How to Decarb Weed Without Losing Terpenes: A Beginners Guide

Introduction

• Decarboxylation is essential for activating the psychoactive THC and cannabinoids in cannabis.
  • It involves heating cannabis to remove carboxylic acids as CO2 is released.
  • Critical downside: can degrade terpenes, which are volatile and sensitive to heat.
  • Proper decarboxylation is necessary for experiencing full effects, whether smoking or vaporizing.

Methods of Decarboxylation

Oven Decarbing

• Most common and convenient home method.
• Steps:
  1. Preheat oven to 220°F (105°C).
  2. Coarsely grind cannabis—avoiding too fine a grind.
  3. Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 30-40 minutes until cannabis is golden brown.
  5. Cool completely and store airtight.
• Useful for making oils, edibles, tinctures, or capsules.

Sous Vide Method

• Advanced and precise method.
• Steps:
  1. Set sous vide device to 203°F (95°C).
  2. Seal ground weed in a vacuum or ziplock bag.
  3. Submerge in a water bath for 90 minutes.
  4. Cool completely before storing.

Mason Jar Decarbing

• Simple and effective; traps terpenes inside.
• Steps:
  1. Boil water and use it to submerge a mason jar filled with ground weed (leave space at top).
  2. Loosely screw on lid.
  3. Simmer for 60 minutes.
  4. Remove jar and let cool completely.

Decarboxylation Temperature Chart

• 220°F (104°C): 30-45 min, preserves most terpenes, ideal for flavorful edibles.
• 240°F (115°C): 30-40 min, standard for balance.
• 250°F (121°C): 25-30 min, faster with possible terpene loss.
• 280°F (138°C): 20 min, fast with potential loss.

Uses of Decarboxylated Cannabis

• More effective and versatile than raw cannabis.
• Can be infused into butter/oil for edibles, tinctures, and topicals.
• Activated cannabinoids and terpenes enhance therapeutic benefits and flavor.

Tips for Decarbing Without Losing Terpenes

• Use high-quality, fresh weed: Ensures more terpenes and cannabinoids.
• Proper storage: Cool completely and store in a dark, airtight container.
• Enhance with terpene-rich ingredients: Add flavor and aroma with citrus, herbs, or spices.