Cannabis butter: production, use and effects

What is cannabis butter?

Cannabis butter, often called cannabutter, is a mixture of butter and cannabis that is used in the kitchen to enjoy the active ingredients of cannabis in various dishes. This method of preparation makes it possible to extract the active ingredients of cannabis, such as THC and CBD, into butter, making it easy and delicious to consume.

What is CannaButter?

CannaButter is a special form of butter that is enriched with the active ingredients of cannabis. The process of making CannaButter involves heating the butter and cannabis to extract the active cannabinoids from the plant and bind them into the butter. This process ensures that the butter contains the psychoactive (THC) and/or medicinal (CBD) effects of cannabis. CannaButter can then be used in a variety of recipes to make edible cannabis products, such as brownies, cookies and more.

CannaButter manufacturing process:

1. Decarboxylation: this is a crucial step where the cannabis is heated to convert the inactive cannabinoids into their active form. Without this step, the effects of CannaButter would hardly be noticeable.
2. Melting the butter: The butter is melted over medium heat. Water is often added to regulate the temperature and prevent burning.
3. Add cannabis: The decarboxylated cannabis is added to the melted butter and allowed to simmer over low heat for several hours to extract the active ingredients.
4. Strain and cool: The mixture is strained through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any plant residue. The butter is then left to cool and solidify.

Difference between THC and CBD

Cannabis contains over 100 different cannabinoids, but the best known and most abundant are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These two compounds have different effects and areas of application:

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol):

• Psychoactive effects: THC is the main component of cannabis that causes the psychoactive effects. It is responsible for the typical "high" associated with the consumption of marijuana.
• Medical uses: THC can relieve pain, stimulate appetite and help with insomnia. It is often used for chronic pain and to stimulate appetite in cancer patients.
• Legal aspects: The content of THC in cannabis products is regulated by law in many countries and can affect the legality of the products.

CBD (cannabidiol):

• Non-psychoactive effects: Unlike THC, CBD does not cause a "high". It has calming and anti-inflammatory properties, without the psychoactive effects of THC.
• Medical applications: CBD is valued for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-anxiety properties. It is used for a variety of conditions, including epilepsy, anxiety disorders and chronic pain.
• Legal aspects: In many countries, CBD products are legal as long as they only contain small amounts of THC.

Combination in CannaButter: The effect of CannaButter depends on the cannabis strain used. Some strains have higher THC levels and therefore offer stronger psychoactive effects, while other strains are rich in CBD and offer more therapeutic benefits. It is important to find the right balance for the desired effects.

Overall, cannabis butter is a versatile ingredient that offers both culinary and therapeutic applications. Whether you're looking for the relaxing effects of CBD or the intoxicating effects of THC, CannaButter offers an easy way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis.

Benefits of cannabis butter

Why cannabis butter is popular

Cannabis butter, also known as CannaButter, is popular for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it provides an easy and discreet way to consume the active ingredients of cannabis. This is particularly attractive for those who want to enjoy the health benefits of cannabis without having to smoke. CannaButter also offers the ability to precisely control dosage, which is important for both recreational and medical users. Another plus point is that it is very versatile in the kitchen and makes the preparation of edible cannabis products much easier. This makes CannaButter an attractive option for a broad target group.

Long-lasting effect

A major advantage of cannabis butter is its long-lasting effect. While smoking or vaping cannabis often has an immediate but short-lived effect, consuming CannaButter provides a consistent and longer-lasting experience. This is because the active ingredients are absorbed through the digestive tract, resulting in a slower but more continuous release process. This property is particularly beneficial for medical users seeking lasting relief from symptoms such as chronic pain, insomnia or anxiety. Recreational users also benefit from the prolonged effect, as they can experience longer-lasting relaxation and a lasting sense of well-being without having to re-dose frequently.

