into a carrier substance such as oil, butter, alcohol, or honey. This allows cannabis to be used in non-smokable forms like edibles, topicals, and tinctures. Infusions rely on time, heat, or both to extract compounds into the chosen base.
How Growers and Consumers Encounter Cannabis Infusion
Growers and consumers encounter cannabis infusion when making homemade edibles, salves, balms, or tinctures. It is commonly done using dried flower or trim combined with a carrier like oil or butter. Infusion is often a foundational step before creating finished cannabis products.
Why Cannabis Infusion Matters
Cannabis infusion makes it possible to use cannabis in a wide range of applications beyond smoking or vaping. It allows for controlled dosing and product customization depending on the carrier used. Understanding infusion helps ensure consistency, safety, and effectiveness in homemade cannabis products.
Common Types of Cannabis Infusions
Common cannabis infusions include oils, butters, alcohol-based tinctures, and topical bases. Each carrier extracts and delivers cannabinoids differently, affecting potency, absorption, and use. The choice of infusion depends on the intended final product.
Common Misconceptions About Cannabis Infusion
Cannabis infusion alone does not automatically activate cannabinoids unless heat is involved. Many infusions require decarboxylation before or during the process to be effective. Confusing infusion with decarboxylation can lead to weak or inconsistent results.
Resources
- VIDEO: How To Make Infused Gummies For Pain, Stress, and Better Sleep (The Slow Lane)
- VIDEO: DIY Cannabis-Infused Salve (Paranoid Grower)