🌡️ Decarboxylation Calculator
Get optimal time and temperature to activate THC and CBD for maximum potency in edibles
Calculate Decarb Parameters
Different materials require different timing
THC and CBD require different temperatures
Your Decarboxylation Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 240°F
- Break up or coarsely grind cannabis (don't powder it)
- Spread evenly on baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Place in center of oven and bake for 40 minutes
- Cannabis should turn slightly darker and smell aromatic (not burnt)
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before using
- Store in airtight container if not using immediately
⚠️ Important Tips
- Use an oven thermometer - oven temps can be inaccurate by 25°F or more
- Don't exceed recommended temperature or you'll destroy cannabinoids
- Avoid over-grinding - larger pieces decarb more evenly
- Your kitchen will smell strongly - ensure proper ventilation
Understanding Decarboxylation
What is Decarboxylation?
Decarboxylation (decarbing) is the process of using heat to convert inactive cannabinoid acids (THCA and CBDA) into active cannabinoids (THC and CBD). Raw cannabis contains mostly THCA and CBDA, which have minimal psychoactive or therapeutic effects. Heat removes a carboxyl group (COOH) from the molecule, activating it.
Why Decarboxylation is Essential
When you smoke or vape cannabis, decarboxylation happens instantly from the flame or heat. But for edibles, you must decarb first. Without proper decarbing, your brownies or butter will have 10-15% of the expected potency at most. Proper decarboxylation achieves 85-95% conversion, maximizing the effectiveness of your cannabis.
Temperature and Time Science
THCA converts to THC optimally at 220-250°F (104-121°C). Lower temps preserve more terpenes but take longer. Higher temps work faster but risk destroying cannabinoids. The sweet spot is 240°F for 30-45 minutes. CBD decarboxylation requires slightly higher temperatures (250-280°F) and longer times (60-90 minutes) because CBDA is more stable than THCA.
Signs of Proper Decarboxylation
Properly decarbed cannabis turns from bright green to brownish-gold. It becomes drier and more crumbly. You'll notice a strong, aromatic cannabis smell (not burnt). If it turns dark brown or black, you've gone too far and destroyed cannabinoids. If still bright green, it needs more time.
How to Use This Calculator
- Choose your material type: flower/bud, trim/shake, or kief/hash
- Select your target cannabinoid: THC for psychoactive effects or CBD for therapeutic effects
- Click "Get Decarb Instructions" to receive optimal temperature and time
- Preheat your oven to the specified temperature (use oven thermometer for accuracy)
- Prepare your cannabis by breaking into small pieces and spreading on parchment paper
- Bake for the specified duration, watching for color change to light brown
- Cool completely before using in edibles or infusions
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the decarboxylation calculator?
This calculator provides time-tested decarboxylation parameters used by experienced cannabis cooks. Results depend on oven accuracy (use an oven thermometer), material density, and moisture content. The recommendations ensure 85-90% cannabinoid activation when followed correctly.
Is this tool free to use?
Yes! This tool is completely free with no hidden costs, subscriptions, or limitations. Use it as often as you need.
Do I need to create an account?
No account needed. The tool works entirely in your browser without requiring signup or personal information.
Does this work on mobile devices?
Yes, this tool is fully responsive and works on smartphones, tablets, and all desktop browsers.
Is my data private?
Absolutely. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your data never leaves your device and is not stored on any server.
What happens if I don't decarboxylate cannabis?
Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, not active THC and CBD. Without decarboxylation, your edibles will have minimal to no psychoactive or therapeutic effects. Decarbing converts THCA to THC and CBDA to CBD through heat, activating the cannabinoids.