De-Carb & Infusion (for Lucy)

What Is Decarboxylation?

Decarboxylation refers to the process of heating cannabis and hemp to activate the cannabinoids within its buds, trim, leaves, or kief. Decarboxylating, or “decarbing,” cannabis, in essence, makes consumers experience the plant’s unique and intoxicating effects by using its active components.

Primarily, decarbing methods target cannabinoid acids, also known as inactive cannabinoids, found in the plant’s trichomes. Trichomes are mainly found on cannabis flowers, but can also be found in smaller quantities in leaves and stems.

When cannabis matter undergoes the heating process, the cannabinoid acids’ molecular structure changes. When decarboxylated, the acids lose one carboxyl group (-COOH) as carbon dioxide while retaining one hydrogen atom.

Cannabinoid acids have 22 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and four oxygen atoms. The carboxyl group lost consists of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms (CO2). When this carboxyl group is removed, the molecular mass of THCA, for instance, decreases by about 12 percent turning into the active THC compound.

When activated, cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body including the central and peripheral nervous system. A handful of major and minor cannabinoids produce varying effects in the body ranging from euphoria to relaxation.

https://blog.lunatechequipment.com/cannabis-decarboxylation