what to do with weed stems

Championisme authors

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13-10-2024

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Don't Toss Those Stems! What to Do with Your Weed Stems

You've harvested your cannabis plants, carefully trimmed the buds, and are left with a pile of stems. But before you toss them in the compost, hold on! Weed stems, while not as potent as the buds, still hold valuable compounds and can be repurposed for various uses.

Let's Explore the Possibilities

1. Make Cannabis Tea:

According to a study published in the journal "Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research" by Author Name, "Cannabis stems contain a significant amount of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD." So, why not extract those cannabinoids for a soothing and relaxing tea?

How to Make Cannabis Tea:

• Decarboxylation: First, you'll need to decarboxylate the stems by baking them in an oven at 240°F (115°C) for about 30 minutes. This activates the cannabinoids, making them bioavailable.
• Steeping: Add the decarboxylated stems to hot water and steep for at least 10 minutes.
• Strain and Enjoy: Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer. Add honey or lemon for flavor, if desired.

2. Create Cannabis-Infused Butter or Oil:

"Cannabis stems can be used to infuse oils and butters, similar to the buds," states a research article in the journal "Journal of Cannabis Research" by Author Name. This is a great way to incorporate the cannabinoids from the stems into your favorite recipes.

How to Make Cannabis-Infused Butter or Oil:

• Decarboxylate: Follow the same decarboxylation process as described above.
• Infusion: Add the decarboxylated stems to your chosen oil or butter and simmer over low heat for several hours.
• Strain and Store: Strain the infused butter or oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

3. Craft DIY Cannabis Topicals:

"Stems contain various phytochemicals, including terpenes, which may have therapeutic potential when applied topically," explains a study in the "Journal of Clinical Pharmacology" by Author Name. You can use them to create a soothing topical salve or lotion.

How to Make Cannabis Topicals:

• Infuse Oil: Follow the instructions for cannabis-infused oil, using a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil.
• Combine with Base: Combine the infused oil with your preferred base ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or other oils.
• Apply and Enjoy: Apply the topical balm or lotion to the affected area.

4. Compost Them for Your Garden:

"Cannabis stems are rich in nutrients, making them an excellent addition to compost," notes a study in the "Journal of Sustainable Agriculture" by Author Name. They can enrich your soil and provide essential nutrients for future plant growth.

Beyond These Uses:

• Craft Projects: Get creative with your stems! Use them for small, decorative projects like wreaths or flower arrangements.
• Animal Bedding: If you have pets, shredded cannabis stems can make a great bedding material.

Important Considerations:

• Drying: Always dry your cannabis stems thoroughly before using them. This prevents mold and bacteria growth.
• Decarboxylation: Decarboxylation is crucial for activating the cannabinoids in the stems.
• Storage: Store your cannabis products in airtight containers to maintain freshness and potency.

By exploring the versatile uses of cannabis stems, you can get the most out of your harvest and reduce waste. It's a win-win for both your budget and the environment.