Quick Reference: Cannabis-to-Solvent Ratios
Mild Strength
- 7g cannabis per cup
- ~30-50mg THC/oz*
- Good for beginners
Medium Strength
- 14g cannabis per cup
- ~60-100mg THC/oz*
- Standard potency
Strong
- 28g cannabis per cup
- ~120-200mg THC/oz*
- Experienced users
*Assumes 15% THC cannabis, 88% decarb efficiency, 80% infusion efficiency
Choosing Your Infusion Method
Butter (Traditional Cannabutter)
- Pros: Familiar for baking, great taste
- Cons: Shorter shelf life, more impurities
- Best for: Baked goods, traditional recipes
- Temperature: 160-180°F (71-82°C)
- Time: 2-3 hours
Coconut Oil
- Pros: High fat content (better absorption), longer shelf life
- Cons: Coconut taste (unless refined)
- Best for: General purpose, vegan options
- Temperature: 160-180°F (71-82°C)
- Time: 2-4 hours
MCT Oil
- Pros: Fastest absorption, liquid at room temp
- Cons: More expensive
- Best for: Tinctures, sublingual use
- Temperature: 160-180°F (71-82°C)
- Time: 2-3 hours
Alcohol (Tincture)
- Pros: Long shelf life, fast absorption
- Cons: Harsh taste, flammable
- Best for: Drops, drinks, precise dosing
- Method: Cold (2-3 weeks) or warm (4-6 hours)
Step-by-Step Infusion Guide
Preparation
- Decarboxylate cannabis first (see our decarb guide)
- Gather materials:
- Double-boiler or slow cooker
- Thermometer
- Cheesecloth
- Storage container
- Choose your ratio from chart above
Double-Boiler Method (recommended)
- Fill bottom pot with water
- Place butter/oil in top pot
- Heat to 160-180°F (71-82°C)
- Add decarbed cannabis
- Maintain temperature, stir occasionally
- Infuse 2-3 hours (longer for stronger)
- Strain through cheesecloth
Slow Cooker Method
- Set to LOW (check temp reaches ~160-180°F)
- Add butter/oil and cannabis
- Cover and cook 4-6 hours
- Stir occasionally
- Strain through cheesecloth
Mason Jar Method (minimal smell)
- Place ingredients in oven-safe mason jar
- Put jar in water bath (slow cooker or pot)
- Maintain 160-180°F for 4 hours
- Shake jar occasionally
- Strain when cool enough to handle
Pro Tips
- ✓ Add lecithin (1 tsp per cup) to increase bioavailability
- ✓ Never exceed 200°F to preserve THC
- ✓ Water cure butter to improve taste
- ✓ Store in dark glass or opaque container
- ✓ Label with date and potency
Storage Guidelines
- Butter: 2 weeks refrigerated, 6 months frozen
- Coconut Oil: 2 months room temp (dark), 6+ months refrigerated
- MCT Oil: 6+ months room temperature
- Tinctures: 1+ year room temperature (dark storage)
Calculate Your Potency
Use our calculator to determine exact THC content and serving sizes: