What is CBG?

CBG is shorthand for cannabigerol. This compound is one of many that are known as cannabinoids. In general, most commercially available cannabis strains are high in THC (the psycho-active compound in cannabis) but low in all other cannabinoids, including CBG. However, some breeders have created high CBG strains, such as Royal CBG Automatic, which possesses an average of 6-8% CBG.

How Is CBG Produced?

During the flowering stage, cannabis plants produce small structures on the exterior of flowers, called trichomes. These structures play many different roles for the plant, such as pest prevention and management, moisture retention, and UV ray protection. The ability to accomplish these tasks can be attributed to the physical structure of the trichome, but is more often attributed to the cannabinoids that they produce.

At the beginning stages of cannabinoid production, the cannabinoid CBGA (cannabigerolic acid) acts as the precursor for THCA, CBDA, and CBCA, among many other cannabinoids. CBGA starts as the most abundant cannabinoid, then eventually becomes minor as it gets converted. To obtain high amounts of CBG in the final product, the grower can go down two routes; either harvest very early in the flowering stage, which will stop the CBGA conversion from happening, but will result in poor yields, or grow seeds such as seedsman CBG #1, or CBG force, which have been genetically selected to avoid the conversion of CBGA.

How Does CBG Affect The Body?

CBG is a non-psychoactive substance. This means that when used (smoked, ingested, or applied topically), it will not get you ‘high’. In most cases, the effects that come from cannabinoids are due to how they react with the endocannabinoid system. The most commonly reported use for CBG is for depression and anxiety management. As CBG reacts with the body, it has the ability to help regulate mood and stress. Another widely reported use for CBG is management/ reduction of chronic pain.

CBG Over CBD

Currently, CBG is considered to be a better option for anti-inflammatory purposes compared to CBD or THC. Those affected by glaucoma have reported a reduction in intraocular eye pressure. CBG is also a great option for fighting insomnia. Taken before bed, CBG can have a powerful relaxing effect that can help put you to sleep and keep you asleep until the morning.

Recommended Strains

Growing your own CBG can be a rewarding and cost effective way to get your daily dose. Whether you grow for medicinal purposes or for recreational use, Multiverse Beans has a few strain recommendations for you:

• CBG Force Photo – Known for large yields and a stealthy terpene profile, this strain is an all around well balanced CBD strain.
• CBG#1 – With a profile of 16.9% CBG and flavors of tangy berries and a hint of citrus, this strain is a great choice for anyone needing something that can really knock out symptoms of pain while having a great and unique taste.
• Royal CBG Automatic – This strain contains about 6-8% CBG, but has only 0.08% THC. If you’ve tried cannabis for pain relief in the past, but the high THC content caused unwanted effects, then this is the strain for you. All of the benefits with none of the drawbacks that are caused by THC.

Contact Multiverse Beans

To learn more about CBG, or to buy cannabis seeds online, contact Multiverse Beans now.

Genetics & Origins

• Bubba Kush (Pre-‘98 Cut): Renowned for its narcotic body high, dense structure, and rich, mocha-earth terpene profile

• Gelato (Reversed): Adds dessert gas, resin production, and improved plant vigor

This hybrid brings depth, structure, and flavor-layered complexity, pushing Bubba’s legacy into the modern Gelato era.

Effects & Experience

• Heavy body high that eases tension and discomfort

• Keeps the mind clear, functional, and alert — perfect for work or focus-heavy tasks

• Smooth cerebral onset, followed by physical grounding and mellow euphoria

• Ideal for users who want pain relief or stress management without full sedation

• Day or night use depending on dose

Flavor & Aroma

• Inhale: Roasted coffee bean, creamy mocha, subtle earth

• Exhale: Sweet gas, dark chocolate, and cooling Gelato cream

• Finish: Dense and terp-rich, with notes of bitter cocoa and kushy spice

The flavor is intense, layered, and lingering, with dominant terpenes Myrcene, β-Caryophyllene, and α-Humulene, all contributing to a profile that’s relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and deeply satisfying.

Growing Information

Indoor:

• Flowering time: 9 weeks

• Compact, bushy growth — responds well to LST and topping

• Dense bud formation and thick fan leaves

• Keep air circulation strong to prevent mold in dense colas

• High resin content — ideal for solventless hash or BHO

Outdoor:

• Harvest: Late October

• Height: 150–170 cm

• Yield: Up to 650g/plant

• Handles colder nights well and puts on beautiful purples and blues toward harvest

• Very resilient in mid-latitude climates with good sunlight

Grow Tips:

• Ideal for Sea of Green (SoG) due to compact nature

• Defoliate lightly to allow airflow into dense canopies

• Expect strong aromas — carbon filter highly recommended

Medical & Recreational Benefits

• Helps manage chronic pain, stress, and muscle tension

• Functional body relief without drowsiness

• Good for mental clarity, motivation, and daytime wellness routines

• Suitable for microdosing, especially for newer users looking to avoid overwhelming mental effects

Why Choose Bubba Slush?

