There are tons of different ways to enjoy cannabis these days, including the classics (flower) and new school (edibles). One type of cannabis concentrate that has gained popularity in recent years is liquid THC. In this guide, you’ll learn about what it is, how it’s made, and how to use it.

What is Liquid THC?

Liquid THC is a highly potent cannabis product that results from extracting cannabinoids, mainly THC, from the plant material. Marijuana contains a chemical called delta-tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the main psychoactive in marijuana, and one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis. Liquid THC is often bottled and sold as tinctures or vape juice.

Making liquid THC can typically be done in lab settings by professional extractors, but there are ways of making it at home. Professionally extracted liquid THC may contain a 90 percent or greater concentration of THC. This is a much higher concentration than dry flower, which usually has THC concentration between 15 and 25 percent. For this reason, liquid THC users should exercise care when consuming. Those sensitive to THC or prone to anxiety should consider purchasing the less concentrated cannabis product.

How to Use Liquid THC

Liquid THC can be used in a wide range of ways. The following are three examples of such uses.

Vaping

Liquid THC, usually sold in a commercial form of vaping pens, is often used for those looking to quickly feel the effects. Compared with smoking dry marijuana flower, liquid THC provides an instant high without the unpleasant smell. This means liquids, such as THC, can be consumed more discreetly. Smoking typically uses larger amounts of the cannabinoid, so vaporizing at lower temperatures should reduce cannabinoid loss and lung irritation. It is important to note that the long-term effects have not been studied yet. When choosing to start smoking, it is important to consider all of the health risks.

Sublingual Method 

One of the most common ways for people to consume liquid THC is by using a dropper to place it under their tongues. The cannabidiol in cannabis oil can be brushed, sprinkled on top of food, or ingested as a tincture. This method is typically more effective for those who are looking to achieve maximum effects than simply taking liquid THC orally. The effects of liquid THC are felt quicker when it is taken sublingually. Hold the liquid under your tongue for 1-2 minutes before swallowing.

Edibles

A can of soda, a bag of chips, or even just a candy bar is all easy ways to medicate without getting high. One of the benefits of cannabis dissolved in liquid form is that most cannabinoids are already decarboxylated during production. When making dry flower-based edibles like brownies, gummies, and cheese straws, the cannabis must first be heated or “decarboxylated” before infusing it with a fat such as butter, coconut oil,

Adding Liquid THC to any recipe can be easier than using other methods of marijuana consumption. You can use this cannabis concentrate in smoothies, sauces, baked dishes, and much more. Keep in mind that most cannabinoids degrade when overheated, so avoid high temperatures. Be aware that edibles take longer to take effect and are more powerful than other options like vaping or taking under the tongue. Give yourself a minimum of 2 hours before considering increasing your dosage.

How to Make Liquid THC

Lab-tested THC products from reputable businesses are the best method of ensuring quality, but there are three different methods for making your liquid THC: hot, cold, or room temperature. Here’s a homemade juice recipe that uses alcohol, so it’s not an ideal option for those under the legal drinking age or anyone who likes to vape. It should only be taken sublingually (under your tongue) and never in foods that require cooking. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cannabis: It’s up to you how much cannabis liquid you will need to create your THC liquid. To calculate the THC content in your final product, you need to multiply the number of grams you’re working with by 1000 then multiply that by the percentage of THC. For example, a 5-gram dose of cannabis with 25% THC will contain 1,250 mg of liquid THC: 5(1)(.25)=1,250
• Alcohol: For best results, use high-proof neutral alcohol such as Everclear. Do not use isopropyl(rubbing) alcohol.
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Grinder or scissors
• Mason jar
• Cheesecloth or strainer bag
• If using the hot method, you will also need a saucepan and a digital kitchen thermometer.

Step 1: Grind and Decarboxylate

No matter which method you use, you’ll first need to decarboxylate cannabis to activate THC. Preheat your oven to 240°F/115°C. Using a grinder or scissors, coarsely grind or chop your cannabis until the pieces are about the size of a grain of rice. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly distribute the ground cannabis. Bake it for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes or so to ensure even cooking. The cannabis should look slightly crispy, but not burnt. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool down.

Step 2: Jar, Store, and Steep

Once cooled, place your ground cannabis in the Mason jar. Add enough alcohol to completely cover the plant matter. After 14-21 days, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth-lined coffee filter and store it in an airtight jar or container. Shake the jar every few days to help the cannabis and alcohol mix. When you’re ready, use a cheesecloth or strainer bag to separate the solid plant material from the liquid THC and store it in an airtight container.

Step 3 (Cold Method): Freeze, Shake, and Strain

To create kief using the cold method, place your jar in the freezer for one week. Remember to shake it once per day. Once ready, carefully remove all plant matter and store it in a tightly closed container.

Step 3 (Hot Method): Heat, Cool, and Strain

In the hot method, place a saucepan of simmering water on the stove. Add your jar to the water and use your digital thermometer to make sure that its contents remain below 170°F/76°C. If the mixture becomes too hot, reduce the stove’s heat. Continue to cook for 30 minutes. Let cool and strain any plant matter from the liquid THC.

Step 4: Preserve and Store

To prevent the cannabinoids from breaking down, place your liquid THC in a cool, dark area. Consider purchasing amber-colored dropper bottles to use in place of eyedroppers. These provide extra protection from light and are easy to use.

Of all the different cannabis products available, liquid THC is one of the most potent and easiest to use. By understanding how it functions, you now have several options: buy from a dispensary or make your own!