Versatility in the kitchen

Cannabis butter is extremely versatile in the kitchen, making it a popular ingredient for amateur chefs and culinary experimenters. It can be used in almost any recipe that calls for regular butter, which means there are no limits to the creative ways it can be used. From sweet treats like brownies, cookies and cakes to savory dishes like pasta, soups and sauces, CannaButter can take your culinary creations to the next level. What's more, it can also be used in simpler applications such as toast or vegetable stir-fries to enhance everyday meals. This versatility makes it easy to consume cannabis in a tasty and discreet way, which is especially appealing to those who want to avoid the taste or inhalation of smoke.

Making cannabis butter

Ingredients you need

To make cannabis butter, you only need a few essential ingredients. These will significantly affect the final product, so it's important to use high-quality components. Here's what you need:

• 1 cup of unsalted butter: unsalted butter is better because it doesn't mask the natural flavor of the cannabis. Salted butter can alter the flavor of the final products and is therefore less ideal.
• 1 cup of ground cannabis: The amount can be adjusted depending on the desired potency. Make sure to use high-quality cannabis, as inferior quality can affect the potency and flavor of the butter. It is advisable to grind the cannabis before use to ensure an even distribution of the active ingredients.
• 1 cup of water: The water helps to regulate the temperature during cooking and prevents the butter from burning. It also helps to give the butter a smooth and even consistency.

Decarboxylation: what is it and why is it important?

Decarboxylation is a crucial step in the production of cannabis butter. It is necessary to convert the inactive cannabinoids in cannabis into their active form. This is done by slowly heating the cannabis at a low temperature.

What is decarboxylation?

• Activation of the active ingredients: In raw cannabis, the cannabinoids are mainly present in their acidic form (THCA and CBDA). Heating converts these into the active forms (THC and CBD), which are responsible for the psychoactive and therapeutic effects.
• Optimal potency: Without this step, the cannabinoids remain in their inactive form, resulting in a significantly lower potency. Decarboxylation ensures that the cannabinoids can develop their full effect.

Why is decarboxylation important?

• Psychoactive effects: Decarboxylation is essential to experience the psychoactive effects of THC. Without this process, the consumption of cannabis butter would have no intoxicating effect.
• Therapeuticbenefits: The therapeutic benefits of CBD are also enhanced by decarboxylation, as only the active form produces the desired medicinal effects.

Step-by-step guide

Here is a detailed guide to making your own cannabis butter:

1. Decarboxylate: Spread the ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet. Heat it in the oven at 240°F (115°C) for about 30-40 minutes. Stir the cannabis occasionally so that it heats evenly. This step is crucial to convert the inactive cannabinoids into their active form and ensure that the butter is fully effective.

2. Heat the butter and water: Melt the butter together with the water in a saucepan over medium heat. The water will help to regulate the temperature and prevent the butter from burning. An even temperature is important to avoid overheating, which could destroy the cannabinoids. Allow the mixture to melt slowly and make sure it doesn't start to boil.

3. Add the cannabis: Add the decarboxylated cannabis to the melted butter and water mixture and stir well. Reduce the heat and leave the mixture to simmer at a low temperature for 2-3 hours. Make sure the mixture does not boil, as this could destroy the active compounds. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even distribution of the cannabinoids.

4. Strain: After simmering, pour the mixture through a fine strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl to remove the plant residue. Squeeze the residue well to extract as much butter as possible. This step is important to ensure that no plant debris remains in the finished butter, which could affect the flavor and texture.

5. Leave to cool: Allow the strained mixture to cool and then place it in the refrigerator until the butter solidifies. The water will separate from the butter and can simply be poured off. The finished cannabis butter should have an even, smooth consistency and can now be used in various recipes.

With these step-by-step instructions, you can make your own cannabis butter and use it in a variety of dishes. Whether for sweet or savory recipes, CannaButter offers a delicious way to enjoy the beneficial effects of cannabis in a creative way.