✅ Dark coffee meets creamy Gelato for a one-of-a-kind terp combo
✅ Strong but clear-headed high — versatile and functional
✅ Compact, beautiful plants with great yields and colors
✅ Balanced cannabinoid profile with notable CBD and CBG content
✅ Old-school Bubba depth with new-school Gelato structure

If you’re looking for something bold, balanced, and body-forward — Bubba Slush is it. Great smoke. Even better grow.

Throughout my never-ending interdimensional travels, I have yet to find a plant as dynamic as cannabis. There are thousands of different strains and cannabis seeds, all with their distinct personalities, including different THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) ratios. As the primary cannabinoids found in cannabis, these two are responsible for the potential psychoactive or medicinal effects that make weed so fascinating!

Cannabis seeds deliver all types of unique ratios of THC and CBD compounds, or cannabinoids. Let’s discover where these cannabinoids come from, the ratios they’re often found in, and what factors you, as a home grower, can control to positively affect them.

What Are THC And CBD?

As the most unique plant in the multiverse, cannabis seeds can develop well over 100 different cannabinoids and over 560 different compounds. Delta-9 THC and CBD are found in the highest abundance, along with the various terpenes we all know and love. [1][2]

The effects after consumption of THC are psychoactive, while CBD is known to give consumers a more medicinal, non-psychoactive feeling. This stems from the humanoid body’s own endocannabinoid receptors in the brain that can connect with these compounds after consumption and metabolization. [1]

How Do Cannabis Seeds Produce THC And CBD?

Over the last 50 years, humanoid researchers have done some amazing work in cannabis plant science. Cannabis seeds don’t contain any actual THC or CBD when dry; instead, they develop their acidic forms first—THCA and CBDA—during the cultivation process. Once exposed to heat via smoking, vaping, or baking, these acidic forms are “activated” to their psychoactive and potentially medicinal forms of THC and CBD. [2]

But before that happens, THCA and CBDA develop from the OG of cannabinoids—cannabigerol, or CBGA. Whichever prominent cannabinoid your cannabis seeds eventually develop into during cultivation depends on how the plant metabolizes a specific genetic enzyme that can take either form. [2]

However, for you, the home grower, the info is already out there on what cannabis strains are THC-dominant, CBD-rich, or a hybrid of both—you just need to do the research to find out which is which!

THC & CBD Cannabis Seed Ratios

You may already be familiar with all of the different types of cannabis seeds that growmies like my intergalactic buddy, Uncle Paulie, feature on Multiverse Beans. These include sativa, indica, hybrid, feminized, regular, photoperiod, and autoflower seeds. 

However, beyond that is the distinction of Type I -Type IV cannabis seeds and strains. These seeds are commonly known as THC-dominant, balanced, CBD-dominant, CBG-dominant, essentially hemp. Each type has unique cannabinoid concentrations, potential effects, and related strains. [3]

High THC & Low CBD Cannabis Seeds (Type I)

Cannabis seeds that contain high amounts of THC and lower amounts of CBD in their cannabinoid concentrations are known to many as Type I strains [3]. These fit the profile of many of both the classic and modern, psychoactive-first strains that the majority of cannabis consumers grow and enjoy! 

A lot of these types of cannabis seeds can eventually grow up to be psychoactive powerhouses that often clock in with anywhere from 20-30% THC these days. They are often found in ratios of 20:1 THC:CBD content. These include:

• GG#4 is a powerful hybrid strain that is a cross of Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel.  It’s known for its stinky, chocolatey, and insane resin production, which is full of THC-rich cannabinoids that often stick to the fingers like glue!
• Kush is an often bright green-to-purple variety of weed that has many different piney and gassy flavors, aromas, and strain varieties. However, no matter the strain, Kush is known for its THC-dominant, potentially sedative effects. Many Kush crosses, like the classic OG Kush Kush are hybrids that feature the best of THC-dominant, sativa, and indica potential. 
• Runtz strains are today’s most popular crosses. With a massive variety of crosses hitting the market every day, the THC-rich potential of this fruity, candy-like powerhouse can also deliver a wide scope of flavors and hybrid effects. 

