How to Make CBD Oil:  Step-by-Step Instructions + Tips on How to Store and Use It

CBD oil is a natural hemp-derived product, often used as part of a personal wellness routine.  While it's widely available in stores, many prefer making CBD oil at home to control the ingredients and purity, customize the potency, and save money.

Whether you're curious about how to make pure CBD oil, want to try a simple homemade recipe, or just love a good DIY project, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through everything from essential tools you’ll need and safety tips to calculating potency, storing your oil properly, and step-by-step instructions on how to make CBD oil at home with confidence.

Prep Time: 30–45 minutes
Cooking Time: 2–3 hours
Total Time: 3–4 hours
Yield: Approx. 1 cup of CBD oil
Potency Estimate: Varies by strain; approx. 20–30 mg CBD per ml
Calories: ~120 per tablespoon (based on carrier oil)

What You’ll Need to Make CBD Oil at Home

Ingredients

• CBD-rich hemp flower (5–10 grams for beginners)
• Carrier oil (such as MCT oil, olive oil, or hemp seed oil)
• Optional: vanilla extract, peppermint oil, or other flavorings

Equipment Checklist

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Oven
• Mason jar or double boiler
• Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
• Glass dropper bottles
• Funnel (optional)
• Gloves (optional for handling hot materials)
  

Calculating Dosage When Making CBD Oil

Why it matters: Estimating the potency of your homemade CBD oil helps you customize the strength to fit your personal preferences and wellness goals. Whether you're making a CBD oil recipe for general wellness, relaxation, stress reduction, sleep support, pain relief, or daily balance, knowing how much CBD is in each milliliter drop can help you dose more consistently. 

How to calculate CBD Potency:

1. Find the CBD percentage of your hemp flower (e.g., 15%).
2. Convert grams to milligrams. Multiply the grams of flower by 1000 to convert to mg.
   Example: 7 grams = 7000 mg total hemp
3. Multiply by the CBD percentage.
   7000 mg x 15% = 1050 mg CBD in total
4. Divide by the total volume of oil used in milliliters (e.g., 30 ml) to get potency per ml.
   Result: 1050 mg / 30 ml = 35 mg CBD per ml
   

Safety First: Precautions for Making CBD Oil at Home

Curious about how to extract CBD oil at home without risking potency or safety? Here are a few tips for you:

• Always decarboxylate your hemp to activate the CBD.
• Avoid overheating, which can destroy cannabinoids.
• Use a thermometer to keep infusion temperatures between 130°F–160°F.
• Store tools and materials in a clean, dry, and ventilated space.
• Keep away from children and pets during the process.
• If you're new to DIY CBD oil, start with small batches.

Tip: Use a CBD dosage calculator for quick results and double-check your math before labeling.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners: The Easiest Way to Make CBD Oil at Home

Making CBD oil at home can seem intimidating at first — but with the right steps and tools, it’s surprisingly simple. Whether you’re trying a CBD-infused oil recipe for the first time or want to learn how to make CBD oil out of bud at home, this guide breaks it down step-by-step using kitchen-friendly methods and basic tools. 

We’ll use a gentle heat infusion process that preserves the cannabinoids and doesn’t require any special lab equipment. Just basic kitchen tools and a little patience!

CBD Oil Making Timeline:

Step 1 – Start with Quality Hemp Flower (Rich in CBD)

Choose a hemp strain that’s high in CBD and contains less than 0.3% THC. Always source from reputable growers who provide third-party lab reports to verify cannabinoid content and confirm the product is free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.

Popular Beginner-friendly strains often include:

• ACDC
• Charlotte’s Web
• Elektra

Why this matters: The quality of your hemp directly impacts the potency, flavor, and overall integrity of your finished CBD oil.  

Step 2 – Decarboxylate the Hemp (Activate the CBD)

Decarboxylation is the process of gently heating the hemp flower to convert the CBDa (its raw, acidic form) into CBD, which is more easily absorbed by the body. Skipping this step can reduce the effectiveness of your homemade CBD oil. 

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
2. Break your hemp buds into small, even pieces - avoid grinding into a fine powder.
3. Spread the pieces evenly on a parchment or foil-lined baking tray.
4. Bake for 30–40 minutes, stirring gently halfway through for even heating.
5. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool before proceeding to the infusion.
   

• Why this matters: Raw hemp primarily contains CBDa. Decarboxylation uses heat to convert it into CBD, enhancing the oil’s overall effectiveness. 
• Safety Tip: Avoid exceeding 250°F (120°C)—too much heat can degrade cannabinoids and reduce potency.

