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🧈 Cannabutter & Cannaoil Infusion Calculator

Calculate THC and CBD potency per tablespoon for butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and ghee infusions

Calculate Your Infusion Potency

Weight:

Amount of cannabis flower in grams

Typical flower: 10-30%

Higher fat content = better cannabinoid absorption

1 cup = 16 tablespoons = 48 teaspoons

Pre-decarbing your cannabis gives the best results. Use our Decarb Calculator for guidance.

THE MORE YOU KNOW: Cannabis Infusions

What is Cannabutter?

Cannabutter is butter that has been infused with cannabis. During the infusion process, the fat-soluble cannabinoids (THC, CBD, and others) bind to the fat molecules in the butter. This creates a versatile cooking ingredient that can be substituted for regular butter in virtually any recipe, from brownies and cookies to savory dishes and sauces.

Why Fat Matters

THC and CBD are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve in fats but not in water. The type of fat you use directly affects how efficiently cannabinoids are extracted. Coconut oil leads with 90% absorption due to its high saturated fat content, followed by ghee at 85%, butter at 80%, and olive oil at 75%. Choosing the right fat for your recipe can significantly impact potency.

The Importance of Decarboxylation

Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which are not psychoactive. Decarboxylation (heating cannabis to 240°F for 40 minutes) converts these acids into active THC and CBD. While some decarboxylation occurs during the infusion process, pre-decarbing ensures maximum potency and consistency. Use our Decarb Calculator to get the perfect time and temperature.

Storage Tips

Store cannabutter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks, or freeze for up to 6 months. Cannaoil keeps for 2-3 months refrigerated. Always label your infusions clearly with the date, fat type, and estimated potency per tablespoon. Keep all cannabis-infused products away from children and pets, and store separately from regular cooking ingredients.

HOW TO USE THIS Calculator

  1. Weigh your cannabis flower in grams
  2. Find the THC percentage on your product label or from lab testing
  3. Optionally enter the CBD percentage if your strain contains CBD
  4. Select the type of fat you will use for your infusion (butter, coconut oil, olive oil, or ghee)
  5. Enter the amount of fat in cups (1 cup = 16 tablespoons)
  6. Choose your infusion method (stovetop, slow cooker, or sous vide)
  7. Indicate whether your cannabis is already decarbed, will be decarbed during infusion, or if you are using distillate
  8. Click "Calculate Infusion Potency" to see your results
  9. Use the per-tablespoon potency to determine dosing when cooking with your infusion

CALC'S FAQ HOTLINE

How much cannabutter does one batch make?

A typical batch uses 1-2 cups of butter or oil with 7-14 grams of cannabis. One cup of butter equals 16 tablespoons. The amount of fat you start with is roughly what you will end up with, minus a small amount absorbed by the plant material.

Which fat is best for cannabutter or cannaoil?

Coconut oil has the highest fat absorption rate (90%) due to its high saturated fat content, making it the most efficient at extracting cannabinoids. Ghee (85%) and butter (80%) are also excellent choices. Olive oil (75%) works well for savory applications.

Do I need to decarb before making cannabutter?

Yes, decarboxylation is essential to activate THC and CBD. While some decarboxylation occurs during the infusion process, pre-decarbing your cannabis (240°F for 40 minutes) gives you the most predictable and efficient results (88% efficiency vs. 70% during infusion alone).

How long does cannabutter last?

Cannabutter stored in an airtight container lasts 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer. Cannaoil (coconut or olive oil) typically lasts 2-3 months in the refrigerator. Always label your infusions clearly and keep them away from children and pets.

Why is my cannabutter weak or too strong?

Potency issues usually come from inaccurate THC percentage estimates, improper decarboxylation, or incorrect fat-to-cannabis ratios. Use lab-tested cannabis when possible, follow proper decarb procedures, and use this calculator to dial in your desired potency per tablespoon.

Can I use this calculator for tinctures?

This calculator is specifically designed for fat-based infusions (butter, coconut oil, olive oil, ghee). Fat absorption rates don't apply to alcohol-based tinctures. For tinctures, the extraction efficiency differs and depends on the alcohol proof and soaking time.