THC oil is one of the most popular cannabis products because it has many uses - whether in medicine, cooking or for relaxation. But how is THC oil actually made? In this blog post, we explain the basics, the process and what to look out for. Please note: In many countries, the production of THC oil is subject to legal regulations. Therefore, find out about the legal situation in your country before you start.
What is THC oil?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive compound in the cannabis plant. THC oil is made by extracting THC from the flowers or leaves of the plant and dissolving it in a carrier oil (such as coconut, olive, or hemp seed oil). The oil can be consumed in small amounts to achieve the desired effects without having to smoke or vaporize the plant.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making THC Oil
1. Materials and ingredients
Before you start, you should have all the materials and ingredients ready:
• Cannabis flowers or trim (high THC content, depending on desired potency)
• High-proof alcohol (e.g. isopropanol or ethanol, at least 95%) for extraction
• carrier oil (e.g. coconut oil, olive oil, MCT oil or hemp seed oil)
• Cookware (glass container, fine sieve or coffee filter, bowl)
• Double boiler or saucepan for gentle heating
• oven for decarboxylation
2. Decarboxylation of cannabis flowers
Decarboxylation is a crucial step in making THC available in its active form. Raw cannabis mainly contains THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which is only converted into THC when exposed to heat.
• Steps :
1st Preheat the oven to 115–120 °C.
2nd Chop the cannabis flowers coarsely (not too finely) and spread them evenly on a baking tray.
3. Heat the flowers for about 30-45 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even heating.
3. Extraction of THC with alcohol
The next step is to extract the THC with alcohol.
• Steps :
1st Place the decarboxylated flowers in a glass jar and pour alcohol over them until the material is completely covered.
2nd Close the jar and shake it vigorously for 2-3 minutes. This will dissolve the cannabinoids and terpenes in the alcohol.
3. Filter the mixture through a fine sieve or coffee filter into a clean bowl. The filtered liquid now contains the THC extracts.
4. Removing the alcohol
To obtain pure THC oil, the alcohol must be removed.
• Steps :
1st Pour the alcohol mixture into a double boiler or heatproof container.
2nd Heat the liquid gently at a low temperature (not above 100 °C) to evaporate the alcohol. Make sure there is good ventilation, as alcohol is highly flammable.
3. What remains is a thick, sticky THC concentrate.
5. Mix with carrier oil
The THC concentrate is now dissolved in a carrier oil to make it easier to dose and use.
• Steps :
1st Heat the carrier oil slightly in a clean pot (about 50–60 °C).
2nd Add the THC concentrate and stir until completely dissolved.
3. Pour the finished THC oil into a dropper bottle or other airtight container.
Important instructions
• Dosage : THC oil is highly concentrated. Start with small amounts to test the effects, especially if you plan to use it medicinally.
• Safety : Work in well-ventilated areas, especially during extraction with alcohol.
• Storage : Store THC oil in a dark, cool place to extend its shelf life.
Applications of THC oil
• Medical : For pain relief, relaxation or to help with sleep problems.
• Culinary : To refine dishes, e.g. in smoothies, dressings or baked goods.
• Leisure : For a gentle, long-lasting effect.