Using cannabis butter

Delicious baked goods: Cookies, brownies and more

Cannabis butter is a perfect ingredient for a variety of sweet treats. Classic baked goods such as cookies and brownies are particularly popular as they are easy to prepare and release the effects of cannabis pleasantly and slowly.

• Cookies: Cannabis cookies are easy to prepare and easy to portion. You can use your favorite cookie recipe and simply replace the regular butter with cannabis butter. Make sure to keep the temperature low so as not to destroy the cannabinoids.
• Brownies: Cannabis brownies are a classic and a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts. The rich chocolate flavor masks the taste of the cannabis, making them a delicious treat. Again, simply replace the regular butter with cannabis butter.
• Cakes and muffins: Cannabis butter can also be used in cakes and muffins. Whether chocolate cake, lemon muffins or a classic vanilla cake - the possibilities are endless. The dosage should be carefully adjusted to achieve the desired effect.

Sauces and dressings you'll love

Cannabis butter can also be used in savory dishes to add a special touch to sauces and dressings. These applications are ideal for those looking for a subtle and flavorful way to consume cannabis.

• Pasta sauces: An easy way to use cannabis butter is to melt it into your favorite pasta sauce. Whether it's alfredo, carbonara or a simple tomato sauce, a spoonful of cannabis butter can take the sauce to the next level.
• Salad dressings: You can also use cannabis butter in salad dressings. A simple vinaigrette dressing with cannabis butter, vinegar and herbs can be a healthy and beneficial addition to your salad.
• Butter sauces: Cannabis butter can also serve as a base for various butter sauces that go well with fish, vegetables or steak. A simple lemon butter sauce with cannabis butter is easy to prepare and adds a special touch to your dishes.

Hearty dishes for every day

In addition to sweet treats and sauces, cannabis butter can also be used in a variety of savory dishes. It offers a tasty and creative way to incorporate cannabis into your daily diet.

• Roasted vegetables: Use cannabis butter to roast vegetables. Whether it's carrots, potatoes or asparagus - the butter not only makes the vegetables delicious, but also enriches them with the beneficial active ingredients of cannabis.
• Mashed potatoes: A creamy mashed potato with cannabis butter can be a comforting side dish that is perfect for relaxing evenings. The butter gives the mash a rich texture and a pleasant taste.
• Grilled sandwiches: Use cannabis butter to grill your favorite sandwich. A grilled cheese sandwich or panini with a layer of cannabis butter is an easy and delicious way to enjoy cannabis.

With these versatile uses, cannabis butter can be a valuable addition to your kitchen. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of cannabis in a delicious and creative way.

Cannabis butter without decarboxylation

Can it be done without?

Yes, it is possible to make cannabis butter without decarboxylation, but there are some important aspects to consider. Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to convert the inactive cannabinoids (THCA and CBDA) into their active forms (THC and CBD). Without this step, the cannabinoids remain mostly inactive.

If you make cannabis butter without decarboxylation, the psychoactive effect of THC is greatly reduced as THCA is not converted to THC. Some users prefer this, especially if they want the medicinal benefits of cannabis without experiencing the psychoactive effects.

Advantages and disadvantages

Pros:

• Milder effect: Since the decarboxylation process is skipped, the THCA content remains high while the THC content remains low. This results in a milder effect, which can be beneficial for those who want to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC.
• Ease of production: Making cannabis butter without decarboxylation requires fewer steps, making it easier and faster. You don't need to heat the cannabis beforehand, which speeds up the whole process.
• Medicinal benefits: THCA has its own therapeutic properties, such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Some users prefer to use non-decarboxylated cannabis to get these benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC.

Disadvantages:

• Lower potency: without decarboxylation, most of the THCA is not converted into the psychoactive THC. This means that the finished cannabis butter is less potent, resulting in lower potency.
• Unpredictable effects: Because the cannabinoids are not fully activated, the effects can be less predictable. This can lead to an inconsistent experience, especially for those who require a specific dosage.
• Taste: The taste of non-decarboxylated cannabis can be more intense and less pleasant in the finished butter, as the cannabinoids and terpenes are not fully activated and released.

