Terpenes are highly aromatic compounds found naturally in the essential oils of plants, responsible for the distinct scent and flavor profiles of countless botanicals, including dried flower. Plants produce these organic molecules for ecological functions, such as repelling predators and attracting pollinators. When dried flower loses its potency and aroma due to age or improper storage, it is primarily because these volatile terpenes have evaporated.
Adding external terpene concentrates allows users to restore or completely customize the flavor and aroma profile of their flower. This process can revitalize older flower, enhance the sensory experience, and modify the overall effect when consumed. The goal is to carefully reintroduce these compounds in a controlled manner to achieve a more complex and robust end product.
Selecting Appropriate Terpene Concentrates
The first step in infusion is ensuring the concentrates used are safe. Concentrates must be sourced from reputable suppliers who provide lab-tested products specifically labeled as food-grade or botanical-derived. Differentiate these from industrial or synthetic products, which may contain potentially harmful solvents or additives.
Terpenes are available either as isolates (single compounds like Limonene or Myrcene) or as complex blends designed to mimic the profile of a specific strain. Complex blends offer a richer, more nuanced flavor experience because they recreate the synergistic ratios found in the original plant material.
Concentrated terpenes are highly potent and should never be used undiluted, as this can be harsh and irritating. Using undiluted terpenes risks ruining the flower by overpowering its natural flavor and creating an unpleasant, chemical taste. Always ensure the purchased product is intended for inhalation or consumption and is free of cutting agents like Vitamin E acetate.
Essential Tools and Safety Preparation
Before handling the concentrates, gather the correct equipment for precise and safe application. Concentrated terpenes can cause skin and respiratory irritation, so protective gear such as nitrile gloves should be worn to prevent direct contact. The workspace should also be well-ventilated to avoid inhaling concentrated vapors during preparation.
For mixing and application, several tools are needed. An airtight glass jar is required to hold the flower and allow for gentle mixing. Precise measurement is achieved using micro-syringes or pipettes to manage the small volumes of concentrate. If a spray method is preferred, a fine-mist atomizer or sprayer is necessary to ensure the widest, most even distribution of the liquid across the material.
Methods for Infusing Flower
The concentration of added terpenes is measured by weight, typically falling in the range of 1% to 5% of the total flower weight. A conservative starting point is 1% to 2%, which equates to roughly 10 to 20 milligrams of terpenes per gram of flower. Beginners should always start with the lowest concentration to avoid over-application, as it is impossible to remove once applied.
The spray method is often preferred for achieving uniform coverage. This involves diluting the terpene concentrate, often with a high-proof, food-grade alcohol like 190-proof ethanol, at a ratio such as 10:1 (alcohol to terpene). The solution is placed into a fine-mist sprayer and lightly applied to the flower from a distance, ensuring an even coating without oversaturating the material.
A safer method for beginners is the rehydration or humidity pack technique, which relies on vapor infusion. A few drops of concentrate are applied to a clean paper towel, cotton ball, or specialized humidity pack. This is then placed inside an airtight container with the flower. The terpenes slowly evaporate into the sealed environment, allowing the flower to absorb the aromatic vapor over time.
Another technique is direct application and tumbling, suitable for smaller batches. The flower is placed in an airtight glass jar, and the calculated dosage of diluted terpenes is carefully dripped onto the material using a pipette. The container is then sealed and gently rotated to distribute the liquid evenly across the buds. It is critical to avoid heavy, direct application, which can cause harshness and burn off the volatile compounds.
Post-Application Curing and Storage
After the terpenes have been applied, the flower requires a stabilization period to ensure the compounds are fully absorbed and the flavor profile homogenizes. This “curing” or “marinating” phase should last between 24 and 72 hours. During this time, the flower must remain in a sealed, airtight container, ideally in a cool, dark environment.
This waiting period allows the volatile terpene molecules to fully penetrate the plant material, integrating with the flower’s existing composition. Rushing this process can result in the loss of lighter monoterpenes, which contribute significantly to the desired aroma and flavor. Maintaining the proper humidity level for curing, generally between 58% and 62% relative humidity, is important for effective absorption and preservation of the product’s integrity.
For long-term preservation of the newly enhanced flower, storage conditions must protect the volatile terpenes from evaporation and degradation. The flower should be kept away from direct light, heat, and excessive oxygen exposure, as these factors cause terpenes to break down and dissipate. Using airtight glass containers or specialized humidity-controlled bags in a cool, dark space will help preserve the customized flavor profile for a longer duration.