Introduction: A Simple Guide to Cannabis Coconut Oil
To make cannabis-infused coconut oil, decarboxylate 10 grams of ground cannabis flower, infuse it in 200 ml of virgin coconut oil, then strain the oil through a fine mesh filter into a clean jar. Decarboxylation comes first because raw cannabis holds THCA, which only becomes THC with heat. This recipe walks through each step with an herb cooker, a tool that runs the decarboxylation and infusion cycles for you and gives consistent results.
Cannabis-infused coconut oil can be used in a variety of ways: as a base for edibles, a supplement in wellness recipes, or in body care products. The high fat content of coconut oil allows cannabinoids to bind efficiently, making it an ideal choice for infusions.
Ingredients:
- 10 grams of dried cannabis flower
- 200 ml of virgin coconut oil
Equipment:
- herb cooker (for decarboxylation, infusion and filtering)
- Heatproof glass jar with lid
- Spatula or spoon
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cannabis Coconut Oil
1. Grind and Decarboxylate the Cannabis
Before infusing, cannabis must be decarboxylated to activate the THC (or CBD) from THCA (or CBDA). This process is crucial because raw cannabis won’t provide any psychoactive effects unless it’s heated to activate these compounds.
- Coarsely grind your cannabis, aim for a crumbly texture, not powdery.
- Place the cannabis in the Glass beaker of your herb cooker.
- Set the cooker to the decarboxylation setting.
- Once the cycle is complete, your cannabis is ready for infusion.
2. Infuse the Coconut Oil
Now that your cannabis is decarbed, it’s time to infuse it into the coconut oil.
- Add the coconut oil to the beaker with your decarbed cannabis.
- Set the herb cooker to the infusion setting.
- After the infusion cycle finishes, strain the oil through a fine mesh filter into a clean jar. Avoid squeezing the cannabis, as this can introduce bitterness.
Mini FAQ: Key Points to Remember
Do I need to decarboxylate even if I’m baking with the oil?
Yes. Baking temperatures often don’t fully decarb the cannabis, so it’s essential to decarboxylate first for maximum potency.
Can I use cannabis trim or stems?
While cannabis flower is ideal for potency and flavor, trim can be used.
What if my oil solidifies?
Coconut oil solidifies at temperatures below 24°C (76°F). Simply warm it gently to return it to a liquid state.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store your cannabis-infused coconut oil in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place.
- At room temperature, it will last for up to 2 months. In the fridge, it can last for 6+ months.
- Always label your jar clearly so you can track dosage and potency.
How to Use Cannabis Coconut Oil
Cannabis-infused coconut oil is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
- Baking: Substitute for butter or regular oil in recipes like cookies, cakes, or brownies.
- Wellness Recipes: Add to smoothies, tea, or coffee for an easy way to incorporate cannabinoids into your routine.
- Body Care: Use in homemade lotions, salves, or balms.
- Cooking: Drizzle over roasted vegetables, stir into soups or curries, or use in salad dressings.
Dosage Tip:
Always start with ½ teaspoon to gauge the potency and effects of your infused oil. Adjust the amount as needed based on your tolerance and desired effect.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make cannabis-infused coconut oil, you’re ready to experiment with a wide range of recipes, from edibles to other recipes or even body care products. The herb cooker makes this process easy and efficient, ensuring consistent results every time.
This oil is a foundational ingredient for anyone serious about cannabis cooking, and mastering it gives you a lot of flexibility in creating cannabis-infused dishes and wellness routines.
Happy infusing!
Last reviewed: April 2026
Not sure which coconut oil to buy? Read MCT vs refined vs unrefined coconut oil for edibles.