Balanced THC:CBD Cannabis Seeds (Type II)

A little less prevalent in today’s THC-dominant cannabis seed and strain marketplace are Type II seeds that create a balanced cannabinoid ratio and potential effect. Often produced in 1:1 THC: CBD ratios, Type II strains promote the entourage effect, which is known to provide a more enhanced ability to fight inflammation and other ailments. [3] [4]

These seeds are primarily used to grow weed that produces a less intense THC high that is balanced by potential medicinal effects from its CBD-rich counterpart. Breeders have also been able to combine other less-known cannabinoids like THC-V and CBD-V to create other unique, balanced 1:1 strain types. Here are some great balanced seed choices to go Type II.

• CBD Skunk Haze is a classic, balanced strain from Amsterdam’s famous Dutch Passion Seed Company. This Cup-winning strain is capable of producing a relaxing, hybrid effect due to its 1:1 ratio. Aroma and flavor profiles are often reminiscent of either parent–spicy and hazy and/or fruity and skunky. 
• Afghan Pearl CBD hails from another legendary Amsterdam-based breeder, Sensi Seeds. This cross of Kush and Jamaican Pearl provides another balanced 1:1 experience for the consumer while pleasing the palate with fruity, dank, and earthy flavors. 
• Black Jack CBD is a balanced, 1:1 cross of Black Jack and a CBD-rich cut of Diesel, bred by Sweet Seeds. This hybrid is a nice grower capable of heavy yields full of lemon-citrus and incense-like terpene profiles. 

High CBD: Low THC Cannabis Seeds (Type III)

For some humanoids (and interdimensional beings), cannabis seeds and strains containing THC can often be too much, producing adverse reactions and a reluctance to try it again. That’s why Type III cannabis seeds are great–there are minimal to no psychoactive effects, and they are one of the top choices for potential medical use for so many purported ailments. 

Type III weed strains feature the highest in cannabidiol, while THC cannabinoids are very minimal and non-existent. Ratios for these can vary widely–some strains have 20:1 CBD:THC, while others may be more along the lines of something like 4:1. Strains like the few below are often go-tos for growers and consumers looking for possible medicinal relief without any fear or need of THC psychoactivity. [3]

• CBD OG is bred by my friends at Cali Connection and was a High Times Cannabis Cup winner in 2015. This high-cannabidiol gem is a hybrid that reportedly yields big harvests and can contain as much as 70% CBD at 2:1. 
• Doctor Seedsman CBD seeds are capable of a ridiculous 30:1 CBD:THC ratio. This Seedsman creation is known to produce plants capable of up to 20% cannabidiol with as little as 1% THC! This strain is a top pick for those seeking the potential of therapeutic effects.
• Treasure Island cannabis seeds by Sin City Seeds feature a unique 4:1 ratio with anywhere from 8-16% CBD and 2-4% THC come harvest time. These feminized photoperiod beans are known to have slight sativa-leaning effects that hang out in the background of a huge amount of CBD cannabinoid content. 

High CBG, Low THC Cannabis Seeds (Type IV)

The title above says it all–Type IV seeds are marvels of modern-day breeding that feature the cannabinoid CBG almost exclusively. CBG is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid capable of even more therapeutic possibilities for growers. 

Seeds options like Dutch Passion’s CBG Force are a great pick for any grower looking to dip their toes into the world of CBG or perhaps see what all the talk is in regards to its therapeutic potential. Growers will be rewarded with frosty, CBG-rich yields that can feature up to 15% CBG!

How Can a Grower Increase THC & CBD Levels?

Even though the cannabinoid content within a cannabis seed is genetically pre-determined, that doesn’t mean it will express the same way every time it’s grown. How you cultivate your weed plants is always super important to get the most potential out of your grow. While many growers focus on final harvest yields, it should really be potency and quality that matter most.

Genetics

Cannabis genetics are the first line of defense a grower has to ensure the highest levels of cannabinoids will be present come harvest time. Purchasing your cannabis seeds from a breeder or seed bank with a proven, respected reputation and solid online reviews helps gauge whether your genetics will deliver big on cannabinoid concentration and desired effects.

Growing Conditions

How efficiently you provide your cannabis plants with the proper growing conditions can pave the way for the maximum potential of your cannabinoid content. Utilizing nutrients, lights, and the growing environment the right way increases cannabinoid and terpene content. Allowing your plants to grow with vigor creates less stress and allows them to flourish to the finish line and beyond.

Harvest Timing

Knowing when the time is right for you to harvest your cannabis plants is super important to ensure all of the hard work you’ve done up to that point doesn’t go to waste! Harvesting early results in plants with more CBD and less psychoactive effects, whereas harvesting a little later means increased THC and psychoactivity. Harvest even later than that, and you may just find yourself dozing off regularly from the sleepy CBN-rich weed you just grew. 

Curing 

After determining the right time to chop your plants down—often based on trichome color—the final step is ensuring your buds are properly cured. Curing is when buds slowly dry and break down excess moisture and plant compounds. This process ensures your weed smells, tastes, and burns properly while delivering the cannabinoid effects it should.

