How to make cannabis capsules: 5 Powerful Steps for Success 2025

Your Complete Guide to Making Cannabis Capsules at Home

Looking for a quick guide on how to make cannabis capsules? Here’s what you need to know:

1. Decarboxylate ground cannabis at 220°F for 30-45 minutes
2. Infuse into coconut oil with soy lecithin (3-4 hours)
3. Cool the mixture below 100°F
4. Fill size 00 gelatin capsules using a capsule filling machine
5. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place

How to make cannabis capsules is a skill that combines precision and simplicity, offering a discreet, smoke-free alternative to traditional consumption methods. These easy-to-swallow pills deliver consistent doses without the calories, taste, or smell associated with other edibles. Whether you’re seeking therapeutic benefits or controlled recreational experiences, capsules provide a clean, convenient option that fits seamlessly into any wellness routine.

Cannabis capsules offer several advantages over smoking or traditional edibles:

• Precise dosing with consistent effects
• Longer-lasting relief (4-8 hours typically)
• No smoke or odor for maximum discretion
• Calorie-free alternative to sugary edibles
• Customizable potency based on your needs

As Jeremy Rivera, owner of Terp Bros dispensary and advocate for the New York CAURD program, I’ve helped countless customers find the benefits of cannabis capsules. My experience with how to make cannabis capsules spans years of refining techniques to ensure consistent potency and maximum effectiveness for both medicinal and recreational users.

Basic How to make cannabis capsules terms:
– How to dose cannabis edibles
– How to make cannabis tea
– How to make cannabutter

Cannabis Capsules 101: Forms, Benefits, Risks

Cannabis capsules, also known as “canna caps,” are one of the most versatile and discreet methods of cannabis consumption available today. They come in several different forms, each with unique properties and benefits.

The most common types of cannabis capsules include:

• Oil-based capsules: These contain cannabis-infused carrier oils (typically coconut oil) and are the most popular homemade variety due to their improved bioavailability.
• Dry flower capsules: Filled with decarboxylated ground cannabis flower, these are simpler to make but may be less efficiently absorbed.
• Distillate capsules: Contain highly refined cannabis oil with specific cannabinoids isolated.
• Full-spectrum capsules: Include the complete range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds for the “entourage effect.”
• Isolate capsules: Contain a single purified cannabinoid (usually THC or CBD) for targeted effects.

When consumed, cannabis capsules are metabolized through the digestive system. The cannabinoids are processed by the liver, which converts delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC – a more potent compound that produces stronger and longer-lasting effects than inhaled cannabis. This process is why edible forms of cannabis, including capsules, typically create more intense experiences than smoking or vaping equivalent amounts.

“The change of THC in the liver creates a completely different experience for many users,” explains our team at Terp Bros. “The effects tend to be more body-centered and can last significantly longer, which makes proper dosing absolutely crucial.”

While cannabis capsules offer numerous benefits, they also come with considerations. Potential side effects include:

• Delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours)
• Stronger effects than anticipated if improperly dosed
• Possible drowsiness, especially with indica-dominant formulations
• Dry mouth and increased appetite
• Potential interactions with certain medications

For those interested in the science behind how cannabis interacts with our bodies, the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating numerous physiological processes. Understanding this system can help you better appreciate how and why cannabis capsules work.

Want to learn more about cannabis basics? Check out our Cannabis 101 guide for a comprehensive introduction.

Choosing Your Ideal Formula

The beauty of making your own cannabis capsules is the ability to customize your formula based on desired effects. Here are some common formulations:

THC-rich capsules: These provide stronger psychoactive effects and are often chosen for pain relief, appetite stimulation, and recreational use. THC-dominant formulas are best for experienced users who understand their tolerance levels.

CBD-rich capsules: With minimal psychoactive effects, these are ideal for anxiety relief, inflammation reduction, and general wellness without the high. Many first-time users prefer starting with CBD-dominant formulations.

1:1 balanced capsules: Containing equal parts THC and CBD, these balanced formulas offer moderate psychoactive effects with the added benefits of CBD’s balancing properties. Many users report this ratio provides the most therapeutic benefits with manageable psychoactive effects.

Minor cannabinoid formulas: Including cannabinoids like CBN (for sleep), CBG (for inflammation), or THCV (for appetite suppression) can address specific needs. These specialized formulations are becoming increasingly popular as research advances.

“When helping customers at Terp Bros select the right formula, I always ask about their experience level and what effects they’re hoping to achieve,” shares our team. “For sleep issues, a THC/CBN combination often works wonders, while those seeking daytime relief without impairment might prefer CBD with a touch of THC.”

Why Capsules Over Other Methods?

Cannabis capsules offer distinct advantages that make them the preferred choice for many consumers:

Odorless consumption: Unlike smoking or vaping, capsules produce no telltale cannabis smell, making them ideal for discreet use.

Calorie-free alternative: Traditional edibles often come loaded with sugar and calories. Capsules deliver cannabinoids without the extra calories, perfect for those watching their intake.

