4 Best Herbal Infusers and Decarboxylators

Best Cannabutter Machines

A herbal infuser or decarboxylator are two of the most important tools you can have in the kitchen when making herbal or botanically infused tinctures, oils, butters or other edibles. Read on to learn more about why you need to add one to your stash and which makes and models are worth your time.

Decarboxylation Devices

When you’re having a smoke sesh with your friends, or about to indulge in a tasty edible, the last thing you’re thinking about is decarboxylation. But this fancy term is the exact reason behind why you’re able to get that euphoric buzz when you light up or munch on your favorite edible. 

So what is decarboxylation, and what does it have to do with consuming marijuana? Well, it literally has everything to do with it. 

Decarboxylation is the process of using the right amount of heat and time to convert chemical compounds (think THC and CBD) in the plant into molecular forms that can interact with your brain’s receptors. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the naturally occurring chemical compound found in marijuana. Without heat, THCA is unable to decarboxylate into tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

And not to be a buzzkill, but this means if you were to eat a whole bag of raw weed you probably wouldn’t feel super high. That’s why decarboxylation is so important to consuming marijuana, no matter which method you prefer. The slower you heat your weed over time, the higher you’ll get. This explains why edibles are so much more powerful than smoking. 

So the next time you’re relaxing after a good joint, you can thank decarboxylation.

Benefits of Decarboxylation

Not only does it get you stoned, but decarboxylation unlocks a different way of consuming marijuana. You can decarboxylate the plant to be used in oils, butter, or anything else that can be consumed. Decarboxylating weed for edibles is a healthy alternative to smoking because it doesn’t irritate your lungs. But if you enjoy a good smoke sesh, prepping your weed beforehand will make the high all the better. Decarboxylation could also help you spend less money because of the increased potency. 

You can decarboxylate your weed at home using conventional methods like baking or a double boiler. But if you don’t know what you’re doing you could run the risk of not heating up your weed enough to decarboxylate it, or burning off the cannabinoids. To get the best results its best to use a herbal infuser or a decarboxylator. 

Herbal Infusers & Decarboxylators: What’s the deal?

Decarboxylating weed at home can be a bit tricky to master if you’ve never done it before. Thankfully, there are devices that can help you get the most out of your marijuana. Herbal infuser and decarboxylators use the perfect amount of heat and time to unlock the full potential of your weed. If you’re looking for a fool-proof, easy method of decarboxylating, you may want to consider investing in one of these devices.

What’s the difference? 

You may find more benefits to having a decarboxylator than a herbal infuser, or vice versa. Herbal infusers are perfect for individuals who enjoy edibles and have sensitive lungs. Infusers can create potent oil which can be made for tinctures, capsules, or even cooking. Decarboxylators can achieve the same thing but are mainly used to heat your weed to the optimal temperature for smoking. Once marijuana is decarboxylated, it can be used in its raw form in both food and drinks. Both devices give you accurate, reliable results, all while being discreet and easy to operate.

The Best Herbal Infusers & Decarboxylators

Now that you know the difference between an infuser and a decarboxylator, it’s time to go shopping. Below we’ve put together a brief review of the top products on the market today. 

1. Magical Butter Infuser

This infuser is perfect for someone who enjoys cooking. Magical Butter Infuser grinds, stirs and heats marijuana to the optimal temperature. It can then be infused into butter, cooking oil, and even lotion. The machine comes with a programmable heating unit and is self-cleaning. Magical butter is one of the most popular ways to make edibles. 

Features Overview:

• Fully automatic sequences
• Microprocessor-controlled programs
• Stainless steel pitcher construction
• Integrated thermostat and sensors for superior temperature control
• Capable of making up to 2-5 cups per cycle
• No hassle self-cleaning design

2. Ardent Nova Decarboxylator

If you want to save money and get the most out of your weed, this decarboxylator is what you need. Not only can you prep your marijuana to be infused into oil, but you can also enjoy the decarboxylate weed raw. This device takes the guesswork out of dosing giving you accurate results you can count on. 

Features Overview:

• Reliably accurate yields with every use
• Quiet operation
• Odorless operation
• Discreet size
• Includes inner and outer container, cap, cover and strainer 
• Cool tumbler-like design 
• Botanical activator fully activates oils, herb or botanicals
• Easy one-push operation 
• Large capacity capable of up to one ounce of material
• Multi-use for oral, topical and sublingual use

3. LEVO 2 Oil Infuser

If you’re ready to make strain-specific edibles easily and effectively, this infuser is for you. This super sleek device comes with a built-in “dry activate cycle” for the best decarboxylation results. Another great plus, you can use it at home or take it with you wherever you go thanks to its wireless connectivity. Use the app to easily control the time, temperature, and discover recipes for amazing edibles. This device is a bit more pricey than others, but its high-tech features and the handy app will make decarboxylating your weed effortless.

Benefits of the LEVO 2 Unique Infusion Process:

• Utilizes zero solvents, additives or emulsifiers
• Gives you complete control over ingredients
• Allows you to accurately fine-tune potency 
• Incorporates an advanced steeping methodology that requires zero aeration
• Improved shelf life of the finished product 
• Can capably handle batch sizes ranging from 5016 oz. with ease
• Produces better yields

Features Overview:

4. Mighty Fast Herbal Infuser

This herbal infuser is small and simple to use for infusing butter. The brand has done significant research to figure out the best times and temperatures to get optimal infusions. You won’t have to worry about dosing when using this infuser either. The device plugs into the wall and comes with a measuring cup, mesh strainer, and cloth.

Features Overview:

• Simple yet efficient ergonomic design
• Easy to use
• Easy to clean
• Includes herbal infuser, measuring cup and strainer
• Can make butter in as little as 45 minutes
• Durable build quality
• Easy lift-off handle

The Bottom Line

Every time you smoke or consume marijuana, decarboxylation is essential in the process of getting high. However, just because you’re heating up your weed to convert TCHA to TCH, you may still be missing out on the potential amount of THC you could be getting from the plant strain. This could lead to a subpar high and wasted money. That’s why decarboxylating weed before consumption can give the perfect buzz. How ever you decide to consume marijuana, knowing the chemistry behind it can help you to become more educated, and get the most out of your herb!

Looking to detox from THC? Check out: Why It's Important To Use a Detox