The last thing you want is bland bud with no terpene profile, low potency, and that barely stays lit.

Curing cannabis properly can take up to 8 weeks if humidity levels are consistently maintained between 60–65% RH. Find the sweet spot:

• Curing too fast preserves bitter-tasting chlorophyll
  
• Curing too slow retains excess moisture that can cause mold

Enhance The Cannabinoid Ratio That Fits Your Needs

All the tools and factors you need as a home grower are in your hands. Knowing the breeder, strain, strain type (Type I–IV), and typical cannabinoid content ahead of time goes a long way.

Once you understand what kind of psychoactive or medicinal effects you want from the ratio of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids in your seed selection, you must then be aware of how you grow, harvest, and cure them in order to reach their maximum potential. Following these simple rules will ultimately lead you to enjoy this versatile plant as much as I do!

Contact Us

Not sure which cannabis seed strain or cannabinoid ratio is right for your goals? Whether you’re aiming for high THC, balanced CBD, or a unique Type III or IV variety, the team at Multiverse Beans is here to help. We’ll guide you through strain selection, breeder insights, and growing techniques to ensure your plants deliver the effects you’re looking for. Reach out today and take the guesswork out of finding your perfect cannabinoid profile.

References

1. Chayasirisobhon, S. (2020). Mechanisms of action and pharmacokinetics of cannabis. The Permanente Journal, 25, 1–3. https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/19.200
2. Chandra, S., Lata, H., & ElSohly, M. A. (2020). Propagation of cannabis for clinical research: An approach towards a modern herbal medicinal products development. Frontiers in Plant Science, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.00958
3. Márquez, F., Lozada, M., Idaszkin, Y. L., González-José, R., & Bigatti, G. (2022). Cannabis varieties can be distinguished by achene shape using geometric morphometrics. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 7(4), 409–414. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2020.0172
4. Christensen, C., Rose, M., Cornett, C., & Allesø, M. (2023). Decoding the postulated entourage effect of medicinal cannabis: What it is and what it isn’t. Biomedicines, 11(8), 2323. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11082323

Genetics & Origins

Thai x Panama is a carefully crafted hybrid that brings together two of the most celebrated tropical sativas.

Thai Chiang Mai contributes its untamed vigor, soaring highs, and long flowering cycles, while Panama strengthens the structure, increases resin and terpene production, and enhances adaptability to indoor and temperate climates.

By blending these two genetic powerhouses, this hybrid achieves a remarkable balance—offering the exhilarating cerebral rush of Thai with the denser bud structure and higher resin production of Panama. The result is a fast-finishing tropical sativa that performs well even outside equatorial regions.

Effects & Experience

This strain delivers an exceptional sativa experience:

• Euphoric & Uplifting: A rush of positivity and energy, perfect for daytime use
• Psychedelic & Dreamy: Expands the mind, creating vivid thoughts and introspective journeys
• Smooth & Pleasant: Unlike racier sativas, Thai x Panama is stimulating without excessive anxiety

It’s an excellent choice for creative work, deep conversations, and adventurous outdoor activities. Its high THC and CBG levels contribute to a long-lasting, dynamic experience with a clean, floaty comedown.

Flavor & Aroma

Thai x Panama presents a complex and refined flavor profile:

• Citrus & Spice: Lime and lemon zest with a peppery kick
• Earthy & Incense-like: Notes of aged wood and classic sativa spice
• Sweet & Creamy: Hints of vanilla and a smooth, musky undertone

The rich blend of terpenes makes this strain a sensory delight, offering an old-school tropical sativa experience with an added touch of creaminess and depth from the Panama influence.

Growing Information

Thai x Panama is one of the most grower-friendly tropical sativa hybrids, offering adaptability without sacrificing authenticity.

Indoor Cultivation:

• Requires strong light intensity and ample vertical space
• Best to switch to flowering after 15 days from seed or use clones rooted for at least 7 days
• Recommended 11/13 (light/dark) photoperiod to optimize flowering and reduce excessive stretching
• Ideal for SCROG, horizontal, or network training due to vigorous lateral branching
• Moderate nutrient needs in veg, increasing to moderate-high during peak flowering

Outdoor Cultivation:

• Excels in tropical, subtropical, and warm coastal climates
• Can be successfully grown in Mediterranean-like conditions up to 43º latitude
• Thrives with moderate feeding and a rich organic soil base
• Benefits from greenhouse protection in cooler regions

With a flowering time of 12-13 weeks indoors and a harvest window of late October to early November outdoors, Thai x Panama finishes significantly faster than traditional Thai landraces while still delivering a world-class sativa experience.