Step 3 – Choose Your Carrier Oil

A carrier oil helps extract and preserve the CBD and other minor cannabinoids. Pick a healthy oil that suits your needs:

• MCT or Coconut oil: Neutral flavor, high bioavailability.
• Olive Oil: Rich in antioxidants, with a longer shelf life.
• Hemp Seed Oil: Plant synergy with hemp extract, but less stable..

Use about 1 cup of carrier oil per 7–10 grams of decarboxylated hemp.

Step 4 – Infuse the CBD into Oil

Now it’s time to combine your decarboxylated hemp with your chosen carrier oil using a gentle water bath. This slow-heating method helps extract cannabinoids, enabling them to bind with the fat molecules in the carrier oil, which is essential for making the oil effective and shelf-stable.

Instructions:

1. Combine the decarbed hemp with your carrier oil in a mason jar (1 gram of flower per 1 oz of oil is a good ratio).
2. Loosely seal the lid to allow minimal airflow and prevent pressure build-up.
3. Place the jar in a pot of hot (not boiling) water—to create a warm and gentle water bath.
4. Maintain a low heat setting, keeping the temperature between (130°F–160°F)(54°C–71°C). 
5. Infuse for 2–3 hours, stirring gently every 30-45 minutes
6. Monitor the water level and temperature throughout. Never let the water boil.

Why this matters: Slow, consistent heat encourages cannabinoids to bond with fat molecules in the oil without degrading them.

Pro Tip: Use a kitchen thermometer to keep your infusion within the ideal temperature range.

Note: This is the stage where your mixture transforms into functional, usable CBD oil—so don’t rush it!

Pro Tip: Use a thermometer to verify the actual water temperature—some slow cookers run hotter than expected.

Step 5 – Strain the Oil

Once infused, it’s time to remove the plant material from your CBD oil. Proper straining improves the oil’s taste, texture, and shelf life. 

Instructions:

1. Line a funnel or mesh sieve with cheesecloth (or a fine nut milk bag)..
2. Slowly pour the infused oil into a bowl or clean jar.
3. Slowly squeeze or press the cheesecloth to extract as much oil as possible.
4. Discard the leftover plant matter or compost it if you prefer
5. (Optional): Filter twice for extra clarity and smoothness

Tip: Take your time during straining—rushing can lead to sediment or unwanted plant particles in your final product.

Step 6 – Bottle and Label Your CBD Oil

Transfer your filtered oil into clean, airtight dropper bottles or small jars. Store in labeled dropper bottles in a cool, dark place. Shake before use and note that potency may vary unless lab-tested.

Keep in mind that potency can vary from batch to batch and should be considered an estimate unless confirmed by lab testing.

• Label with: Date, potency estimate (if calculated), and strain used.
• Store in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or fridge).
• Shake before each use.

How to Make CBD Oil with an Oil Infuser

If you’re looking for a simple, mess-free way to make CBD oil at home, using an oil infuser like the LĒVO II+ or LĒVO Lux can streamline the process and boost consistency. These machines are designed specifically for herbal infusions and offer precise control over temperature and time—making them ideal for infusing CBD into oils safely and effectively.

Whether you’re new to DIY CBD or want to skip the stovetop method, here’s how to make CBD oil using a LĒVO oil infuser.

LĒVO II+ Oil Infuser

Want clean, consistent CBD oil without babysitting the stove? The LĒVO II+ lets you decarb and infuse hemp or cannabis flower into MCT, olive, or coconut oil—all with precision temperature control and no mess.

$329.00 FROM LEVO

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Hemp with the LĒVO

Decarboxylation is essential to activate the CBD in raw hemp. The LĒVO makes this step easier and more consistent than traditional oven methods.

Instructions:

• Break your hemp flower into small, even pieces (avoid grinding to a fine powder).
• Place the hemp in the LĒVO herb pod.
• Select the “Activate” or “Dry/Activate” cycle. This is typically preset to 240°F (115°C) for 30 minutes, but always check your user manual.
• Once the cycle is complete, your hemp is fully activated and ready for infusion.
  

Why this matters: The LĒVO decarboxylation process provides a controlled, odor-reducing environment that prevents cannabinoid degradation and ensures more reliable results.

Pro Tip: The standard LĒVO pod holds up to 7 grams of hemp, or you can double that with an optional double pod for larger batches.

Step 2: Infuse CBD into Oil Using the LĒVO

Now that your hemp is activated, it’s time to infuse it into your chosen carrier oil—whether it’s MCT, coconut, or olive oil.

