How to Make Cannabis Infused Olive Oil: 4 Techniques, Tips, Tricks, And More

Do you want to add a little extra buzz to your culinary creations? Cannabis-infused olive oil is the secret ingredient you're looking for. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, crafting your cannabis at home is easier than you might think. 

But before you dive into the recipe, let's explore why olive oil is the perfect base for your cannabis infusion adventures. We’ll then look at how to dose your canna oil perfectly and which strain to use. Finally, we’ll discuss several techniques for making this at home. Let’s get started. 

What Makes Olive Oil a Good Base Oil to Infuse Cannabis?

For making cannabis oil, you can use a variety of oils, depending on your preferences and taste. Some of your options include coconut oil, walnut oil, rapeseed oil, and olive oil. You can pick the one you like depending on what you are looking for in terms of texture, potency, and flavor. 

If you ask us, we’d usually go for olive oil. Seriously, what’s not to love? Olive oil is amazing — there’s a reason it’s added to a variety of foods. It brings certain characteristics that make it special and a favorite in our recipe books. 

For instance, olive oil has a unique fruity and nutty flavor profile that adds a subtle touch to whatever food you add it to, especially Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Plus, you can find olive oil anywhere in various options — you get to pick the best for yourself. 

Olive oil does have one downside, though. It does not fuse with cannabinoids as well as other carrier oils like coconut oil. Still, it is rich in monosaturated fat that provides a decent potency for cannabis oils nonetheless. Plus, olive oil is healthy, making it an excellent addition to salads, sauces, and virtually everything else. 

Find the Right Cannabis Strain 

We’ve picked olive oil, and now it’s time to pick the right cannabis strain. Many infusers don’t think about this but the strain you pick matters a lot for how the final cannabisoil turns out. It influences the potency, flavor, and quality of high. 

So, which cannabis strain should you pick? Since we’re doing culinary business here, pick a strain that has a rich flavor and aroma profile — something that you personally enjoy. Cannabis buds contain terpenes that give them this flavor and aroma — ranging from diesel to flowers — pick your favorite. 

Then, you need to figure out what your goals are — why are you consuming cannabis-infused olive oil? Is it to get high or for medicinal purposes? Considering that, pick a strain that’s either rich in CBD or THC. CBD won’t get you high and THC will knock your socks off. 

The Best Cannabis to Olive Oil Ratio 

The next step is to figure out the ratio you want for your cannabis and olive oil. Essentially, the ratio speaks for how much cannabis you mix with the oil. This again depends on personal preferences, but if you’re just starting out, it can be a bit confusing. 

Many users start with a 1:1 ratio of cannabis to olive oil. It’s a common starting point and usually works for most people; it’s also pretty versatile — you can use it for cooking or topical applications. 

If you’re seeking milder effects compared to this, you can even go with a 2:1 ratio of olive oil to cannabis. The canna oil you get eventually will be mild and more versatile for cooking unless you’re going for the cannabis flavor. This is the ratio we recommend for new users since the milder high has fewer chances of overwhelming you. 

We wouldn’t recommend adding two-part cannabis to one part olive oil, though. That would be overkill and the base oil will not absorb the cannabinoids efficiently — it will be saturated. Plus, the cannabis flavor can be overwhelming sometimes. 

Various Infusion Methods to Make Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil

There are multiple techniques for infusing cannabis into olive oil, each offering advantages. The slow cooker method, double boiler method, and mason jar method are among some of the many options. Let's delve into each approach in detail, so you can choose one you like. 

But, before we begin, there’s something you need to know. And, this is common for every technique you choose. Before you start making the oil, you need to activate the cannabinoids first. This process is known as decarboxylation. 

Decarboxylation

The first step, regardless of the method you choose, is to decarb your cannabis. This is where you convert THCA into THC — it’s an important step, so don’t skip it. If you don’t decarb your cannabis, you won’t get high at all. So, whenever you’re infusing cannabis with edibles, you must decarb your cannabis. 

The best method to decarb your cannabis is by baking it at 240°F (116°C) for around 40 minutes. But don’t just toss buds in the oven; you need to break them up or grind them into medium-sized pieces, and then spread them on a baking sheet evenly. This will ensure an even decarbing process for your cannabis. 

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s explore a few common techniques to infuse cannabis with olive oil. 