Medical & Recreational Benefits

Thanks to its potent yet balanced psychoactive effects, Thai x Panama is ideal for:
✔ Boosting mood and creativity
✔ Providing mental clarity and energy
✔ Enhancing sensory perception and introspection
✔ Offering a long-lasting cerebral experience with minimal body heaviness

Not recommended for those sensitive to strong sativas, as its high-energy nature can be overwhelming in large doses.

Why Choose This Strain?

✔ A refined blend of two legendary landrace sativas
✔ High yield and faster flowering than pure Thai genetics
✔ Potent, euphoric, and psychedelic effects with a smooth comedown
✔ Complex terpene profile with citrus, spice, wood, and vanilla notes
✔ Adaptable to both tropical and temperate climates

For those seeking an exceptional landrace-based sativa with modern refinements, Thai x Panama is an extraordinary choice.

Genetics & Origins

Honduras is a rare, heirloom landrace sativa, originating from the lush, tropical climates of Central America.

This strain has been preserved since 2015, maintaining its pure genetic lineage without hybridization.

Its structural traits resemble classic lowland Colombian sativas, known for their tall growth, long flowering times, and enormous yields.

However, its effect and terpene profile are more in line with old-school Mexican sativas, offering a clear-headed, uplifting high with an energetic edge reminiscent of African sativas.

Effects & Experience

• Clean, cerebral, and energizing, making it ideal for daytime activities, creativity, and socializing.
• No ceiling effect, meaning you can keep enjoying its buzz without feeling overwhelmed.
• No body fatigue or heavy comedown, making it great for long-lasting productivity.
• Can be quite stimulating—best suited for those who enjoy high-energy sativas.
• Not recommended for those with anxiety, heart conditions, or trouble sleeping.

Flavor & Aroma

• Floral, citrusy, and musky, with undertones of wood, geranium, and spice.
• Complex and layered terpene profile, dominated by terpinolene and myrcene, with alpha-pinene, limonene, and caryophyllene adding depth.
• Classic tropical sativa bouquet, reminiscent of Colombian Gold and old Mexican landraces.

Growing Information

Outdoor Cultivation:

• Best suited for tropical, subtropical, and warm coastal climates.
• Can thrive in Mediterranean-like climates with mild autumns.
• High resistance to heat, mold, and bud rot, making it ideal for humid environments.
• Finishes flowering in mid-November, so it requires a long season to fully mature.

Indoor Cultivation:

• Requires strong lighting and ample vertical space due to its tall growth.
• Best results with an 11/13 light cycle during flowering to encourage bud development and prevent excessive stretching.
• Excellent for SOG (Sea of Green) due to its heavy central cola production.
• Also thrives in SCROG (Screen of Green) setups, where its lateral branches can be fully utilized.

Nutrient Needs:

• Prefers light feeding in the vegetative stage with gradual increases in PK levels from week 3 of flowering.
• Avoids excessive nutrient burn and hermaphroditic tendencies when properly managed.

When cultivated correctly, Honduras rewards growers with massive yields of premium sativa flowers, making it a perfect breeding tool for hybrid development.

Medical & Recreational Benefits

• Great for boosting mood and motivation, helping combat apathy and fatigue.
• A strong choice for creative projects, music, and outdoor activities.
• Reported benefits for migraines, though effects may vary.

Why Choose This Strain?

Honduras is a rare, unspoiled sativa landrace, offering a unique, high-energy effect, massive yields, and outstanding resistance to tropical climates.

If you’re looking for a true heirloom sativa with a clear-headed high, intense vigor, and breeding potential, this is an outstanding choice for preservationists and sativa enthusiasts alike.

Genetics & Origins

Hokkaido Japan Hemp is a historically significant landrace, deeply rooted in Japan’s agricultural tradition.

Unlike European or Russian hemp varieties, this strain’s genetic profile suggests a closer relation to Chinese or Korean cannabis.

Though primarily cultivated for fiber, some plants still retain moderate cannabinoid production, offering unique breeding potential for CBD, THC, or CBG-rich selections.

Recent studies on this strain have identified three primary phenotypes based on their cannabinoid profiles:

1. Balanced (THC:CBD:CBG) – High CBD (~10%), moderate THC (~5.5%), high CBG (~3%)
2. CBD-Dominant – High CBD (9-12%), low THC (0.4-0.5%), low CBG (0.6-0.8%)
3. Industrial Hemp – Low CBD (~2%), trace THC (0.1%), minimal CBG

Effects & Experience

• Very mild psychoactivity, offering a subtle sense of relaxation and light euphoria.
• Low THC phenotypes provide functional clarity, suitable for daytime focus and productivity.
• Higher THC phenotypes may induce slight hilarity and an uplifting mood shift.

