But, when it comes to creating your own edibles, tinctures, or topicals at home, the whole decarbing process is more than just a lighter and a bong. Heating cannabis through smoking, vaping or baking, causes a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group from the cannabinoid molecules. This makes them more bioavailable and potent. 

If it's all sounding too fancy, we got it broken down for you here!

Understanding Decarboxylation

It just has to happen. In order for you to experience the full effects and get high from consuming weed, it needs to be heated first. Believe it or not, if you just take a raw bud and eat it, you'll not only despise the chewing process, but not feel a dang thing. It doesn't matter if it is top-shelf flower or not. 

Preparing Cannabis Flower for Decarboxylation

If you have some flower handy and want to dabble into the process of making your own cannabis products, you need to know how to decarboxylate your weed. Lucky for us, we can do it at home!

It's probably not the most cost efficient idea for you to put freshly purchased flower into this recipe. This little DIY pot project is perfect for using up that older weed, or all of the smaller nuggets chilling at the bottom of your stash jar. 

The smaller the nugget the better, and you can even grind it up so that it's more of a flat surface when baking.

The Decarboxylation Process

The most grueling part of the decarboxylation process is honestly waiting for the oven to heat up and do its thing. Around 240°F is the ideal temp for decarbing cannabis without burning off the cannabinoids. 

You'll want to lay out your little cannabis nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once the preheat chime goes off, slide your baking sheet of weed into the oven and set a timer for 30 minutes. 

Now, here is where you're craftiness and a little trial and error comes into play. Depending on the amount of flower, the actual temperature, and how long it's being baked, all plays part into the product. All of these can be tweaked, but the most important thing is staying close by and take a lookskee. 

Try not to actually open the oven door to do a quick check-in, just turn the light on. You will want to open the oven door every 10-15 minutes just to give the tray a little shake. Making sure every part is evenly baked. 

Decarboxylation Methods

The oven is the most effective, but not the only method to decarboxylate cannabis. You can speed up the process by using a microwave. Giving it zaps in 2-3 minute intervals. Of course, with anything that's quick and easy, isn't always the best outcome. 

If you compare weed decarboxylated in an oven compared to a microwave, it's easy to tell the difference. Now we aren't going to stop you from getting a little crafty and whipping up some culinary skills. 

Quite a few cannabis connoisseurs have successfully decarbed weed using the sous vide method. It's extremely precise and gives a more controlled way to heat all of the weed evenly.  There is quite a bit of a technique when it comes to mastering the sous vide method. Since it requires using a machine and vacuum sealer, it's not the first choice for everyone. 

Identifying Perfectly Decarboxylated Cannabis

So, how do you know whether you should give your tray another shake and bake for 10 minutes or take it out and let it cool? Well, it's as simple as looking for the physical changes in the cannabis. 

The most noticeable factor is the color. As the heat interacts with the cannabis, it will start turning more brown. You'll more than likely notice a toasted aroma compared to the skunky smell of fresh flower. Plus it's going to crumble when you squeeze it between your fingers. 

Common Questions and Concerns

As we try to give you a quality answer to 'what does decarbed weed look like', many other questions need to be answered. Here are the answers to those common questions.

Will decarbing make the room smell like weed?

Whether it's a good or bad thing, yes, your whole house will reek of weed. Go ahead and trying baking brownies and not let the smell fill your home. 

Is the decarboxylation temperature the same for all cannabinoids?

Actually, if you are looking to experience CBN or CBG at home, you can decarb your weed to maximize these cannabinoids. 

How can I reduce the smell when I decarb weed?

It's hard to mask the potent smell that baking cannabis gives off. Using ventilation, fans, and opening up a couple windows for the day will help. If you really want to make an effort to minimize the smell, the sous vide method is the way to go. 

Tips for Working with Decarboxylated Cannabis

Once the decarbing process is complete, the possibilities are endless! You can use it to create butter, oils, tinctures, topicals, and a variety of cannabis products – if you can dream it, you can make it.