LĒVO Method (Automatic Infusion):

• Place your decarboxylated hemp in the herb pod and secure the magnetic stirrer.
• Fill the reservoir with your chosen carrier oil (up to 16 oz, depending on your model).
• Set the temperature to 160°F (71°C) and the time to 2–2.5 hours.
• Press “Start” and let the machine do the work—no monitoring or stirring required.
• When finished, dispense directly into storage bottles.

Why this matters: Infusing with a LĒVO ensures precise temperature control and reduces the risk of overheating or under-infusing. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it solution ideal for those who want clean, repeatable results.

Slow Cooker Method (Manual CBD Infusion)

If you are using a slow cooker for making cbd oil at home, we also have step-by-step instructions:

• Combine 1 gram decarbed hemp per 1 oz oil in a mason jar or heat-safe bowl.
• Fill the slow cooker with water (just enough to cover halfway up the sides of your jar/bowl).
• Set to “Low” or “Warm”—depending on your model, this typically keeps temps in the 140°F–160°F (60°C–71°C) range.
• Heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally and checking water levels.

Carefully remove the jar and let it cool before straining.

Pro Tip: Use a thermometer to verify the actual water temperature—some slow cookers run hotter than expected.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Making CBD Oil

Making CBD oil at home is simple, but certain mistakes can reduce potency, compromise flavor, or shorten shelf life. Here’s what to avoid to ensure a successful, high-quality batch:

1. Overheating the Hemp

Too much heat can degrade cannabinoids like CBD, reducing overall effectiveness. Keep temperatures below 240°F (115°C) and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

2. Skipping Decarboxylation

Raw hemp contains CBDa, which must be decarboxylated (gently heated) to convert into active CBD. Bake at 230°F (110°C) for 30–45 minutes before infusing.

3. Using the Wrong Carrier Oil

Carrier oils help cannabinoids bind and absorb into the body. Not all carrier oils are effective at binding with cannabinoids. For best results, stick with MCT oil, coconut oil, or olive oil—all offer solid stability and absorption potential.

4. Not Estimating Potency

Guessing your dosage can lead to inconsistent results. Use the CBD percentage of your flower and a CBD oil dosage calculator to better estimate the strength per ml.

5. Inadequate Straining

Leaving too much plant material in your oil can affect taste, texture, and reduce shelf life. Use a fine cheesecloth or mesh strainer, and strain slowly and gently for best results. 

6. Improper Storage

CBD degrades with exposure to light, air, and heat. Store your oil in a dark glass container (amber or cobalt), sealed tightly, and keep it in a cool, dry place—or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

7. Using Low-Quality Hemp

Old, improperly stored, or low-CBD hemp will yield weaker results. Always source fresh, lab-tested, CBD-rich hemp flower from a reputable provider and confirm cannabinoid content with a COA (Certificate of Analysis).

How to Make CBD Oil Without THC

If you’re looking for THC-free CBD oil, you have two easy options:

1. Use Legal Hemp Strains with Less than 0.3% THC

All hemp used in homemade CBD oil must legally contain under 0.3% THC (by dry weight). Be sure to verify with third-party lab results before purchasing. These strains will contain trace levels of THC, but not enough to produce psychoactive effects or exceed legal limits.

2. Use CBD Isolate for a 100% THC-Free Option

CBD isolate is a crystalline powder that contains pure CBD with 0.0% THC. It dissolves easily in carrier oils and doesn’t require decarboxylation or infusion. Simply mix into your chosen oil and store as you would with a traditional infusion.

Best for: Those who are THC-sensitive, subject to drug testing, or want a simple, no-heat method.

How to Store Your Homemade CBD Oil

Proper storage helps preserve your oil’s potency, flavor, and shelf life. Follow these steps to maintain quality: 

• Store in a cool, dark place—Light and heat can degrade cannabinoids over time.
• Use dark glass bottles (amber or cobalt) to block UV exposure.
• Refrigerate when possible to keep it fresh for up to 6 months.
• Shake before each use. Natural separation can occur; shaking helps to redistribute any settled compounds. 
• Avoid plastic containers or clear bottles - These can allow light and air to degrade the oil and compromise taste or quality over time.

Why Make Your Own CBD Oil?