Flavor & Aroma

• Natural, earthy, and wild, with hints of geranium and mountain herbs.
• Most plants exhibit minimal terpene complexity, with only traces of alpha-pinene.
• Select phenotypes (Group A) develop richer, more appealing aromas with elevated terpene content.

Growing Information

Outdoor Cultivation:

• Thrives in both warm and cool climates, making it an ideal choice for temperate regions.
• Handles rain, cold, and humidity exceptionally well, minimizing the risk of mold or disease.
• Flowers early (August – September), ensuring a quick turnaround before harsh weather arrives.

Indoor Cultivation:

• Easy to grow with minimal intervention—ideal for preservationists and breeders.
• Best results with an 18/6 vegetative cycle, then transitioning to 14/10 and later 12/12 for flowering.
• Can be left to reflower if seeking higher cannabinoid expression.

Nutrient Needs:

• Moderate feeding throughout the cycle.
• Avoid high-dose flowering stimulators to reduce hermaphroditic tendencies in late bloom.

Medical & Recreational Benefits

• Potential for high-CBD selection, making it suitable for wellness applications.
• Some phenotypes offer mild psychoactivity, great for light relaxation and mood enhancement.
• Ideal for breeders looking to develop unique hemp strains with diverse cannabinoid ratios.

Why Choose This Strain?

Hokkaido Japan Hemp is a one-of-a-kind landrace, offering historical significance, resilience, and versatile breeding potential.

Whether you’re a collector, preservationist, or breeder, this strain provides a unique opportunity to work with a rare, untouched genetic line before it’s lost to modern hemp cultivation.

So you just got done with harvesting, trimming, and curing your bud–what are you gonna do with all of that leftover trim, larf, and kief? Here’s a wonderful idea–decarboxylate it! Decarba-who-woxalate what?

Decarboxylation–or simply just “decarb” for short–is the process of activating THCA and CBDA into active THC and CBD for use in whatever kind of cannabis creations you wish to make. There are many different ways to go about decarboxylation of different cannabinoids, so let’s go through them and see how you can successfully decarb all of your leftovers once you’ve trimmed your harvest.

What Exactly Is Decarbing Weed, And How Does It Work?

The science of cannabinoids is an interesting one. Popular cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBG can’t do their special things until they become activated from their original acidic states. If you’ve ever heard aliens or humanoids alike talking about THCA or CBDA and CBGA, it’s because that’s what cannabis is until you activate it, aka decarboxylate it.

When growing your weed plants, all potential psychoactive and therapeutic cannabinoids are contained primarily in the trichomes and other plant matter. Cannabis plants all start as CBGA and can eventually begin to metabolize into THCA or CBDA further along in their development. [1]

Fully mature and cured cannabis–when grown correctly–is typically very rich in either THCA or CBDA. These acidic cannabinoids can be converted to their activated THC and CBD forms once the right amount of heat is applied. Decarboxylation essentially means that you are removing a carbon atom from the genetic structure of the cannabinoid to activate it.

Smoking Activates Cannabinoids At High Temperatures

Cannabis consumers who smoke activate the THCA or CBDA into THC and CBD once the lighter is applied to the weed. High temperatures ranging from around 1000°F–650°F are in the zone by which cannabis begins to ignite for inhalation.

However, the main thing about combusting cannabis is that cannabinoids like THC and CBD become activated at around 315°F and 356°F, respectively. What that means is that when you smoke, you are applying much more heat than is necessary to get the potential therapeutic and psychoactive properties from these cannabinoids. This excessive heat leads to harmful byproducts like carbon monoxide in the smoke, along with degradation of other terpenes and cannabinoids. [2]

Vaping Activates Cannabinoids At Lower Temperatures

Vaporization of cannabis uses lower temperatures in the 320°F–450°F range to activate CBD and THC from their acidic forms. Vaporization uses lower heat that can be evenly applied compared to the higher, more random temperature ranges that smoking cannabis utilizes. The vapor created when using a dry herb vaporizer is free of any harmful byproducts and enhances the terpene and flavor as well. [2]

Using vape cartridges and pens is a whole other story, though. Vapes use the same lower temperatures to heat the hash oil as their dry herb brethren, however, studies have shown these devices to cause a host of respiratory and pulmonary issues for regular users. [3]

Decarboxylation Is The Same As Cooking Your Weed

To make edibles like magic brownies and gummies, or even medicinal tinctures, you must first decarboxylate the weed being used for the recipe. Otherwise, the digestive system and bloodstream aren’t going to be able to put the weed to any good use–it has to be activated for our endocannabinoid systems to interact with it. [4]

Devices To Cook Your Weed

Use Safe And Reliable Cookware

For the longest time, the act of decarbing weed has been a mostly DIY-type affair. How to decarb weed has always been up to the person doing the decarboxylation. Everything from glass casserole dishes to baking sheets has been used in some way, shape, or form to decarb.

