what to do with weed stems

2 min read 25-12-2024

Weed stems are often discarded as waste after harvesting buds. But these stems are packed with cannabinoids and terpenes, making them valuable for various uses. Don't throw them away! This article explores creative and practical ways to repurpose your weed stems.

Why Bother Using Weed Stems?

Before diving into uses, let's highlight why you shouldn't toss those stems. While they contain less THC and CBD than buds, they still hold considerable amounts of these valuable compounds. Plus, using them reduces waste and maximizes your harvest.

Methods for Repurposing Weed Stems

1. Making Weed Stem Tea:

Many people enjoy making tea from weed stems. This is a simple method to extract some of the remaining cannabinoids and terpenes.

How to: Finely chop the stems. Steep in hot (not boiling) water for 15-20 minutes. Strain and enjoy! Add honey or lemon for flavor. Note that this method may not extract all the cannabinoids as efficiently as other methods.

2. Infused Oils and Butters:

Weed stem oil or butter is an excellent way to extract cannabinoids for cooking or topical use.

How to: Combine finely chopped stems with your chosen oil or butter. Simmer gently for several hours, ensuring the mixture doesn't boil. Strain and store the infused oil or butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method offers a higher concentration of cannabinoids compared to tea.

3. Creating Cannabutter for edibles:

Cannabutter, infused with weed stems, can be used in various baked goods like brownies, cookies, or cakes.

How to: Follow the same process as above for infused butter. Ensure you accurately measure the amount of butter to achieve your desired potency in your edibles.

4. DIY Weed Stem Tincture:

Tinctures offer a convenient and potent way to consume cannabinoids.

How to: Finely chop the stems and submerge them in high-proof alcohol (like Everclear) for several weeks. Shake regularly. After several weeks, strain the liquid, and you have a tincture that can be added to drinks or taken directly (in small doses). Remember, always start with a low dose.

5. Compost for Your Garden:

Adding your weed stems to your compost pile is a great way to give back to the earth. This is an environmentally friendly option.

How to: Chop the stems and add them to your compost along with other organic materials like leaves and fruit scraps. The nutrients in the stems will enrich your soil.

6. Making a Weed Stem Salve:

A salve is a topical remedy that can be used to treat skin conditions. Weed stem salve can provide localized pain relief and soothing effects.

How to: Use the infused oil from method 2 as the base for your salve recipe. You'll need other ingredients like beeswax and essential oils to create the salve. Several online tutorials detail the process of making a salve.

Important Considerations

Potency: Remember that weed stems contain significantly less THC and CBD than buds. Expect a milder effect when using them.
Safety: Always handle your weed stems and preparations carefully. Be aware of the legal restrictions in your area.
Cleanliness: Ensure your stems are thoroughly cleaned before use to remove any contaminants.
Storage: Store your infused products in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to maintain potency and freshness.

Conclusion

Weed stems are a valuable resource that shouldn't end up in the trash. From making soothing teas to creating potent tinctures, the possibilities are many. By incorporating these methods, you can reduce waste, maximize your harvest, and enjoy the benefits of your cannabis plants fully. Remember to always prioritize safety and legality in your endeavors.