How to Store Cannabis to Keep It Fresh and Potent

how to store cannabis

Want to learn how to store cannabis so it stays fresher and potent longer? This article will help you get started.

With the legalization of medical cannabis in Mississippi, it’s more important than ever to know how to store cannabis for maximum freshness and potency. This blog article will provide you with all the information you need to keep your marijuana for longer shelf life properly.

Does marijuana go bad?

Does marijuana go bad? Yes, it does. Marijuana has a shelf life like any other herb. Over time, it will slowly lose its potency and flavor. If stored correctly, however, marijuana can stay fresh for months.

When marijuana is not correctly stored, it might lose some of its medicinal content, such as terpenes and flavonoids. Improperly stored marijuana can also grow microbes and mold, which can be dangerous to your health.

Proper marijuana storage also helps it keep its THC concentration, which can decrease over time. Cannabis purchased from a dispensary might last anywhere from six months to a year, but only if it is properly stored.

According to some tests and research, cannabis loses roughly 16% of its THC concentration over a year. And there is a 26% reduction of THC after twenty-four (24) months. Your cannabis will be 34% less potent after three years and 41% less potent after four years.

Now that medical cannabis is legal in Mississippi, patients who are new to this treatment may not understand that there are best practices for storing cannabis. And if you want to preserve the quality of your cannabis, you’ll need to learn how to store cannabis.

Benefits of Storing Cannabis Properly

Here are some of the benefits of storing your cannabis correctly:

Your cannabis will stay fresh for longer

When cannabis is stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, it can stay fresh for months or even years. This is much longer than if it were stored improperly in a humid or warm environment, where it would quickly degrade.

Your cannabis will be more potent

Proper storage can help preserve the cannabinoids in your cannabis, which are responsible for its medicinal effects. If your cannabinoids are degraded, your cannabis will be less potent, and you may not receive the treatment benefits you are used to.

You’ll save money in the long run

If you’re able to keep your cannabis fresh for more extended periods, you won’t have to replace it as often. This can save you money on your overall cannabis budget.

What’s the best way to store cannabis?

With so many available options, it can be difficult to decide which method is best way to store cannabis. The right storage techniques can make all the difference. So let us guide you on the best way to store cannabis:

Choose an Airtight Container

Many different types of containers can be used to store cannabis, but a few are better than others. The best container to use is airtight and made of a material that does not allow light to pass through.

It is also essential to make sure that the container you use is clean and dry before storing your cannabis in it. Any moisture in the container can cause mold or mildew to grow on your cannabis, which can ruin its potency and flavor.

Once you have selected a suitable container, you will need to decide how much cannabis to store in it. If you are only storing a small amount for personal use, a single jar or tin should suffice. If you are storing larger quantities, you will need to invest in multiple airtight containers. However, since Mississippi law limits patient possession of cannabis to less than 3.5 grams, you should only need one container.

Check Temperature and Humidity Levels

When storing your cannabis, temperature and humidity levels are key to maintaining freshness and potency. Here are some guidelines to follow for optimal storage:

  • Store cannabis in a cool, dark place. An ideal temperature range would be between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperature swings can also be damaging to cannabis, so try to keep your storage area as stable as possible in terms of temperature. If possible, use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and ensure it stays within the ideal range for storing cannabis.
  • Humidity levels should be kept around 55-65%. Too much moisture can lead to the formation of mold and mildew, which can ruin your stash, and too little can dry it out and degrade it.
  • Consider using a storage container with a built-in humidifier or dehumidifier to help maintain the perfect environment for your cannabis. Disposable humidity packs are also available.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your cannabis stays fresh and potent for as long as possible.

Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight

Sunlight can cause the THC in cannabis to degrade, making it less potent and less effective. Not to mention, sunlight can also cause your cannabis to dry out and become brittle, making it more difficult to break up and smoke.

Store your container of cannabis in a cool, dark place. A cupboard or closet works great for this. Avoid areas with direct sunlight or heat, like near an oven or radiator.

Not sure how to store cannabis?

If you’re not sure how to store your cannabis, ask a provider. They can help you find the best way to store your cannabis, so it stays fresh and potent. They can also recommend specific products to help keep your cannabis fresh.  

Our providers at Pause Pain and Wellness can offer advice on how to store your cannabis properly and can even suggest storage containers or jars that are specially designed for holding marijuana. If you’re looking to keep your cannabis discreet, providers can also advise where to find smell-proof containers or bags.

Conclusion

If you want to store cannabis for maximum freshness and potency, it’s paramount that you follow the proper guidelines. This includes storing your cannabis in airtight containers away from light, heat, and humidity. It is also crucial to make sure your storage space is clean. Additionally, regularly checking on the condition of your stored cannabis will help ensure any potential issues are caught early. Adopting these habits will help ensure optimum freshness and quality of your marijuana.