The container being used should be made out of glass or metal that is meant as cookware that can safely be used in an oven already, so that it can hold up for use in decarbing. It’s also important to keep the pan or device covered with an oven-safe lid or aluminum foil to ensure enough heat during the process.

Precise Devices

These days, there’s a whole other host of devices ready to ensure precise decarboxylation for you. Some humanoid home chefs like to use their sous vide devices, mason jars, or vacuum-sealed bags to securely cook their weed at an even temperature in a bath of warm water. Others use a product known as an Instapot.

Meanwhile, devices specifically engineered for the decarboxylation of weed are fantastic choices to provide the most accurate temperatures during the decarb process. These devices can range from affordable to pricey but remove a lot of the guesswork and monitoring of temperatures out of the decarb process. They also make a great investment for anyone with a lot of plant material and a desire to DIY their own edibles, oils, tinctures, and lotions.

Use Your Trim, Larf, And Kief From Your Harvest

Chances are you’ve got an entire trim bin of dank, leftover plant material after your successful grow. If you’ve managed to make it out of trim jail in one piece and are curing your precious buds, all of that leftover trim, larf, and kief can be utilized by decarbing it. Post-harvest yields can be hefty, so there’s usually gonna be a lot!

Using the whole plant–i.e., trim, kief, leaves, stems, etc.–leads to a more full-spectrum effect once activated. Full spectrum means more therapeutic potential, chock full of various cannabinoids, terps, and other compounds like flavonoids. This is great for a more medicinal and well–rounded phenomenon known as the entourage effect. [5]

A full bag of trim from the weed plants you grew is always going to be special because you can put all parts of the plant to excellent use. However, if you’re not growing anything at the moment and want to make edibles, etc., you can use any type of weed you want!

How To Best Prepare Your Weed

Regardless of what you may have grown–CBD, THC, or some mix of both–there’s a lot of similarity between how to prepare it for a decarb. The same goes for whether you choose to use butter or a specific type of oil, like coconut butter, as the carrier oil the cannabinoids will bind to after the decarb is complete. Here is how to best prepare your weed for the decarb process.

• Use disposable gloves to handle plant material since the natural oils and resins of the weed plant are super sticky to the touch and can be hard to remove later. Keep those thumbs green!
  

• When using trim, use as much of the whole plant as possible to create the most beneficial spectrum of cannabinoids, terps, and flavonoids in your post-decarb creations. Use stems sparingly, keep only the frostiest sugar leaves, and break up all plant material by hand as much as possible to ensure maximum surface area coverage.
  

• If including kief in your decarb, be sure to keep it mixed in or concentrated on the top of the rest of your plant material. Kief tends to burn on hot surfaces during decarb, so doing this will help keep searing to a minimum.
  

• For whole flower buds, grind or break them up by hand as much as possible to cover better surface area during decarboxylation.
  

How To Decarb Your Weed For Edibles, Oils, And Tinctures

For the longest time, there was no real consensus on the most optimal and precise temperatures and durations to decarb the acidic forms of THC, CBD, and CBG into their active forms. Finally, a thorough study released in 2016 tested several temperature ranges and time durations on all 3 cannabinoids to determine the most optimal conditions to decarb them.

• THCA converts most optimally to THC at a steady rate of 230°F for about 45–50 minutes.
  

• CBDA at a steady temperature of 230°F for 50 minutes will also provide a full conversion to CBD.
  

• Not much of a surprise here: CBGA also converts best to CBG at a rate of 230°F for 50 minutes as well! [6]
  

Let’s Activate Some Weed!

Now that you know how to prepare your plant material, how long, and how hot you are going to decarb, it’s time to get started. If you don’t have a decarboxylation device designed specifically for this task, then gather some of the following tools around the house to begin:

• Baking or casserole dish
  

• Aluminum foil
  

• Oven timer
  

• Digital oven thermometer
  

• Oven gloves
  

• Spread the broken-up plant material evenly on the dish to ensure it decarbs consistently.
  

• Place any kief on top once spread out.
  

• Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
  

• Place in an already warm oven at any of the temps mentioned above. Do not disturb as much as possible or you will not be able to maintain a consistent temperature.
  

• Use a digital timer to ensure the correct amount of time.
  

• Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the dish with the oven gloves and let stand for about 10 minutes at minimum.
  

• Remove the foil, and start making edibles with your freshly cooked weed!

Tips For Using The Oven

• Ensure your oven is running at the correct temperature. Many home ovens are not calibrated precisely, and even though it may say it’s operating at 230°F, that may not be true.
  

• Use a digital oven thermometer inside the oven to base your decarb off of. A digital oven thermometer will give you the actual temperature inside your oven, leading to a more optimal activation.
  

