Reader Questions: Should I use “raw” or “dried” cannabis to make CBDA?
Confused about CBDA? Let's clear that up.
A Canna-Curious reader asks:
Should I use “raw” or “dry” cannabis to make something with CBDA (as an end result)?
I see the issue here. Many people, including myself, refer to un-dercarboxylated cannabis as “raw,” even if it is also “dry”.
So, basically, dried cannabis can also be called “raw” as long as it has not been decarboxylated.
Fresh cannabis or hemp that has not been dried can also be called “raw” so I can see how confusing that is.
Fresh high CBD cannabis, eaten without cooking it, will provide the eater with CBDA- this is one of the benefits of juicing fresh, “raw” cannabis leaves and flowers, getting the un-decarboxylated cannabinoids from the fresh plant.
Ok, let’s get practical and describe how to make a high CBDA oil infusion or alcohol tincture.
How to make a CBDA oil infusion:
Use dried, un-decarboxylated cannabis flowers, trim, or an undecarboxylated CBD concentrate.
Combine with an edible oil, in a clean canning jar and heat gently (temps should not exceed 180 degrees F) in a water bath/double boiler, water-filled crock pot or instant pot on “Warm”/”Keep Warm” for 4-6 hours, adding water as needed. Alternatively, put your infusion the Ardent FX and press the “infuse” button (save $30 off an Ardent FX with code CANNACURIOUS at ardent.com).
Strain and bottle your CBDA oil infusion.
How to make a CBDA alcohol extract:
In a canning jar, combine your CBDA plant material or concentrate with food-grade, high-proof alcohol, do not use isopropyl or denatured alcohol in an extract you intend to consume.
Close the jar and shake for 3-5 minutes.
Strain the alcohol out, leaving the spent plant material behind.
Bottle the alcohol CBDA extract.
I hope that answers your question and gets some CBDA into your life ASAP.
