What Happens When You Microwave Weed?

Microwaving your weed sounds like a quirky experiment that could potentially ruin your bud.

If you’re desperate for a quick dry or think it’ll elevate your stash, think again.

In some cases, like microwaving a blunt, this process can help dry out the wrap to make it easier to smoke. Others think the flavors and aromas lock in better with a quick microwave zap.

But, in most cases, microwaving your weed could lead to no difference or, worse, a ruined session.

The answer to this is a bit complex. When you put weed in the microwave, certain cannabinoids like THCA can become activated.

THCA is the acidic precursor to THC – when heated, THCA is actually converted into THC. On its own, THCA isn’t psychoactive, so it won’t lead to the classic high associated with THC.

Some regions have to buy THCA weed since it can act as a legal loophole in areas where THC is illegal. And, some people prefer the THCA cannabinoid to begin with.

But if you’re microwaving your THCA bud in hopes it’ll convert to THC better than when you light up, there’s a high risk of over-microwaving. This overheating of your bud risks degrading compounds like cannabinoids and terpenes, which together contribute to the high you’d feel from the cannabis.

Some people, like Snoop Dogg, microwave their blunts to dry the wrap, helping it burn more smoothly. Others use this method to dry overly moist cannabis quickly, often due to improper drying and curing or accidental wetting.

And, as we previously mentioned, some users try to microwave weed to speed up the conversion of THCA to THC, or to activate THC for edible-making. However, an oven is generally a better alternative, offering consistent, controlled heat that reduces the risk of overheating and preserves the cannabis’s effectiveness.

If you’re set on microwaving weed, here’s a quick guide to get you started. Remember, an oven is generally better for precise heat control for drying weed or making edibles, but here’s how to do it if you’re in a pinch.

Microwaving Weed for Edibles

1. Preparation: Break your cannabis into small, even pieces.

2. Container: Place the pieces in a microwave-safe dish.

3. Heating: Microwave on medium heat for 1.5 to 2 minutes.

4. Check: Stir the weed and check for dryness. Repeat if necessary, but avoid overheating.

Avoid microwaving for too long; try 30-second bursts to prevent damaging cannabinoids and terpenes.

Microwaving Blunts

1. Assembly: Roll your blunt as usual.

2. Microwave: Place the blunt in the microwave.

3. Heating: Microwave on low heat for 10-15 seconds.

4. Check: Feel the blunt; it should be slightly drier and ready to smoke.

Avoid microwaving too long to prevent damaging the wrap or altering the flavor.

Microwaving Weed to Dry It

1. Preparation: Spread the cannabis evenly on a microwave-safe plate.

2. Heating: Microwave on low heat for 10-20 seconds.

3. Check: Let it cool for a few seconds, then check for dryness.

4. Repeat: If still moist, repeat in short bursts, checking frequently.

If you have some time on your hands, then try to hang dry your weed with a fan going in the room, but not directly on your bud.