Deciding whether to make cannabis butter without decarboxylation depends on your personal preferences and goals. If you want to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC and are interested in the medicinal benefits of THCA, this may be a suitable method for you. However, if you're looking for the full potency and psychoactive effects of THC, decarboxylation is an essential step.

Cannabis butter in the Thermomix

How to make it in the Thermomix

Making cannabis butter in a Thermomix is a simple and efficient way to infuse the active ingredients of cannabis into butter. The Thermomix provides precise temperature control and continuous stirring, resulting in a consistent and potent end product. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup ground and decarboxylated cannabis
• 1 cup of water

Instructions:

1. Decarboxylating the cannabis: Before you begin, you need to decarboxylate the cannabis. Spread the ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and heat it in the oven at 240°F (115°C) for about 30-40 minutes. Stir the cannabis occasionally so that it heats evenly.

2. Add butter and water: Add the butter and water to the Thermomix mixing bowl. The water helps to regulate the temperature and prevents the butter from burning.

3. Add cannabis: Add the decarboxylated cannabis to the butter and water mixture in the mixing bowl.

4. Setting the Thermomix: Set the Thermomix to 100°C and stir the mixture for 1 hour at speed 2. This temperature ensures that the butter does not boil, which could destroy the cannabinoids.

5. Reduce the temperature: After an hour, reduce the temperature to 90°C and leave the mixture to stir on speed 2 for a further 1-2 hours. This ensures that the cannabinoids are fully infused into the butter.

6. Strain: After stirring, pour the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl to remove the plant residue. Squeeze the residue well to extract as much butter as possible.

7. Leave to cool: Leave the strained mixture to cool and then put it in the fridge until the butter solidifies. The water will separate from the butter and can simply be poured off.

Tips and tricks for the best results

• Even chopping: Make sure to chop the cannabis evenly before using it in the Thermomix. This ensures an even distribution of the cannabinoids in the butter.
• Precise temperature control: The Thermomix offers precise temperature control, which is crucial for the quality of the cannabis butter. Be careful not to set the temperature too high so as not to destroy the active ingredients.
• Stir regularly: The Thermomix ensures that the mixture is heated evenly by stirring continuously. This prevents hotspots and ensures an even infusion of the cannabinoids.
• Quality of ingredients: Use high quality butter and cannabis to achieve the best result. The quality of the ingredients has a big impact on the flavor and potency of the finished butter.
• Storage: Keep the finished cannabis butter in the fridge and label it clearly to avoid confusion. It can also be frozen to extend its shelf life.

Using the Thermomix to make cannabis butter is a convenient and effective method that delivers precise results. With these tips and tricks, you can ensure your cannabis butter turns out perfectly every time.

Buying cannabis butter

What you need to look out for

Buying cannabis butter can be a practical alternative to making your own. However, there are some important aspects you should consider to ensure you get a high-quality and safe product.

• Legal situation: Check the legal regulations in your country or state regarding the purchase and possession of cannabis products. In some regions, the purchase of cannabis butter is only allowed under certain conditions or not at all.
• Licensed suppliers: Only purchase cannabis butter from licensed and reputable vendors. These providers must adhere to strict quality and safety standards, which minimizes the risk of contamination and incorrect doses.
• Ingredients list: Pay attention to the ingredients list and make sure there are no unnecessary additives or preservatives. The best products contain only butter and cannabis.
• THC and CBD content: Check the THC and CBD content of the cannabis butter. This information should be clearly stated on the packaging. Choose a product that suits your needs and tolerance.
• Laboratory reports: Reputable suppliers have their products tested by independent laboratories and make the results of these tests available. These reports provide information about the purity and potency of the product and ensure that no harmful substances are contained.
• Customer reviews: Read customer reviews and testimonials. This can give you a good impression of the quality and effectiveness of the product.