Making CBD oil at home isn’t just a DIY hobby—it’s an empowering way to take control of what goes into your wellness products. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or someone looking for a natural remedy, here's why many people choose to make it themselves:

• More Cost-effective than buying pre-made, store-bought products
• Customizable potency to suit your individual needs and preferences
• Full control over ingredients, carrier oil, hemp source, and quality
• Satisfying and educational for wellness-minded individuals
• No fancy lab needed—just a kitchen, patience, and the right process

CO₂ Extraction vs. Homemade CBD Oil

Understanding how store-bought CBD oil is made can help you decide if the DIY route is right for you.  Most commercial CBD products use CO₂ extraction—a highly technical process that differs from home infusion in several ways: 

When to choose each:

Choose CO₂-extracted CBD oil if:

• You want a convenient, pre-measured, manufactured product
• You value third-party testing and precise formulations
• You prefer not to make your own

Choose homemade CBD oil if:

• You want to save money over time
• You enjoy hands-on wellness projects
• You want full transparency and ingredient control
• You’re looking to customize potency and carrier oil

Tips on How to Use Your CBD Oil (Personalized to Your Needs)

Homemade CBD oil is incredibly versatile. Whether you're building it into your daily routine or experimenting with recipes, you can tailor it to your lifestyle.

Common Ways to Use DIY CBD Oil:

• Sublingual Use: Place a few drops under your tongue and hold for 30–60 seconds before swallowing.
• Add to Food or Drinks: Blend into smoothies, tea, or salad dressings. (Avoid overheating when cooking.)
• Topical Application: Apply directly to skin, joints, or muscles. Great for localized use.
• Fill Capsules: Use empty gel caps for tasteless, pre-measured doses.
• Make Balms or Lotions: Mix with shea butter, beeswax, or aloe for a nourishing topical.

Note: The effects of CBD vary by individual. Always start low and go slow when trying a new product or dose.

Personalize Your CBD Oil: Boost Flavor and Function

Your homemade CBD oil doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all. With a few simple additions, you can tailor both the taste and the experience to match your personal preferences or intended use.

Flavor Enhancers

Infuse your oil with natural flavors to make it more enjoyable under the tongue or in recipes:

• Peppermint oil – adds a cool, refreshing kick
• Vanilla extract – offers a warm, comforting flavor
• Cinnamon or clove oil – brings a spicy, aromatic twist

Note: When adding essential oils, make sure they are food-grade and safe for ingestion—and always use sparingly.

Botanical Boosts

Enhance your infusion by adding herbs or roots during the heating process:

• Chamomile or lavender flowers – known for their gentle, calming aromas
• Ginger or turmeric root – traditionally used in wellness routines and culinary infusions
• Garlic or rosemary – ideal for savory applications or topical blends

Tip: Use dried herbs to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect shelf life.

Texture & Purpose Tweaks

Looking to go beyond basic tinctures? Here’s how to transform your CBD oil into skin-friendly blends for topical use or self-care routines:

• Mix with beeswax – Turn your infused oil into a soothing topical balm with a thicker texture, ideal for spot application or massage.
  
• Blend with aloe vera or jojoba oil – Create a lightweight, fast-absorbing serum perfect for facial use or sensitive skin.
  
• Add a few drops of vitamin E oil – Helps extend shelf life and adds a moisturizing boost, especially useful for skincare formulations.
  

Tip: Always store homemade topicals in airtight, clean containers and label with the date of creation.

Common Ways to Use CBD Oil

Homemade CBD oil is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into your routine in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular applications:

Sublingual Drops (Under the Tongue):
Place a few drops under your tongue and hold for 30–60 seconds before swallowing. This method may support faster absorption compared to ingestion.

Add to Drinks or Food:
Blend your oil into smoothies, tea, or salad dressings. Keep in mind that ingesting CBD can result in a slower onset of effects but may offer longer-lasting support.

Topical Application:  Gently apply to skin - Rub into sore muscles, joints, or dry areas. Great for a localized nourishing experience. Use as is or blend into a custom balm or salve. 

Capsules or Gel Caps:
Prefer a flavorless, portable option? Fill empty softgel capsules with your homemade CBD oil for a simple, consistent way to measure servings and for easier daily dosing.

Massage Oils or Moisturizing Balms:
Mix with shea butter, coconut oil, or essential oils to create a soothing, CBD-rich massage balm or hydrating body moisturizer.

Reminder: Always test topicals on a small area of skin first and start with a low serving size when using your oil internally.

Make Your Own CBD Oil with Confidence

Making CBD oil at home is not only easy and fun-it’s a rewarding way to take control of what goes into your wellness routine. With the right tools, high-quality hemp, and a safe, step-by-step process, anyone can create personalized infusions and wellness blends that fit their needs and lifestyle. Let  this guide be your starting point to crafting clean, custom DIY CBD oil one drop at a time.

FAQ: Homemade CBD Oil