Cannabis Extraction Methods Comparison: Which Infusion Is Right for You?

From classic cannabutter to modern sous vide techniques, each cannabis extraction method has unique advantages. This guide compares all major methods to help you choose the right one for your needs.

Quick Answer

The best cannabis extraction method depends on your priorities: Butter is best for baking, coconut oil for versatility, olive oil for savory dishes, tinctures for fast onset, and sous vide for precision. All methods require decarboxylation first to activate THC.

---

Overview of Extraction Methods

Fat-Based Infusions

• Butter (Cannabutter): Classic choice for baking
• Coconut Oil: Highest saturated fat, most versatile
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy, savory applications
• MCT Oil: Fast absorption, liquid at room temperature

Alcohol-Based Extractions

• Tinctures (Everclear): Fast sublingual absorption
• QWET (Quick Wash): Concentrated, cleaner flavor

Precision Methods

• Sous Vide: Laboratory-level consistency
• Specialized Machines: Magical Butter, Ardent Nova

---

Method Comparison Chart

---

Cannabutter: The Classic

Best For

• Brownies, cookies, cakes
• Traditional recipes calling for butter
• Rich, indulgent baked goods

Pros

• Familiar ingredient for bakers
• Rich flavor complements desserts
• Widely documented recipes

Cons

• Not vegan/dairy-free
• Shorter shelf life (2-3 months refrigerated)
• Distinct butter taste

Efficiency

70-80% THC extraction with proper technique.

Verdict

Choose butter if you primarily bake and prefer classic recipes. The gold standard for cannabis brownies and cookies.

---

Coconut Oil: Most Versatile

Best For

• Capsules and pills
• Baking and cooking
• Skin applications
• All-purpose infusion

Pros

• Highest saturated fat (82%) for excellent extraction
• Vegan and dairy-free
• Long shelf life (6-12 months)
• Neutral flavor when refined
• Can be used for topicals

Cons

• Solidifies below 76°F
• Coconut flavor if using unrefined

Efficiency

80-85% THC extraction - among the highest of oil methods.

Verdict

Choose coconut oil if you want one infusion that works for everything. Best single-method choice for beginners.

---

Olive Oil: Heart-Healthy

Best For

• Salad dressings
• Mediterranean cooking
• Pasta finishes
• Bread dipping

Pros

• Heart-healthy fats
• Vegan and dairy-free
• Distinct flavor enhances savory dishes
• No refrigeration required

Cons

• Strong olive flavor not suitable for all recipes
• Lower smoke point limits cooking applications
• Lower extraction efficiency than coconut oil

Efficiency

75-80% THC extraction.

Verdict

Choose olive oil if you cook savory dishes and value health benefits. Perfect for cannabis chefs focused on Mediterranean cuisine.

---

Tinctures: Fastest Acting

Best For

• Sublingual dosing
• Precise measurement
• Discreet consumption
• Long-term storage

Pros

• Fast onset (15-30 minutes sublingual)
• Extremely precise dosing
• Years-long shelf life
• Compact and portable
• No calories

Cons

• Alcohol taste/burn
• 2-6 week preparation time
• Requires high-proof alcohol

Efficiency

85-95% THC extraction - highest of all methods.

Verdict

Choose tinctures if you prioritize fast onset, precise dosing, or need long storage. Ideal for medicinal users.

---

Sous Vide: Maximum Precision

Best For

• Consistent batches
• Odor-controlled environments
• Scientific approach
• Experienced cannabis chefs

Pros

• Laboratory-level temperature precision
• Virtually no odor
• Highly consistent results
• No monitoring required
• Excellent extraction efficiency

Cons

• Requires specialized equipment ($80-200)
• Learning curve for sous vide technique
• More complex setup

Efficiency

85-95% THC extraction due to precise temperature control.

Verdict

Choose sous vide if you value consistency and discretion. Worth the investment for serious cannabis cooks.

---

Honey: Sweet Infusion

Best For

• Tea and hot beverages
• Natural remedies
• Toast and breakfast items
• Sweet applications

Pros

• Natural sweetener
• Long shelf life
• Soothing for throat/cough
• Unique application

Cons

• Low fat content = lower extraction
• Requires lecithin for best results
• Longer infusion time (6-8 hours)

Efficiency

50-70% THC extraction (improved significantly with lecithin).

Verdict

Choose honey as a specialty infusion for teas and sweet applications. Not ideal as your only extraction method.

---

Specialized Machines

Magical Butter Machine

Price: ~$175

Pros: Automated, consistent, built-in heating and grinding

Cons: Expensive, still produces odor

Ardent Nova/FX

Price: ~$250-350

Pros: Decarbs and infuses, very precise, odor-controlled

Cons: Most expensive option

LEVO II

Price: ~$250

Pros: Modern design, app control, good odor management

Cons: Smaller batch sizes

Verdict

Choose machines if you make infusions regularly and value automation. Higher upfront cost saves time over many batches.

---

Choosing Based on Your Priorities

If you want the strongest infusion:

1. Tincture (Everclear)

2. Sous vide coconut oil

3. Stovetop coconut oil

If you want the easiest method:

1. Stovetop cannabutter

2. Slow cooker coconut oil

3. Specialized machine

If discretion/odor control is priority:

1. Sous vide (sealed bags)

2. Specialized machines with covers

3. Tincture (minimal heating)

If you are on a budget:

1. Stovetop methods (no special equipment)

2. Mason jar in slow cooker

3. Oven decarb + stovetop infusion

If you primarily bake desserts:

1. Cannabutter

2. Coconut oil

3. Honey (for specific recipes)

If you cook savory meals:

1. Olive oil

2. Coconut oil

3. Cannabis concentrate added to dishes

---

Combining Methods

Recommended Approach

Keep multiple infusions on hand:

• Coconut oil: General purpose
• Butter: Baking specific recipes
• Olive oil: Salads and savory
• Tincture: Fast relief when needed

Cross-Compatibility

Any infusion can technically be used in any recipe with adjustments, but matching method to dish produces best results.

---

Extraction Efficiency Explained

What Affects Efficiency

• Fat type: Higher saturated fat = better binding
• Temperature: Optimal range 160-185°F
• Time: Longer = more extraction (to a point)
• Agitation: Stirring improves contact
• Decarboxylation: Proper decarb is essential

Typical Efficiency Ranges

• 50-60%: Poor technique or wrong method
• 70-80%: Standard stovetop with good technique
• 80-90%: Optimal conditions or sous vide
• 90-95%: Extended time, precise temp, tinctures

---

Match your extraction method to your cooking style and priorities. There is no single best method - only the best method for your needs.