You can also just grind the weed into a fine powder and enjoy the decarbed weed as-is, much like other dried herbs. This powder can be sprinkled onto food, incorporated into your favorite recipes such as my cannabis ranch dressing, or placed into capsules for convenient consumption.

1. Full-spectrum: Contains other naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Yes, this means THC (but in trace amounts less than 0.3%). There are also more terpenes and flavinoids in full-spectrum CBD. The combination of compounds is believed to create an "entourage effect", which means that the different components work together synergistically to enhance the benefits. You will typically find full-spectrum CBD in concentrates and vape carts.

2. Broad-spectrum: Quite similar to full-spectrum CBD oil in that it contains multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. The difference comes down to the additional refinement process it goes through to remove any detectable THC. Many gummies and tinctures come with broad-spectrum CBD.

3. Isolates: This is your pure CBD extract that has been isolated from all other compounds found in the cannabis plant. There are no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or flavonoids, which makes it a more universal form of CBD oil and can be used in virtually any CBD product. You cannot experience any psychoactive effects with isolates.

CBD product guide to therapeutic effects

Soothing CBD products for dry and itchy skin

There are quite a few CBD creams available on the market that are specifically designed to alleviate dry and itchy skin and even inflammation. Many of these creams with contain soothing botanical extracts like aloe vera or chamomile. Somewhat new to the market are CBD Bath Bombs, which are soothing and moisturizing on your skin. Just as frustrating as dry and itchy skin, is chapped lips! Yeah, you can find CBD Chapstick, too!

CBD for moisturizing feet

CBD creams are perfect for moisturizing your little piggies, but balms are where it's at. CBD balms tend to be thicker and have a more solid consistency. They are commonly made with ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter, or natural waxes, which are extremely moisturizing. CBD balms also provide a protective barrier on your skin and have longer-lasting effects.

CBD pain relief muscle cream

Products that are designed to provide pain relief are pretty loud and clear about it. For example, Mary's Medicinals Muscle Freeze, it's right there in the name. Another one that's an obvious pain reliever is the Vive CBD Broad Spectrum Pain Relief Roll-On. Typically these products have a higher amount of CBD compared to basic CBD oil products.

CBD for arthritis and joint pain relief

There are over 100 types of arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid being the most common). There is significant evidence supporting the use of CBD as an efficient remedy for long-term pain, especially CBD isolate. Additional ingredients like capsaicin and glucosamine give potential joint discomfort relief.

What is CBD water?

It’s a new innovative method to consume CBD in a hydrating, low-calorie, and non-intoxdicating way. The goal of CBD water is to provide a convenient and refreshing way to consume CBD. The funny thing is… CBD is hydrophobic, meaning it doesn’t naturally mix well with water. Thankfully there are techniques being used, like nanatechnology and lipsomes, to create water-compatible CBD particles that easily disperse in the water. It’s pretty close to tasteless, which is great, but there won’t be much CBD entering your bloodstream.

Making your own CBD products

If you want to have a fun and rewarding experience, making your own CBD products will deliver. It may take a few trials and errors before you get the process down, but we believe in you. You can follow this general guide to making your own CBD products.

1. Choose your CBD oil: Grab your favorite high-quality CBD oil.

2. Determine your potency: This has two determining factors. How much CBD is in the oil, and how much oil you are adding in comparison to your other ingredients.

3. Choose your carrier oil: Meaning the base oil you are using to dilute the CBD oil. You have options like MCT oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and hemp seed oil.

4. Calculate the CBD concentration: Now, on to the fun part. If you want to determine the CBD concentration in your final product, you'll need to know the potency of your CBD oil, and the amount of carrier oil you are using. We will talk about this in more detail later.

5. Measure and mix: Grab a precise measurement tool, such as a graduated dropper or kitchen scale. You want to make sure that the CBD oil and the carrier oil are thoroughly mixed so you get an even dose every time.

Customize to your preference: Adding in essential oils can change the game of your CBD product. They are perfect for adding a pleasant aroma and enhancing the benefits of your homemade product.