The best providers and quality features

If you have decided to buy cannabis butter, there are a few suppliers and quality features that you should consider:

• Pharmacies and licensed dispensaries: these are often the best places to buy high-quality cannabis butter. They offer tested products and expert advice.
• Online stores: Some licensed providers also offer their products online. Make sure that the supplier operates legally in your country or state and that delivery is safe and discreet.

Quality features:

• Organic ingredients: High-quality cannabis butter should be made from organic ingredients. This minimizes the risk of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
• Transparent production: Good suppliers provide detailed information about the production process and the ingredients used. Transparency is a sign of quality and trust.
• Clear dosage instructions: The packaging should contain clear information on dosage and use. This helps you to consume the right amount and avoid unpleasant surprises.
• Packaging and storage: Pay attention to the packaging. It should be airtight and protected from light to preserve the freshness and potency of the butter. Some suppliers also offer special storage instructions to extend the shelf life.

By considering these aspects and quality features, you can ensure that you are buying a high-quality cannabis butter that is safe and effective.

Freezing cannabis butter

How to store cannabutter properly

Cannabis butter, also known as cannabutter, is a valuable ingredient that you want to store for long periods of time. One of the best methods for long-term storage is freezing. To preserve the potency and freshness of your cannabutter, you should use airtight containers or freezer bags. This will prevent moisture and air from affecting the quality of the butter. It is helpful to freeze the CannaButter in small portions. This will allow you to defrost only the amount you need without having to freeze and defrost the rest of the butter repeatedly. Label the containers or freezer bags with the date of manufacture and the THC or CBD content to keep track and ensure you use the oldest stock first. Additionally, wrap the CannaButter in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the airtight container. This provides an extra layer of protection and helps to extend the shelf life.

Tips for freezing and defrosting

Freezing and thawing CannaButter requires some precautions to ensure that the quality and potency of the butter is maintained. Place the CannaButter on the top shelf of the freezer where the temperature is constant. Avoid storing the butter near strong smelling foods as it can absorb odors. Allow the CannaButter to thaw slowly in the refrigerator to ensure a uniform consistency. This can take a few hours to overnight. Avoid thawing the butter at room temperature or in the microwave as this can affect the texture and potency. Once thawed, CannaButter should not be refrozen. Repeated freezing and thawing can significantly affect the quality and potency of the butter. Once thawed, CannaButter should be consumed within a few days to ensure the best quality and potency. Store it in the refrigerator and keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your cannabis butter stays fresh and effective for longer periods of time. Freezing is a great way to extend shelf life and always have a handy storage source on hand for your culinary creations.

Conclusion

Cannabis butter, also known as cannabutter, is a versatile and popular ingredient that allows the active compounds of cannabis to be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Making cannabis butter requires care, especially when decarboxylating the cannabis to activate the full active compounds. A dosage calculator can help to calculate the correct amount of THC and CBD to ensure safe and effective use.

The uses for cannabis butter are almost limitless. It can be used in sweet treats such as cookies and brownies, savory dishes, sauces and dressings. For those who prefer a discreet and tasty way of consumption, cannabis butter offers an ideal solution.

When buying cannabis butter, it is important to look for high-quality products from licensed suppliers that provide clear information about ingredients and THC/CBD levels. Freezing cannabis butter in small portions and storing it properly can extend its shelf life and preserve its quality.

The effects of cannabis butter are slower onset, but more intense and longer lasting than other forms of consumption such as smoking or vaping. This makes it particularly suitable for medical applications and for those looking for a consistent and long-lasting effect.

In summary, cannabis butter offers a flexible and effective way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis, whether for medicinal purposes or as part of a creative cuisine. With the right methods of preparation, dosing and storage, you can ensure that your experience with cannabis butter is safe, enjoyable and beneficial.