If you’ve found yourself with an old stash of cannabis that’s past its prime, you might be wondering what to do with it. It’s not uncommon for many users to have some aged weed sitting around, dry and brittle from poor storage. But even if your cannabis seems ancient, there are plenty of ways to bring it back to life and make it enjoyable once again. Here’s how you can rejuvenate your old weed using easy and effective methods.
Understanding the signs of old cannabis
First, it’s important to recognize when your weed has truly aged. Old cannabis will typically have fewer trichomes, the tiny crystals that contain much of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes. These trichomes break down over time, leading to a reduction in potency. Additionally, old weed tends to be brittle and will easily crumble into a powder when handled.
Another tell-tale sign is the harshness of the smoke. When cannabis dries out too much, it becomes less appealing to smoke, offering a rough and unpleasant experience. Despite these issues, there’s hope for turning your old stash into something worth enjoying.
Proper storage to prevent future dryness
Before diving into revitalization techniques, let’s talk about preventing this problem from happening again. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness of your cannabis. Avoid keeping it in plastic containers or bags, as these do not provide an airtight seal and can cause the weed to dry out faster.
Instead, opt for glass jars with tight-fitting lids. Glass helps maintain a stable environment, reducing exposure to air and moisture, which can degrade the quality of your weed. A cool, dark place is ideal for storage, as heat and light can also contribute to the breakdown of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Methods to rehydrate your cannabis
Using a wet paper towel technique
One simple way to bring moisture back to your cannabis is by using a wet paper towel. Place a damp (not soaking) paper towel inside a baggie and poke a few holes in it. Then put the whole baggie into the container with your cannabis, ensuring that none of the weed directly touches the wet paper towel. After a few days, you should notice your weed becoming more pliable and easier to handle.
Moisturizing with fruits and veggies
This method involves adding organic matter like fruit peels or vegetable slices to introduce some flavor along with moisture. Orange peels are a popular choice due to their pleasant citrus scent. Simply peel an orange and place the peel inside your cannabis jar without letting the weed touch any wet part. The citrus aroma can give your weed a nice boost.
If you prefer another scent, try using apple or potato peels, or even a leaf of lettuce. Each of these options carries a different smell and amount of moisture, allowing you to customize your rehydration process. Just ensure no direct contact between the weed and the wet parts to avoid mold growth.
Employing humidity control packets
Humidity control packets are specially designed to keep your cannabis at optimal moisture levels. Available in various percentages, a 62% humidity packet works well for reviving old weed. Simply add one to your container, and after a few days, it will help balance the moisture content in your stash.
While this method may be somewhat pricier than others, it significantly reduces the risk of mold and ensures consistent results. There’s no added flavor, making it a straightforward option for those who prefer to maintain the natural taste of their cannabis.
Mixing old weed with new
Adding fresh cannabis to your old stash can also improve its overall quality. Mixing the newer weed with the older one before smoking can enhance the flavor and smoothness of the experience. This blend will mask the harshness of the aged cannabis, giving you a better smoke while preserving the unique effects of the older bud.
Embracing the unique high of old cannabis
As cannabis ages, its cannabinoid profile changes. For instance, THCA converts to CBNA, which further transforms into CBN upon combustion. CBN offers a different kind of high—often described as more relaxing and sedative. Many users enjoy this distinctiveness and find the “weirdness” of an older cannabis high quite appealing.
If you decide to smoke your old weed, revitalizing it first will ensure that you still get a smooth and enjoyable experience. Embrace the unique characteristics of aged cannabis, and consider blending it with newer buds for a balanced effect.
Final thoughts on reviving old weed
Dry, brittle cannabis doesn’t have to end up in the trash. With the right techniques, you can restore its moisture and enjoy it just as much as fresh weed. Whether you choose to use household items like fruits and wet paper towels or invest in humidity control packets, there’s a solution that suits your needs and preferences. Remember to store your cannabis properly going forward to maintain its freshness and prevent future dryness. Happy smoking!