Perfect CBD oil combinations

CBD and lavender oil

Lavender oil is known for its calming and soothing properties. When combined with CBD oil, it can enhance relaxation and promote a sense of calm. This combination is often used in aromatherapy, massage oils, and topicals designed for relaxation and stress relief.

CBD and peppermint oil

Peppermint oil has a refreshing and invigorating scent, and when combined with CBD oil, it can provide a cooling sensation and promote a sense of alertness. This combination is commonly found in topicals, such as balms or salves, for muscle relief or to soothe tired feet.

CBD and jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is a lightweight and moisturizing carrier oil that closely resembles the natural oils produced by our skin. When combined with CBD oil, it creates a nourishing and hydrating blend. This combination is often used in skincare products, such as creams or serums, to promote healthy-looking skin.

CBD and tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is well-known for its antimicrobial and soothing properties. When combined with CBD oil, it can create a powerful blend for addressing skin concerns. This combination is often found in topicals, such as creams or ointments, for acne-prone skin, minor cuts, or skin irritations.

CBD and aloe vera

Aloe vera has been used for centuries for its soothing and moisturizing properties. When combined with CBD oil, it can provide a calming and hydrating effect. This combination is often used in topicals, such as lotions or gels, for soothing sunburns, dry skin, or minor irritations.

CBD and arnica extract

Arnica extract is derived from the arnica plant and has been traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with CBD oil, it can create a potent blend for relieving muscle soreness and joint discomfort. This combination is commonly found in topicals, such as creams or balms, for targeted pain relief.

How much CBD oil should I use?

Now back to calculating your CBD concentration that we mentioned in the homemade CBD product recipe. Let's say your CBD oil contains 500mg of CBD, and you use a quarter-sized amount to apply on your skin or take as a tincture. If we assume that this amount is around 1ml, you can calculate the approximate amount of CBD applied.

You would divide the total CBD content by the total volume of the product. If, for example, your 500mg CBD oil comes in a 100ml bottle, each ml would contain 5mg of CBD (500mg divided by 100ml).

The genetics of a cannabis strain is the main role in determining its quality and characteristics. Top-shelf weed is often made up of premium strains that have been carefully bred and selected for their desirable traits. Breeders work to create strains with high potency, unique flavors, specific effects, and other desirable qualities. Through selective breeding, they aim to produce strains that consistently deliver a superior cannabis experience.

Cultivation Methods

Top-shelf weed is typically cultivated using advanced cultivation methods. Indoor cultivation, which involves growing cannabis in controlled environments like grow rooms, allows growers to have precise control over factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and air circulation. This level of control helps optimize the growth and development of the plants, resulting in higher-quality buds. Greenhouse cultivation is another popular method that provides a balance between controlled and natural environmental conditions.

Nutrients

Providing the right balance of nutrients is essential for cultivating top-shelf cannabis. Growers carefully monitor and adjust nutrient levels, ensuring the plants receive the necessary elements for healthy growth. This includes macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and zinc. Proper nutrient management helps promote vigorous growth, resin production, and overall plant health.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvesting cannabis at the appropriate time is the key for achieving top-shelf quality. Growers closely monitor the plants to determine the ideal harvest window, which is typically when the trichomes are at their peak of cannabinoid production. Trichomes are resinous glands on the buds that contain the valuable compounds responsible for the plant's effects. Harvesting at the optimal time ensures the highest potency and flavor.

After harvesting, the buds undergo a careful trimming process to remove excess leaves and stems. This helps enhance the visual appeal and overall quality of the final product. Following trimming, the buds are typically dried and cured to perfection. Proper drying and curing techniques involve slowly removing moisture from the buds while preserving their flavors, aromas, and potency. This process can take several weeks and requires attention to detail to avoid issues like mold or overly dry buds.

The plant could be more meticulously cared for when grown in smaller batches, with attention to feeding schedules, lighting, temperature, and other variables. This doesn't mean that outdoor, greenhouse, or large indoor grows are inferior, but they are more vulnerable to external influences and may require more time to experiment with changes.