• If using a baking dish or other decarb box made of oven-safe silicone, place the digital oven thermometer inside it and then in the oven first before adding your plant material. Once inserted, wait for the internal temperature of your dish to get up to 230°F, THEN take it out and add the plant material. This practice ensures your decarb will start right away instead of waiting for the dish or box to get up to temperature, which can throw the necessary duration of decarboxylation off. Be sure to use oven gloves to handle it!
  

• Ensure the plant material is broken up and spread evenly around the dish. Another thing to consider is to activate only 1–2 ounces of plant material at a time to also ensure a consistent decarb.
  

• Let the decarbed dish or box sit for at least 10 minutes while covered. Better yet, you can toss it into the freezer for 10–20 minutes and then remove it. This will help to preserve vital terpenes as a result.
  

Decarbing Trim And Plant Material Is Easy

Making your own edibles, oils, tinctures, and so much more is a big bonus of growing your own weed plants. Not only do you reap the rewards of a bountiful harvest full of big buds, but you also get to make your own medicine and edibles to share with family and friends of all different multiverses!

Home growers can use all parts of the weed plant and discover how truly easy it is to activate and utilize extra plant matter and trim in the most dynamic way possible!

Contact Us

Need help with your next harvest or questions about decarboxylation? Reach out to the cannabis cultivation experts at Multiverse Beans for support, tips, and more information on everything from THCA activation to making full-spectrum cannabis edibles.

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For more how-tos, growing guides, and insights into activating cannabinoids, check out more of the Multiverse Beans blog. Ready to create something magical with your harvest? Contact us today.

References

1. Calapai, F., Cardia, L., Esposito, E., Ammendolia, I., Mondello, C., Lo Giudice, R., Gangemi, S., Calapai, G., & Mannucci, C. (2022). Pharmacological aspects and biological effects of cannabigerol and its synthetic derivatives. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (eCAM), 2022, 3336516. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3336516
2. MacCallum, C. A., Lo, L. A., Pistawka, C. A., Christiansen, A., & Boivin, M. (2023). Cannabis vaporisation: Understanding products, devices and risks. Drug and Alcohol Review, 43(3), 732–745. https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13800
3. O’Callaghan, M., Boyle, N., Fabre, A., Keane, M. P., & McCarthy, C. (2022). Vaping-associated lung injury: A review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 58(3), 412. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58030412
4. Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2021). Review of the endocannabinoid system. Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, 6(6), 607–615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.016
5. Russo, E. B. (2019). The case for the entourage effect and conventional breeding of clinical cannabis: No “strain,” no gain. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9, Article 1969. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2018.01969
6. Wang, M., Wang, Y. H., Avula, B., Radwan, M. M., Wanas, A. S., van Antwerp, J., Parcher, J. F., ElSohly, M. A., & Khan, I. A. (2016). Decarboxylation study of acidic cannabinoids: A novel approach using ultra-high-performance supercritical fluid chromatography/photodiode array-mass spectrometry. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 262–271. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0020

Despite a lack of research regarding how cannabinoids react with the human body’s endocannabinoid system, cannabis has been unofficially accepted by many to have the potential for therapeutic treatment.

Cananbis has unofficially accepted by many to have the potential for therapeutic treatment, despite a lack of research regarding how cannabinoids react with the human body’s endocannabinoid system. 

While more sample group-based clinical studies are currently still underway, one placebo-based, single blind crossover study found correlations that show CBD-rich CBMPs could improve ill effects from Long COVID. The antioxidative potential of CBD to provide antiviral protection is also mentioned in studies that name CBD a top candidate to battle Long COVID. 

Available in either 5 or 10 AlphaFem™ Seeds

• TOTAL CANNABINOIDS: Over 35

• CBD: 1 / CBG: 3

• FLOWERING TIME

Indoor: 9 Weeks

Outdoor: Full season for best flower. Extraction peaks earlier.

• Effects: Intense and heavy. Indica-leaning.

Terpenes:  RICH and COMPLEX!! Her aroma is only outdone by her flavor. Sharp grapes and sweet citrus are accompanied by heavy Chem Dog flavor and several odd flavors. Chem D comes through as always with a musky, greasy flavor lasting down to the end. Some acrid aromas such as propane gas and “hooch” accompany the more citrusy pheno.

She grows like a champion, made to PRODUCE!

Heavy flower yields are easy to get on this low-maintenance, medium-height, strong, lateral plant.

She’s not just about flower yields, she tests and extracts HUGE in usable oils!  Extremely high in both cannabinoid and terpene percentages, she’s close to a perfect commercial plant for scale production regardless of end-game.

*Grape Diamonds is phenotype of Memberberry Rbx