1. Slow Cooker Technique 

The slow cooker method stands out as a dependable way to infuse cannabis into oil by ensuring consistent heat levels while minimizing the risk of overheating or compromising the cannabinoids’ effectiveness.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Slow cooker
• Cannabis that has been decarboxylated
• Cheesecloth or fine strainer
• Glass jar for storage

Instructions

• Mix Ingredients: Combine the cannabis and olive oil in the cooker. A common ratio is 1 ounce (28 grams) of cannabis to 2 cups (480 ml) of olive oil. Adjust based on your preference for potency.
• Heat the Mixture: Set the cooker to low or warm, keeping the temperature between 160-200°F (71 to 93°C). Heat the mixture for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally for infusion.
• Strain the Oil: Once infused, allow it to cool slightly. Use a cheesecloth or strainer to separate the plant material from the oil. Squeeze out as much oil as you can from the cloth.
• Store Properly: Transfer the oil into a glass container. Seal it tightly before storing it in a cool dark place.

The method described above is good even for large batches if you want to make them. It also allows for consistent temperatures without the risk of burning the cannabis and cannabinoids. The only con is that it requires a slow cooker, and many people may not have it. Don't forget to monitor the rice cooker frequently. 

2. Double Boiler Method 

This is one of the easiest and most practical ways to make cannabis-infused concoctions, especially if you don't have access to fancy items like rice cookers. Even if you don't have a crock pot, you can rely on a double boiler. Double boilers are available in many stores but the simplicity of this technique is that you can make one yourself. All you need is a pot and a container that fits on top of it. Voila! You have a double boiler. 

Ingredients

• Pot of water
• Heatproof container or bowl 
• Decarboxylated cannabis 
• Olive oil
• Strainer or cheesecloth

Instructions

• Prepare your double boiler: Pour some water into the pot but don't fill it up completely. A quarter portion is enough. Now introduce heat to the pot and wait until the water starts boiling. Turn the heat to low. 
• Prepare your infusion: Mix olive oil and cannabis in the bowl. Unless you're following some specific recipe, mix in two cups of olive oil to an ounce of cannabis. Place the bowl on top of the pot. 
• Heat the oil: The water in the pot will be boiling and you'll see that the oil on the bowl will start to get warm as well. As there's no direct heat involved, this will take a long while. Sometimes, it may take more than 3 hours but the olive oil would have sucked up a fair amount of cannabinoids by then. 
• Strain: Once the olive oil changes color and you're convinced that it has absorbed most of the cannabinoids, you can strain the mixture through a strainer or cheesecloth. Squeeze out all the oil. 
• Store the oil: Pour the oil into a nice glass bottle and seal it well. 

The best part of using a double boiler to make your infused oil is that it's easy to do, and almost anyone can do it. The cannabinoids also don't get burned because they aren't introduced to direct heat at all. However, one disadvantage is that it's very slow and takes quite a bit of time for the olive oil to heat up. If you're patient, though, it's one of the easiest techniques.

3. Mason Jar Method

The mason jar technique is one of the most basic ways to infuse cannabis into olive oil for those without specialized tools.

Ingredients

• Mason jar with lid
• Olive oil
• Decarboxylated cannabis
• Saucepan
• Cheesecloth or fine strainer

Instructions

• Combine ingredients: Place the cannabis and olive oil in a mason jar. Seal the jar tightly. Again, you can mix two cups of olive oil with an ounce of cannabis for the best results.
• Heat the mixture: Place a saucepan filled with water on the stove and heat it until it simmers gently. Put the mason jar into the water making sure the water level is below the lid to avoid any water from getting inside the jar.
• Simmer the mixture: Let the mix simmer for a while. Heat the jar for 2-3 hours, giving it a shake now and then for even infusion. Maintain the temperature between 160-200°F (71-93°C).
• Filter out the oil: Allow the jar to cool slightly. Then, use a cheesecloth or fine strainer to separate the plant material from the oil. Squeeze out oil as you can from the cheesecloth.
• Store your oil: Transfer the filtered oil into a clean mason jar or bottle. Seal it tightly. Store it in a dark, dry place.

As you can see, you don't need any sophisticated equipment to infuse olive with cannabis if you're using the Mason jar method. If you watch the temperature carefully, you'll do fine. Also, make sure the water doesn't get into the Mason jar or your oil will go rancid very soon. 

4. Crockpot Method

If you have a crockpot at home, making cannabis-infused olive oil is pretty simple and stress-free too. You don’t have to worry about the cannabinoids getting burned at all as the crockpot takes care of everything. 