Identifying Premium Cannabis

If something is worth doing, it's worth doing the right way, especially when it comes to the weed you smoke. Although the world of cannabis can be filled with trendy terms that may seem meaningless, it's important to recognize that not all cannabis products are the same. High-quality marijuana is distinct from lower-grade options, and your senses, mind, and body will appreciate the difference. However, it's essential to know what to look for, and that's why we're here to help.

Characteristics of Top-Shelf Cannabis

Appearance

Top-shelf cannabis is often visually striking and well-groomed. The buds are typically dense, tightly packed, and have a desirable structure. They should be well-trimmed, meaning they are free of excess leaves and stems. The colors can vary depending on the strain, with shades of vibrant green, deep purple, or even hints of orange. Trichomes, the tiny resinous glands, should be plentiful and give the buds a frosty or shimmering appearance.

Aroma

High-quality cannabis is known for its captivating and aromatic bouquet. The terpenes present in top-shelf weed contribute to its unique scent profile. You may encounter a wide range of aromatic possibilities, from sweet and fruity notes, such as citrus, berries, or tropical aromas, to earthy and herbal scents like pine, mint, or chamomile. Some strains may even exhibit more complex aromas, such as spicy, diesel-like, or floral undertones.

Texture

When it comes to texture, top-shelf cannabis should have a pleasant and desirable feel. The buds should be slightly sticky to the touch, indicating the presence of resin-rich trichomes. They should also have a certain level of moisture without being overly damp or dry. Proper curing and drying techniques contribute to a balanced texture, allowing the buds to provide the best smoking sesh.

Potency and Cannabinoid Content

You wouldn't think, but top-shelf weed can still be potent and have a low amount of THC. This is all because of the meticulous care of the plants cannabinoid content. Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that interact with our body's endocannabinoid system. The most well-known cannabinoid is THC, which is responsible for the high we feel. However, there are many other cannabinoids that contribute to the overall experience.

CBD, for example, is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits. It can help reduce anxiety, inflammation, and even seizures. Other cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and CBN also have their own unique properties and potential benefits.

Terpenes in Top-Shelf Weed

Terpenes, on the other hand, are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis that give each strain its distinct smell and taste. They also play a role in the effects and medical benefits of cannabis. Terpenes can influence the way cannabinoids interact with our body, leading to different effects. For example, the terpene myrcene is known for its relaxing and sedating properties, while limonene is associated with uplifting and mood-enhancing effects.

Full Spectrum Cannabinoids and Terpenes

When a cannabis strain has a diverse range of cannabinoids and terpenes, it's often referred to as having a "full spectrum" or "entourage effect." This means that the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes work together synergistically, enhancing the overall effects and potential therapeutic benefits of the plant.

Matching a strain's effects to its intended use case is key, and trying it out can indicate its quality. If you don't feel any positive effects or if it doesn't seem to have much of an impact, it's likely that the cannabis is of lower quality or has degraded due to age, resulting in a loss of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Top Shelf Cannabis Pricing and Availability

Premium cannabis found on the top shelf typically costs $5 to $15 more per gram compared to lower or average quality cannabis. While this may seem like a significant difference, it's important to consider the potency and effects. The high quality of the top-shelf cannabis means you'll need to use less of it to achieve the same experience as you would with lower-quality cannabis. When adjusting your dosage, the overall cost can end up being similar.

Spending excessively on high-quality cannabis isn't advisable, but it's worth treating this purchase like any other where quality matters. Just as you might be willing to pay more for fine wine, fresh organic food, or high-quality treats for your pets, it's reasonable to justify the expense of superior cannabis.

Questions to Ask About Top-Shelf in Dispensaries

What strains do you consider to be top-shelf or of the highest quality?

Asking for the budtender's opinion on the top-shelf strains can give you valuable insights into their recommendations. They may suggest specific strains known for their exceptional quality, potency, and effects.

Can you provide information about the cannabinoid and terpene profiles?

