The right conservation of CBD flowers is a key factor in maintaining their quality over a long period. Whether you're a user or a seller of CBD flowers, knowing how to store them properly will help you reap the full benefits of the product. This article will give you detailed advice on the best ways to storing CBD flowers to maintain their freshness, quality and cannabinoid content.
Quick summary
Why is it important to store CBD flowers properly?
CBD flowers, like many other natural herbs, are sensitive to their environment. If not stored properly, they can lose their freshness, their cannabinoid compounds can degrade, and they can even go mouldy. So storing CBD flowers properly will:
- Keep the flowers naturally moist.
- Prevent the breakdown of cannabinoids.
- Protect flowers from oxidation caused by air and light.
- Prevent the formation of mould and bacteria.
Key factors affecting the quality of CBD flowers
Before looking at preservation methods, it is essential to understand the factors that influence the quality of CBD flowers:
- Temperature: High temperatures reduce the quality and shelf life of flowers.
- Light: Exposure to sunlight can destroy the cannabinoids present in the flowers.
- Humidity: Too much or too little humidity can damage the flowers.
- Air: Exposure to air oxidises the flowers, resulting in a loss of flavour and effectiveness.
The best ways to preserve CBD flowers
Store CBD flowers in a cool, dark place
One of the best ways of preserving CBD flowers is to keep them in a cool, dark environment. Light and heat can alter the cannabinoids in the flowers, affecting the taste and effectiveness of the product.
Sunlight: When CBD flowers are exposed to direct sunlight, compounds such as CBD and terpenes degrade. This not only reduces the quality, but can also alter the smell and effectiveness of the flowers.
Ideal temperature: To store CBD flowers, the ideal temperature is between 18°C and 24°C. Too high a temperature will cause the important compounds to evaporate, while too low a temperature could lead to condensation and encourage the development of mould.
Choose a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or wardrobe, that is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Use airtight boxes to store CBD flowers
The use of hermetically sealed cans is essential for good conservation of CBD flowers. Airtight boxes help prevent air from coming into contact with the flowers, limiting oxidation and keeping them fresh.
Tin material: The best storage tins are made from tinted glass. Glass not only prevents light from getting through, but also does not react with the compounds in the flowers, preserving their taste and quality for longer.
Choice of airtight cans: If you don't have a glass can, you can use vacuum-sealed plastic bags or airtight plastic cans. However, glass tins are still the best choice for optimum preservation.
Keep CBD flowers away from sunlight and heat.
Direct sunlight is the enemy of CBD flowers. The cannabinoids and terpenes present in the flowers are highly sensitive to light and heat. It is therefore crucial to protect the flowers from these elements.
Storage in dark areas: Do not place CBD flowers in brightly lit areas, such as near windows or in areas close to a heat source. Opt for a place that is dry and as dark as possible.
Avoid electronic devices: Electronic devices such as computers, refrigerators or microwaves generate heat. This heat could affect the quality of the flowers if they are stored near them.
Checking the humidity level when storing CBD flowers
Humidity is another essential factor to be taken into account when conservation of CBD flowers. Too high a humidity level can encourage the formation of mould, while too low a level can dry out the flowers, causing them to lose their flavour and aroma.
Ideal humidity: The ideal humidity level for storing CBD flowers is between 55% and 62%. At this humidity level, CBD flowers will stay fresh without the risk of mould.
Using dehydration sachets: To control humidity, you can use special dehydration sachets to place in the storage box. These sachets help to maintain a stable level of humidity inside the box and prevent the flowers from becoming too dry or too damp.
Avoid using ordinary plastic bags
Some people store CBD flowers in ordinary plastic bags. However, these bags are not ideal, as they are not airtight enough and can cause a build-up of static electricity, which can lead to the loss of most of the trichomes - the glands that contain cannabinoids and terpenes.
Vacuum bags: If you must use plastic bags, choose vacuum bags, which are more airtight. However, bear in mind that vacuum bags are better suited to short-term storage.
Limit the use of plastic bags: Glass or airtight plastic boxes are still the best option for long-term storage.
Do not store CBD flowers in the refrigerator or freezer.
Although low temperatures can extend the shelf life of certain foods, it is not recommended to place CBD flowers in the refrigerator or freezer. Variations in temperature can cause condensation, which could dampen the flowers and lead to the formation of mould.
Fridges and freezers: Variations in temperature can cause water to accumulate on the surface of flowers, increasing the risk of mould.
Storage at room temperature: Rather than using the fridge or freezer, store CBD flowers at room temperature, where temperature and humidity conditions are more stable.
Frequently asked questions about storing CBD flowers
How long can CBD flowers be stored?
CBD flowers can retain their quality for around 6 months to 1 year if stored correctly. However, to ensure optimal taste and efficacy, it is best to use the flowers within 6 months.
How can I tell if CBD flowers have expired?
If the CBD flowers show signs of mould, change colour or lose their natural smell, it's a sign that they've gone out of date. You may also notice that the flowers are too dry or hard, indicating that they have lost their natural moisture.
Should I use specialised storage boxes?
Yes, if you use CBD flowers regularly, it is advisable to invest in a specialised storage box. These boxes are designed to maintain an ideal level of humidity and temperature, helping to extend the shelf life of the flowers.
Conclusion
Proper storage of CBD flowers not only preserves their quality, it also extends their shelf life. Factors such as temperature, light, humidity and air play a crucial role in this process. Using airtight boxes, storing flowers in a cool, dark place and controlling humidity are the most effective methods of preserving your flowers.
I hope this article has helped you to better understand how storing CBD flowers and the precautions to take. By following these storage guidelines, you can make the most of the benefits of this product.