Lecithin is a term that might sound complex, but its role in the world of cannabis infusions is quite significant. If you've ever wondered about incorporating lecithin into your edibles, this article will guide you through its benefits, how to use it, and some considerations to keep in mind.
Understanding Lecithin
Lecithin is a phospholipid, a type of fat that is essential in the cells of our bodies. It possesses excellent emulsification properties, making it a popular additive in both food and cannabis products. But what makes it particularly useful in cannabis infusions?
Benefits of Using Lecithin in Cannabis Infusions
- Stability: Lecithin helps to prevent the separation of cannabinoids and fats in your infusion, leading to a more stable and homogenous product. This means you won't see the discoloration and separation that can sometimes occur in infusions like coconut oil.
- **Bio availability**: While lecithin won't increase the potency of your infusion (turning a 200mg infusion into a 300mg one, for example), it does potentially enhance the bioavailability of cannabinoids. This means that the cannabinoids can be absorbed more readily by your body. Although this benefit is somewhat debated, many users, including myself, have noticed a difference in the effectiveness of infusions when lecithin is used.
- Shelf Stability: Lecithin also contributes to the shelf stability of the product. This is why you'll find lecithin in many store-bought food items, from candy bars to mayonnaise. It helps these products maintain their quality over time.
Choosing the Right Type of Lecithin
Not all lecithin is created equal. The source and form of lecithin can significantly affect its quality:
- Source: Many commercial lecithins are derived from soy. However, concerns about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and pesticide use make organic, non-soy sources preferable for some people. I personally prefer sunflower lecithin because it's typically available in a non-GMO, organic form.
- Form: Lecithin comes in various forms, including granules, powders, and liquids. The liquid form tends to dissolve more easily, which is particularly useful when mixing into warm infusions.
How to Incorporate Lecithin into Your Infusion
Incorporating lecithin into your cannabis infusion is straightforward. Here’s how I do it:
- Timing: Add lecithin right after you strain the plant material from your infusion while it's still warm to hot.
- Method: Stir in the lecithin thoroughly. If you're using a Mason jar, you can also seal it and give it a good shake. This helps ensure that the lecithin is fully integrated. 3 . Quantity: It's important not to overdo it with lecithin. A general guideline is to use no more than a teaspoon to a tablespoon for each cup of oil. I usually just eyeball it with a small squeeze, as you don't need much to achieve the desired effect.
Potential Drawbacks of Using Lecithin
While lecithin offers several benefits, there are a couple of potential drawbacks to consider:
- Taste: Some people may find that lecithin alters the taste of their infusions. If you are sensitive to the taste of soy or sunflower, you might want to experiment with small amounts first or choose a different method.
- Selective Use: I don't use lecithin in every type of infusion. For instance, I typically skip it in butter or olive oil-based infusions and reserve it mainly for coconut oil infusions, where I find it most beneficial.
Final Thoughts and Additional Resources
Lecithin can be a valuable addition to your cannabis infusions, enhancing stability, bioavailability, and shelf life. However, it's not essential for every recipe, and its use should be tailored to your personal preferences and the specific needs of your infusion.
If you're interested in exploring more about cannabis infusions and the role of lecithin, consider joining the Mason Pot community. For those looking to dive deeper into the craft of cannabis infusions, check out Mason Pot's website and use the code "Masonpoot24" to get a 10% discount on the all-in-one craft infuser — a great tool for making potent and beautifully consistent batches of edibles.
Thank you for reading, and happy infusing! If you have any questions or want to share your experiences with lecithin in cannabis infusions, feel free to drop a comment below. Your feedback helps us all learn and grow!