Understanding the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of a strain can give you insights into its potential effects and flavors. Ask your budtender about the THC and CBD content, as well as the dominant terpenes present in the strain. This information can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and desired experience.

Can I see and smell the product before purchasing?

Inspecting the cannabis visually and smelling it can provide additional cues about its quality. Ask if you can examine the buds to ensure they are well-formed, densely packed, and have a desirable appearance. Additionally, take a moment to appreciate the aroma to see if it aligns with your preferences.

Being a parent is hard, but being a parent who medicates with weed adds another layer of difficulty. With judgment from other parents and the stigma that still surrounds cannabis, using this plant can lead to far more than just an awkward moment. It can affect your work life, your home life, and even affect the relationship you have with your children—but you’re not alone.

As cannabis continues to be legalized across the globe, more and more parents are coming out as medical marijuana users and have shared their secrets on how to deal with all things parenting and weed. Read on for our tips for parents who use cannabis.

Secure your stash.

Whether you use cannabis recreationally or medicinally, cannabis is not safe for children. Although licensed marijuana products are required to come in childproof packaging, it is in your best interest to keep stash farrrrr farrrr away from curious kids. Get a safe, lock your closet, or whatever you can think to do to protect your children, you should absolutely be doing.

Timing is everything.

When and how you enjoy cannabis can make a big difference in your life and your children’s life—and this can refer to more than just time of day. Some parents choose not to use until their kids are old enough to understand what cannabis is and why they use it.

When that’s not an option, others find discreet ways to consume (like edibles or vaporizers) during the day or wait until their children are tucked safely into bed before imbibing. Everyone has different reasons for using cannabis and different family dynamics so it’s important to figure out what is going to work best for your individual needs. If you have a partner or co-parent, get together to decide when, where, how, and how often is appropriate for consuming at home.

When the time comes, talk about it.

When it feels right, many parents encourage you to have open and honest discussions with your kids about cannabis. Discuss it matter-of-factly with accurate information, and your children may just perceive it as another boring thing that their parents are into, rather than some scary drug.

The more you introduce the idea of cannabis to your kids, the more you can teach them about their bodies, mental health, wellness, and maybe even improve your communication with them overall. Show them that you trust them, and they may do the same right back.

If smoking is your thing, consider your words carefully.

One thing is for sure: Kids these days are not dumb. If you’re open about your cannabis use and smoking is your favorite way to go, they may call you out for using combustion, which has a reputation for being an unhealthy way to enjoy weed. At first glance, it might seem a little too close to smoking cigarettes for comfort.

However, don’t shy away from explaining yourself in a calm and concise manner. Remember, kids aren’t stupid. Be honest with them and use this as an opportunity to show your kids how adults analyze risks and benefits in complex situations. For example, maybe you’re dealing with anxiety and need immediate relief when you find yourself getting anxious. Smoking is one of the fastest ways to get the relief you need.

At the end of the day, it’s just a plant.

Like all psychoactive substances, cannabis requires some basic safety considerations, but unless you’re dealing with personal or family addiction issues, it’s not worth getting stress out about. Only you know what is best for you, your body, your family, and that’s that on that.

So take the proper precautions, do your research so you can feel confident in your choices, talk to your family and do what is right for your individual needs. No matter what anyone else has to say about it, it’s just a plant—a miraculous one if we do say so ourselves.

So while weed doesn't technically have a "best if used by" date, it has a general window of several months before it's considered "old". There are many things that can happen to speed up this process. 

Think of it like a fresh garden salad. If you cover it and put it back in the fridge, you can enjoy it for a few days. Leave it out on the kitchen counter and within hours it will look very unappetizing. 

It's not considered expired but definitely not at its prime and more than likely headed to the garbage. 

How to Tell if Weed Is Bad

When you think of something you consume and the quality of freshness, there are the obvious factors showing that it's bad. Being stale, brittle, no taste, no smell, loss of vibrant colors, and for many things, mold. 

But, here's the kicker, cannabis has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making it age a lot slower than other herbs and flowers. The following are the most important signs that you have bad weed. 

