Decarboxylation of marijuana is a key process that allows you to fully utilize the potential contained in dried hemp. Thanks to this procedure, cannabinoids such as THC and CBD become active, which allows them to be better absorbed by the body. Without decarboxylation, most of the beneficial properties of marijuana remain untapped. What is decarboxylation and how to perform it? Find out more!

What is decarboxylation?

Decarboxylation is a chemical process in which acidic cannabinoids (such as THCA and CBDA) are transformed into their active forms: THC and CBD. This process involves heating dried hemp at an appropriate temperature, which causes the carboxyl group (-COOH) to detach and release carbon dioxide. Only then do THC and CBD become active and their therapeutic properties can be fully utilized.

Why is it worth decarboxylating dried hemp?

Decarboxylation of marijuana has many benefits. Here are the most important ones:

Cannabinoid activation – THC and CBD in their original, acidic form do not have a full therapeutic effect.
Greater therapeutic potential – active forms of cannabinoids have a more effective effect on the endocannabinoid system.
Better culinary properties - decarboxylation of the dried herb allows the use of hemp in the kitchen, e.g. for the production of oils, butter or cookies.
Elimination of moisture and pathogens - thermal processing of dried hemp helps to get rid of moisture and microorganisms.

How to properly decarboxylate hemp?

Hemp decarboxylation can be performed at home using an oven, a water bath or specialized equipment. The most popular and simplest method is to use an oven. Here's step by step how to do it:

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to approximately 110°C.
Spread the ground herb evenly on a baking tray lined with baking paper.

Process:

Put the dried fruit in the oven and heat for 30-50 minutes.
Check regularly whether the herb is burning. Properly decarboxylated herb should have a brownish tint.

Finish:

Once the process is complete, cool the herb so that it becomes brittle and ready for further use.

What is the best temperature to decarboxylate marijuana?

The optimal decarboxylation temperature depends on the type of cannabinoid:

THC:

110°C for 30 minutes,
130°C for 9 minutes,
145°C for 6 minutes.

CBD:

110°C for 50 minutes,
130°C for 30 minutes,
145°C for 15 minutes.

Too high a temperature leads to the degradation of cannabinoids and loss of their properties, so it is important to control the process.

Is THC and CBD decarboxylation different?

Although THC and CBD are decarboxylated in a similar way, they differ in the temperatures and time needed for activation. CBD requires a longer time at a lower temperature to achieve full activation, while THC is more susceptible to heat exposure more quickly.

Decarboxylation – various methods

The decarboxylation process can be performed in several ways, depending on available equipment and preferences:

Oven – the most popular method thanks to easy temperature control.
Water bath – a safe method using water at a temperature of approximately 94°C, although it requires more time (3-5 hours).
Vaporization – decarboxylation occurs naturally when the herb is heated in a vaporizer.
Natural decarboxylation – the process occurs spontaneously during long-term storage of dried herbs, but is ineffective.

What are the most common mistakes during decarboxylation?

Too high temperature – leads to the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Too long a heating time - causes the THC to be converted into CBN, which reduces the psychoactive effects.
Inadequate preparation of the herb - too coarse or fine grinding of the herb may affect the uniformity of decarboxylation.

Marijuana decarboxylation – summary

Decarboxylation of marijuana is a necessary step to fully utilize the potential of cannabinoids contained in dried hemp. Thanks to the appropriate temperature and time, we can activate THC and CBD, which allows us to enjoy their therapeutic effects. It is worth remembering that this process can be carried out at home, using simple methods such as an oven or a water bath. Thanks to the decarboxylation of dried hemp, you will discover the full potential of this extraordinary plant.