Ingredients 

• 10 grams of ground cannabis buds 
• 250 ml olive oil 
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Oven 
• Cheesecloth 
• Crockpot
• Grinder 
• Pan or pot 
• Glass containers 

Instructions

• Mix Cannabis with Olive Oil: Take a mason jar and add both cannabis and olive oil to it. Make sure the jar is sealable and leave at least an inch of room at the jar’s top once the lid is shut. Also, do not fully tighten the lid just yet. 
• Add the mixture to the crockpot: Now it’s time to use the crock pot to heat the infusion. Both require low heat, which is why a crockpot is the recommended option. Add a dishcloth at the pot’s base and place the mason jar on it. Then fill the pot with water; ensure it covers the jar.
• Cook the infusion: It’s wise to use a thermometer — preferably digital — here if you want to be sure about the cooking process. Regardless, you need to adjust the slow cooker on a medium-high setting and wait till the water gets to 185°F. You can then set the crock pot on low settings and let the infusion cook for two hours. If you don’t have a crock pot, you can use something else too but be careful and ensure the mason jar does not crack due to heat. 
• Remove the Jar: After two hours, take off the jar from the crock pot and set it aside until it cools down. 
• Strain the Infusion: The final step is to strain the infusion. Here, you want to use a cheesecloth or strainer to remove the cannabis flower pulp from the infusion. Once you filter it all out, you’ll be left with cannabis-infused olive oil. Congratulations! 

By mastering these infusion techniques you can create top-quality cannabis-infused olive oil that suits your preferences and needs perfectly. Each method comes with its advantages and disadvantages, allowing you to pick one that aligns well with your equipment and desired batch size.

Tips for Storing Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil

It's important to store your cannabis-infused olive oil properly to prevent it from going rancid and maintain its potency, taste, and quality. Following these guidelines will help you preserve the properties of both the oil and cannabis, ensuring that your infusion remains effective and enjoyable for a longer period.

• Choose a good Container

Exposure to UV light can break down cannabinoids and oxidize the olive oil, leading to a loss of potency and nutritional benefits. To prevent this, use colored glass bottles like amber or cobalt blue to protect the oil from damage.

In any case, choose glass bottles as glass is chemically inert and won't react with the oil, thereby preventing any chemicals from seeping into your infusion. Avoid plastic containers as they may interact with the oil and cannabinoids over time.

If possible, use glass bottles or containers with secure airtight seals as air exposure can trigger oxidation that diminishes the quality of both the oil and cannabinoids. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from getting in and to keep the contents fresh for a long time. 

• Store in a cool, dry, and dark area

Temperature plays a huge role in keeping the oil fresh, so any cool and dark area with temperatures ranging between 60 to 70°F (15-21°C) will work well. Warmer conditions can speed up the oil's degradation process, so keep it away from heat sources like stoves, ovens, or direct sunlight.

For prolonged storage, store the oil in the fridge. Yes, olive oil, like many oils, will start to solidify in the fridge but it will return to a liquid state at room temperature without compromising quality. This method can help preserve the infusion for long periods. 

If you don't want to use the fridge, store your oil in a cabinet or pantry away from any light sources. 

• Track the shelf life

Good-quality extra virgin olive oil typically remains fresh for 18-24 months from its harvest date. Thus, you should use your infused oil within this timeframe to maintain freshness and potency.

Also, make sure to label your container with the infusion date to monitor its age accurately. This practice will assist you in tracking its shelf life and using it before any degradation occurs.

Keep an eye on any signs of spoilage. For example, if there are any indications of a bad smell reminiscent of crayons or putty and a sour or bitter flavor, it's time to toss out the oil. You can also consider the potency. As cannabinoids deteriorate, their potency decreases. If you observe a decline in the effectiveness of your oil, it might be time to prepare a fresh batch.

• Prevent Contamination

Make sure that all tools and containers you use in the infusion process are properly cleaned and sanitized. This helps prevent the introduction of contaminants that could ruin the oil or impact its quality. Always wear gloves while making baked goods, including infused oil to prevent introducing bacteria or other impurities. This will also help you prevent mold or bacterial growth. 

• Managing Batches

If you don't use flavored oil frequently, consider making smaller batches so you can use them up quickly. This guarantees that you always have fresh potent oil available and minimizes the chances of waste due to spoilage. You'll also have the opportunity to experiment with different strains without committing a large amount of oil to just one batch. 

How to Use Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil?

Now that you have your cannabis-infused olive oil, you shouldn’t start adding it to everything. everything. Cannabis edibles take some time to hit, which makes many users consume a lot of them. They think it’s not producing the high… until it does. 