Change in Aroma

It's no surprise that weed has a pungent, skunky, and very distinct smell. This all comes from the terpenes and flavonoids in the cannabis plant. As weed ages, these odors will weaken drastically. Likewise, if you open your stash and get a mad whiff of musty stench… you might want to take a closer look.

Change in Texture

There is no doubt that the nug your Budtender shows you during your dispensary visit, is the freshest bud available. It's sticky, squishy but firm, and glistening with crystalized trichomes. When weed is going bad, it will be dry and powdery, and most likely can skip the grinder since you can crumble it with your fingers. 

Change in Taste

Just like with smell, taste is a close second to determining if your weed is expired. The flavor you get from inhaling marijuana is so distinct from anything else. No questions asked, if there is a nasty, harsh taste or even worse, taste nothing at all, you aren't going to feel any sort of high.

The Risks of Smoking Old Weed

Oh yeah, there are sure risks of smoking old weed. We understand that sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures, but desperation should never come between you and the quality of your bud. 

First off, you are not getting any quality THC from smoking old weed. A possible slight buzz might hit you but nothing compared to a fresh pre roll. Aside from that, the harshness of smoking old weed is going to give you a very sore throat. 

But, the real risks of smoking old weed comes when there is a presence of mold!

The Dangers of Moldy Weed

There is absolutely no reason you should expose yourself to moldy weed. Just like moldy bread and fruits, the same goes for cannabis. That white, gray, or black fuzzy things that grow in the nooks and crannies of things, that's mold. And mold loves loves loves moisture.

If you don't know exactly what to look for when it comes to mold on your weed, you could be consuming it without knowing. Over time you will easily notice respiratory issues either with coughing and wheezing. Your immune system becomes more susceptible to infections and increases exposure to certain mycotoxins. 

How to Check for Weed Mold

A good majority of the time you are able to see mold on your weed just by looking at it. There are a few different types of molds that grow on marijuana and some are more harmful than others. 

Aspergillus is the most concerning type of mold when it comes to cannabis. It produces mycotoxins and aflatoxins, which are harmful to our bodies. 

Botrytis is a gray mold, commonly called "bud rot" in cannabis. It leads to faster decay and loss of buds on the plant. 

Both of these mold types are harmful and can spread like wildfire. There are special microscopes you can easily find online that allow you to see the trichomes and close-ups of your bud to check for mold.  

Storing Weed to Prevent Expiration

To keep your flower fresh to death and far from mold, you have to keep it stored correctly. We are all about airtight jars like you see in dispensaries. Mason jars are a perfect option. These keep your stash fresh, potent, and dry.

You want to stash your jar somewhere that is cool, dry and dark. Completely avoid direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. These are the main culprits for old and moldy weed. The main goal is to keep the right humidity levels, between 59 and 63%. If this is a common problem you face, grab some humidity packs for humidors (used for the same reason with cigars) and see if that helps.

Using Up Old Weed: Options and Ideas

Now you've dissected your buds and they are free of mold but still looking a little weak. Don't go throwing it away just yet. We still have some good uses for the goodies left at the bottom of your stash. 

Vape it

Dry-herb vaporizers are the perfect device to use up old weed. It might not taste the best but it definitely helps revive the quality compounds. 

Turn it into Edibles

Cooking with your old weed is a great method! It can help preserve and enhance the potency, flavors, and effects. This is due to the second-pass effect, where the THC is digested and metabolized into the compound 11-Hydroxy-THC.

Turn it into Kief

Pretty simple to do with old weed since it isn't as sticky and spongy as it was when it was fresh. Since kief is considered a dry, solventless concentrate, it's the perfect added bonus to any joint, blunt, or bowl pack! Plus, kief is a combination of all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids of the whole cannabis plant!

Conclusion

At the end of the day, your weed that you thought you lost last month is still perfectly fine to light up. When it's been more than 8 months to a year, then you can start determining your level of desperation. As long as there is no fuzzy mold growing and you are keeping it stored the right way, you should have no worries with tasty good-smelling weed!