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18-03-2024 08:00:00 - Updated: 18 March, 2024
In the growing world of marijuana, cannabis alcohol stands out as an intriguing alternative. Through this article, we will delve into its characteristics, properties, benefits, contraindications, and applications, as well as how to prepare it in the best way, providing a comprehensive perspective for cannabis enthusiasts.
What is Cannabis Alcohol?
Cannabis alcohol is a substance obtained by infusing cannabis in alcohol. This technique, used for centuries, extracts the active components of cannabis, such as THC and CBD, resulting in a potent and versatile liquid. Historically, cannabis alcohol has had medicinal and recreational uses, reflecting the rich history of the cannabis plant.
What is Cannabis Alcohol Used For?
Cannabis alcohol has been historically used for both medicinal and recreational purposes. Its versatility lies in the ease with which it can be incorporated into a variety of products and applications. Below, I detail some of the most common and creative uses of cannabis alcohol:
- Medicinal Tinctures: One of the most traditional applications of cannabis alcohol is in the form of a tincture. Tinctures are solutions in which cannabinoids have been extracted in alcohol. They are especially valued for their precise dosing and as a non-smoked alternative for cannabis consumption. They are used to treat a variety of conditions, from chronic pain to anxiety and insomnia.
- Incorporation into Food and Beverages: Cannabis alcohol can be used to infuse food and beverages. For example, it can be added to sauces, desserts, and cocktails to create cannabis edibles. It is important to note that the effect of cannabis consumed in this way can be more potent and delayed compared to smoking or vaporizing.
- Topical Use: Some people use cannabis alcohol to create topical products such as creams, balms, or oils. These can be useful for treating localized pain, inflammation, and other skin issues, as cannabinoids can have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
- Aromatherapy and Cosmetics: In the realm of beauty and wellness, cannabis alcohol can be an ingredient in aromatherapy products or cosmetics. However, its use in these products depends on the legality and specific regulations of each country.
- Research and Development of New Products: Cannabis alcohol is also used in research to develop new pharmaceutical and therapeutic products. Its ability to dissolve cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds makes it ideal for experimentation and formulation.
Important Considerations:
- Dosage and Potency: Due to its high concentration, careful dosing of cannabis alcohol is crucial. A small error in the amount can lead to unwanted effects. It is always advisable to start with low doses, especially for those new to its use.
- Storage and Shelf Life: Cannabis alcohol should be stored in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency. Additionally, it is important to consider the shelf life of the product to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
- Education and Responsibility: As with any cannabis product, it is essential to educate oneself about its effects and use it responsibly. Consulting with a health professional before use is always good practice, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Benefits, Properties, and Contraindications of Cannabis Alcohol
Cannabis alcohol is recognized for its therapeutic properties and offers a number of benefits that differentiate it from other forms of cannabis consumption. Expanding the information:
- Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cannabis alcohol is highly valued for its effectiveness in pain relief and inflammation reduction. This is particularly useful for people suffering from conditions such as arthritis, chronic muscle pains, or inflammations derived from various diseases.
- Absorption and Prolonged Effect: Unlike smoked or vaporized cannabis, the one consumed in the form of alcohol (tincture) may offer a more prolonged effect. This is because cannabinoids are absorbed differently in the body when ingested, which can result in a slower and more sustained release of their effects.
- Versatility in Dosage: Cannabis alcohol allows for precise and controlled dosing. This is especially important for therapeutic purposes, where dose regulation is key to the effective treatment of various conditions.
- Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Benefits: Some studies suggest that the cannabinoids present in cannabis alcohol may have neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. This could be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of certain neurodegenerative diseases.
- Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects: Cannabis alcohol has also been used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Cannabinoids can interact with receptors in the brain that regulate mood and anxiety, providing a calming effect.
- Sleep Improvement: For those struggling with insomnia or sleep disruption, cannabis alcohol can be an effective alternative. It can help regulate sleep patterns and promote a deeper and more restorative rest.
- Absence of Smoke Exposure: By consuming cannabis in the form of alcohol, inhalation of smoke is avoided, which can be beneficial for people with respiratory issues or for those who prefer to avoid the risks associated with smoking.
Important Considerations:
- Individual Differences in Response: It is important to note that the effects of cannabis alcohol can vary considerably from one person to another, due to factors such as individual tolerance, body chemistry, and product potency.
- Interaction with Medications: As with any therapeutic product, there is the possibility of interactions with other medications. It is recommended to consult with a health professional before using cannabis alcohol, especially if you are taking other medications.
- Negative Points: Cannabis can negatively affect memory, and alcohol causes dependency in addition to other health problems, especially liver-related ones.
- Research and Scientific Evidence: Although there is anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies on the benefits of cannabis alcohol, more scientific research is needed to fully understand its effects and therapeutic potential.
Legality and Regulations
The legality of cannabis alcohol varies by country and region. It is essential to inform oneself about local laws before its preparation or consumption. In many places, its use is regulated similarly to other cannabis products, so they can be freely purchased as long as they do not contain more than 0.2% THC.
How to Prepare Cannabis Alcohol at Home
Preparing cannabis alcohol at home is a process that requires precision and caution. Below, I detail the steps and important considerations for carrying out this procedure:
- Selection of Cannabis: Choose a cannabis strain that suits your needs and preferences, taking into account the different levels of THC and CBD. Here you can see the best marijuana seeds on the market. If you want to save time and effort, you can also buy CBD flowers and make a cannabis alcohol rich in cannabidiol.
- Decarboxylation: Before infusing the cannabis in alcohol, it is crucial to decarboxylate it. This process involves heating the cannabis at a low and controlled temperature to activate cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Decarboxylation can be done in an oven, heating the ground cannabis at a temperature of about 110-120°C (230-250°F) for approximately 40 to 45 minutes.
- Selection of Alcohol: Use a high-proof alcohol, such as pure ethyl alcohol (ethanol) of food grade. The alcohol percentage should be at least 60% for effective extraction.
- Infusion: Place the decarboxylated cannabis in a glass jar and cover completely with the alcohol. Seal the jar and leave it in a cool, dark place. The duration of the infusion varies according to personal preferences and can range from a few days to several weeks. Shake the jar daily to aid in the extraction process.
- Filtration: Once the infusion is complete, filter the mixture to separate the liquid from the plant remains. You can use a fine strainer, a 25-micron Ice-O-Lator mesh or 45 microns, or coffee filters. Make sure to squeeze all the liquid from the plant material.
- Storage: Store the cannabis alcohol in dark glass jars to protect it from light. The storage place should be cool and dark to preserve its potency.
Safety Considerations:
- Ventilation: Ensure that your work area is well ventilated during the decarboxylation process and preparation, as alcohol vapors can be flammable.
- Protective Equipment: Use gloves and protective glasses, especially during filtration and handling of alcohol.
- Careful Dosing: When using cannabis alcohol, start with small doses to assess its potency and effect, and adjust as necessary.
Conclusion
Cannabis alcohol is a fascinating variant in the world of marijuana, offering a variety of uses and benefits. However, its consumption must be informed and responsible, always respecting legality and dosing recommendations. Now that you know everything you needed to know about cannabis alcohol, I leave you with this other article that talks about how to make homemade cannabis liquor. If you liked this article, I hope you share it on your social networks so that this information can spread as much as possible.