So, be cautious. For the first time, take some of the cannabis-infused olive oil and wait for an hour to see the kind of high it produces. This will give you an idea of how potent it is. Then, you can start adding it to your foods as per your preferences. 

Don’t be hasty. Don’t drink cannaoil straight up — probably not the best way to enjoy it. Instead, you can use it by adding it to a variety of dishes of your liking. Essentially, treat it as regular olive oil, and you’ll be good. 

Considering how versatile olive oil is, you can use it on lots of dishes, whether you’re cooking something healthy or indulgent. The sky is the limit here. 

You can also bake with cannabis-infused olive oil — it’s pretty popular. Replace your regular oil with this oil and start baking cookies, biscuits, and brownies. Do note that you may have to adjust the heat a bit so you don’t burn the oil; avoid exceeding 340°F during baking. 

Here are some creative ways to incorporate cannabis-infused olive oil into your cooking:

1. Salad Dressings

Create vinaigrettes by mixing the infused oil with vinegar, mustard, honey, and seasonings. Infuse herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme into the oil for herb-infused dressings.

2. Cooking and Sautéing

Enhance the flavor of vegetables by sautéing them in the infused oil. Add a fantastic touch by drizzling the oil over grilled or roasted meats, fish, or tofu. You can also drizzle the oil over your pasta, rice, or quinoa to elevate the taste and enjoy its therapeutic effects.

3. Baking

Swap oil or butter with cannabis-infused olive oil in recipes for cookies, brownies, cakes, and breads. This will ensure the distribution of cannabinoids throughout your baked goods for consistent effects.

4. Soups and Stews

Enhance your soups and stews by adding the oil just before serving to retain its strength and rich flavor. Or, you can try infusing your hummus or guacamole with the oil to enjoy it to your heart’s content. 

5. Dips and Spreads

Create a dip for bread by mixing the oil with balsamic vinegar and herbs.

6. Marinades

Use the oil as a marinade base blending it with garlic, herbs, and spices to add flavor to grilled or roasted meat and vegetables.

7. Sauces and Dressings

Make a cannabis-infused pesto by blending the oil with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Or, incorporate the oil into aioli or mayonnaise for a condiment with a cannabis twist.

8. Beverages

Boost your smoothies with a little oil for added nutritional benefits. You can also elevate your coffee or tea experience by stirring in a few drops of the special oil.

To incorporate cannabis-infused olive oil into your cooking, it's important to understand dosages and get creative with how you use it. This can elevate the flavors of your dishes and contribute to your well-being.

Dosage: How Much Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil Should You Use?

Proper dosing is essential when using cannabis-infused olive oil to ensure a pleasant experience. The correct dosage varies depending on several factors such as tolerance, the potency of the infusion, and the desired effects. Here are a few tips to help you understand and determine the dosage:

1. Assessing Infusion Potency

The strength of your cannabis-infused olive oil relies on the THC and CBD levels in the cannabis you have used. For instance, if your cannabis contains 20% THC, 1 gram of it will have 200 mg of THC.

Infusion Ratio: The ratio of cannabis to olive oil determines the potency. For example, infusing 1 gram of cannabis with 1 cup (240 ml) of olive oil, where the cannabis has 200 mg of THC means that the entire cup will contain 200 mg of THC.

2. Calculate dosage per serving

This step is to determine the THC/CBD content in the infusion. For example, if a cup of olive oil contains 200 mg of THC as mentioned above, you can figure out the dosage per serving based on how much oil you use. 

Serving Portion: If you use 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of the infused oil, then you need to divide the total amount of THC by the number of servings. So, for example, if you have 200 mg of THC, then dividing that by 16 (16 tablespoons in a cup) gives you 12.5 mg of THC per tablespoon.

3. Begin with a low dose and increase slowly

If you're new to using cannabis, start with a dose of around 2.5 to 5 mg of THC. This helps in understanding how your body responds to the infusion. If necessary, gradually increase the dosage in increments allowing sufficient time (about 1-2 hours) between doses to fully evaluate the effects.

4. Individual Variables to Consider

Regular cannabis users may need larger doses compared to those with low tolerance levels for similar effects. In addition, your body weight and metabolism can impact how cannabinoids are processed by your body. So, you may need bigger doses if you weigh more or have a faster metabolism.

Benefits of Combining Cannabis with Olive Oil

Mixing cannabis with olive oil brings together the health advantages of both elements resulting in a potent product that can elevate both cooking and healing purposes. Here's why olive oil infused with cannabis is great for you:

1. Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is well known for its health benefits as a component of the Mediterranean diet. It is packed with monounsaturated fats, which are good for the heart and can help lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, olive oil contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols which can combat inflammation and provide protection against illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.

