Heat Activation

[Michelle KochStudent]

Okay, as I’ve mentioned in another thread, I’ve been doing a lot of research about growing and using cannabis, for medicine and general preventive health. I recently learned that a number of the cannabinoids in cannabis need to be changed from their less active form to the active form through the application of heat, known as decarboxylation. I was very surprised to learn this, but I understand now why people prefer to smoke it, vaporize it, or cook with it.

Anyway, this got me wondering if there are other herbs out there that would be more potent if they were decarboxylated first. Afterall, lots of plants contain cannabinoids. :poke:

Thoughts?

[IdahoHerbalist]

I have read nearly every word in Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West and do not recall reading that word. :confused: Off to do a specific search for it……….

Search term does not exist.

[Michelle KochStudentTopic Author]

It is a real word, I promise. 🙂

[IdahoHerbalist]

I meant in Michael’s book!

[Michelle KochStudentTopic Author]

Oh. Right. :face palm 2: :blush:

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

Mullien is purportedly very effective if smoked. I don’t know if it’s better smoked.

I haven’t tried it because I also find it very effective when it’s not smoked.

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

[Michelle KochStudentTopic Author]

In the case of mullein, I think the point is not so much heat activatipn, but a mechanism for getting the medicine into your lungs. I personally find inhaling to be more effective than eating or drinking. Steam vaporization is better than combustion. Gentler.

With cannabis, you have to bake the herb in the oven to activate the CBD and the thc before infusing in butter or oil to cook with. So far, I’m concluding that cannabis may be unique in this property.

[Author]

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