Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that contains psychoactive compounds that are used for medicinal and recreational purposes as well balancing your endocannabinoid system. When it comes to the shelf life of marijuana, several factors can affect its potency and quality.
In this article, we will explore the shelf life of marijuana and what you need to know to ensure that your cannabis remains fresh and potent.
Factors that Affect the Shelf Life of Marijuana
1. Humidity
If cannabis is stored in an environment that is too humid, it can become moldy, which can lead to a loss of potency and quality. On the other hand, if cannabis is stored in an environment that is too dry, it can become brittle and lose its potency.
2. Light
Light is another factor that can affect the shelf life of marijuana. Exposure to light can break down the psychoactive compounds in cannabis, which can lead to a loss of potency and quality. To avoid this, it is best to store cannabis in a dark, cool place.
3. Oxygen
Exposure to oxygen can cause the psychoactive compounds in cannabis to break down, which can lead to a loss of potency and quality. This is why it is best to store cannabis in an airtight container.
4. Type of Strain
Sativa strains tend to have a shorter shelf life than Indica strains. This is because Sativa strains have a higher moisture content, which can lead to mold growth and a loss of potency.
How to Store Marijuana
To ensure that your marijuana remains fresh and potent, it is essential to store it properly. Here are some tips on how to store marijuana:
1. Store in an Airtight Container
If you want to keep your marijuana fresh and prevent it from getting exposed to oxygen, it is recommended to store it in a container that is airtight.
Glass jars that have a lid that fits tightly are the perfect choice for storing cannabis.
2. Store in a Cool, Dark Place
To prevent the harmful effects of light, it is recommended to keep cannabis in a cool place devoid of light. A closet or cabinet would be the perfect spot.
3. Use Humidity Control
To avoid mold growth, it is best to use humidity control. Boveda packs are an excellent choice for controlling humidity levels in a container.
4. Don’t Store in the Refrigerator
While it may seem like a good idea to store cannabis in the refrigerator, some growers and patients feel it to can dry out your cannabis medicine.
Additionally, temperature fluctuations can cause the psychoactive compounds in cannabis to break down.
5. Don’t Store in Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are not a good choice for storing cannabis. They don’t provide an airtight seal, which can lead to exposure to oxygen, and they can also cause static electricity, which can damage the trichomes on the cannabis.
As mentioned above, the shelf life of marijuana can be affected by several factors, including humidity, light, oxygen, and the type of strain. To ensure that your cannabis remains fresh and potent, it is essential to store it properly.
Use an airtight container, store in a cool, dark place, use humidity control, and don’t store in plastic bags. By following these tips, you can ensure your cannabis remains fresh and potent for as long as possible.