2. Therapeutic Properties of Cannabis

Cannabis contains cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and play a role in regulating bodily functions, including pain management, mood regulation, appetite control, and immune response. Cannabinoids have inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and rheumatoid arthritis.

Also, CBD has been discovered to possess mood-lifting effects aiding in the treatment of anxiety and depression without causing the mind-altering impact of THC.

3. Improved Absorption Rate

When cannabis is mixed with olive oil, the nature of the oil enhances how well the body absorbs cannabinoids, thereby helping the body heal well from any potential issues and utilization of cannabinoids. 

4. Versatile

Cannabis-infused olive oil is highly adaptable and you can use it in many of your culinary adventures. From dressings to vegetables, meat, soup, and even pasta, you can use it for pretty much anything, providing an effortless and enjoyable approach to integrating the advantages of cannabis into your meals.

5. Natural and Health Conscious Choice

For those who love natural remedies, cannabis works like a godsend. And, combining it with olive oil seems like an even better choice as you can consume it easily. You only need to keep the dosage in mind but since you can't consume too much olive oil at once anyway, it helps to incorporate it easily into your life. Making your cannabis-infused olive oil at home allows you to control the quality and strength of the product ensuring it meets your health and wellness goals.

6. Customizing Potency

When infusing olive oil with cannabis on your own, you have the flexibility to adjust the potency based on your needs. This is especially helpful for users who need precise dosages to manage their conditions effectively. By regulating the amount of cannabis used in the infusion process you can create an oil that delivers the desired effects.

What Olive Oil Should You Choose for Making Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil?

There are many types of olive oil. One look at the grocery shelf will have you confused since there are all types ranging from cold-pressed pure ones to refined oils mixed with other types of olive oils. Plus, you gotta consider the cost. Extra virgin olive oils are super expensive.

So, which one should you choose? Here's a brief overview to help you decide. 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

EVOO is great for infusing cannabis. It stands out among the rest of the oils as it's extracted without any chemicals or excessive heat, preserving its natural flavors, antioxidants, and nutrients. 

It boasts high levels of monounsaturated fats, polyphenols, and vitamin E that contribute to its health advantages. These nutrients also amplify the effects of the cannabis infusion. The bold and intricate flavors of EVOO can complement the cannabis taste, thus enhancing the infused oil’s appeal for use in cooking.

To purchase good-quality EVOO, inspect the packed and expiry date and then select the oil. Freshly made oil will offer a robust flavor and superior nutritional content. Make sure the oil is cold-pressed to retain its quality and health benefits by extracting it without heat. Check for certifications to ensure it meets production standards for its region.

Virgin Olive Oil

The next best option is virgin olive oil. Although slightly lower in quality than EVOO, virgin olive oil still maintains great properties and flavors. While not as intense as EVOO, virgin olive oil offers a great taste for infusions. 

If you're choosing a good-quality virgin olive oil, it's 100% olive oil without any additives or mixtures. And, similar to EVOO, virgin olive oil is cold-pressed to preserve its beneficial characteristics. The only difference is that this oil goes through more processing compared to EVOO. 

Light or Pure Olive Oil

If you're tight on budget, you can go for light or pure olive oil as it provides a beautiful flavor, ideal for those who prefer a subtle olive taste in their dishes. These oils can withstand higher temperatures without smoking compared to EVOO, making them better suited for cooking methods that require heat. 

Just make sure the oil is pure and does not contain any additives. Typically these varieties are more refined, so ensuring their quality is essential. Keep in mind that light and pure olive oils may be mixtures of olive oil and virgin or extra virgin olive oil. Look for products with labels to know what you're purchasing.

Summary: How to Make Cannabis Infused Olive Oil: 4 Techniques, Tips, Tricks, And More

Now that you've mastered the art of making cannabis-infused olive oil, it's time to put your creation to good use. From savory dishes to sweet treats, the possibilities are endless. Just remember to start slow, as edibles can pack a potent punch. 

So, whether you're drizzling it over salads or baking it into brownies, enjoy your elevated culinary journey responsibly. Cheers to cooking with cannabis!

Selecting high-quality olive oil is essential when creating notch cannabis-infused olive oil. The type of olive oil you choose impacts not just the taste and nutritional content butalso  the effectiveness of the infusion process. Here's a helpful guide to assist you in picking out the olive oil for your cannabis infusion;