Diet-friendly option: Capsules can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, sugar-free, kosher) by selecting appropriate ingredients and capsule shells.

Travel-friendly format: Their compact, pill-like appearance makes capsules easy to transport and consume on the go without drawing attention.

No combustion required: By eliminating smoke inhalation, capsules provide a lung-friendly alternative that many health-conscious consumers prefer.

Precise, consistent dosing: Each properly made capsule contains a specific amount of cannabinoids, eliminating the guesswork that comes with other consumption methods.

As one of our regular customers at Terp Bros Astoria location shares: “I switched to capsules after years of smoking because they’re so much easier on my lungs. Plus, I know exactly what dose I’m getting every time, which helps me manage my pain consistently throughout the day.”

How to Make Cannabis Capsules: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to create your own cannabis capsules at home? While it requires some specific equipment, the process is actually pretty straightforward once you have everything on hand. Let’s go through what you’ll need to get started.

You’ll want to gather these essential items: size 00 gelatin or vegetarian capsules (this size typically yields about 45-50 capsules per batch), a capsule filling machine (trust me, this is a game-changer for consistency), an oral syringe or eyedropper with measurement markings, and a digital scale for precise measurements. For the infusion itself, you’ll need 1/4 to 1/2 cup of coconut oil (or MCT oil), about 1/2 teaspoon of soy lecithin to improve bioavailability, a cooking thermometer, parchment paper, baking sheet, cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer, and a small funnel if you’re doing dry filling. Finally, you’ll need either a slow cooker or double-boiler setup, plus an airtight container for storage.

“Investing in a proper capsule filling machine is worth every penny,” our team at Terp Bros often tells customers. “While you can fill capsules one by one with a syringe, the machine makes the process at least 10 times faster and ensures consistent dosing across all your capsules.”

A typical home setup using 7-14 grams of cannabis and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of oil will yield approximately 45-50 capsules. Now let’s explore the different methods for making these capsules.

How to Make Cannabis Capsules with Oil Infusion

The oil infusion method is the most popular approach to how to make cannabis capsules because it significantly improves bioavailability, meaning your body can absorb the cannabinoids more efficiently. Here’s how to do it:

Start by grinding your cannabis to a coarse consistency – not too fine, not too chunky. This creates the optimal surface area for both decarboxylation and infusion. Next, spread your ground flower evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 220°F for about 30-45 minutes. This crucial decarboxylation step activates the cannabinoids by converting THCA to THC and CBDA to CBD.

While your cannabis is in the oven, melt your coconut oil in a slow cooker or double boiler. Once melted, stir in the soy lecithin until completely dissolved. After your cannabis is properly decarboxylated, add it to the oil mixture. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it to low (around 200°F) and let it infuse for 3-4 hours, giving it an occasional stir. For the double boiler method, maintain a low simmer for a similar amount of time.

After infusion, allow the mixture to cool slightly while still remaining liquid, then strain it through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean container. Press gently to extract all the oil without pushing plant material through. Let the infused oil cool to below 100°F – this is critical because if the oil is too hot, it will melt your gelatin capsules.

Set up your capsule filling machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then use your oral syringe to carefully fill each capsule with the infused oil. Most size 00 capsules hold approximately 0.5-0.7 ml of liquid. Once filled, cap the capsules according to your filling machine’s instructions and wipe any excess oil from the outside with a clean paper towel. Transfer your finished capsules to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator to prevent the oil from melting and maximize shelf life.

“The slow cooker method is my personal favorite,” shares our team at Terp Bros. “It maintains a steady temperature and allows for a hands-off approach while ensuring thorough extraction of cannabinoids.”

How to Make Cannabis Capsules with Dry Flower

If you’re looking for a quicker method to how to make cannabis capsules without the oil infusion process, dry flower capsules are an excellent alternative.

Begin with the same decarboxylation process as the oil method (220°F for 30-45 minutes). After decarboxylation, allow the cannabis to cool completely, then grind it to a very fine, almost powder-like consistency. This ensures even packing and maximum surface area for absorption.

Prepare your capsule filling machine with empty capsules according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a small funnel or card, carefully fill each capsule with your ground, decarboxylated cannabis. Tap the machine gently to settle the powder. Most capsule machines include a tamping tool – use this to compress the cannabis powder, then add more until the capsules are adequately filled. Finally, close the capsules according to your machine’s instructions and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

One Terp Bros customer who swears by this method told us: “I like the dry flower method because it’s quicker and I find it gives me more of the strain-specific effects than the oil method. Plus, I can mix in other beneficial herbs like turmeric or valerian root for added benefits.”

Using Store-Bought Concentrates & Tinctures

For those seeking convenience without sacrificing quality, using pre-made concentrates or tinctures can significantly streamline the capsule-making process.

First, choose your preferred concentrate. Options include RSO (Rick Simpson Oil), FECO (Full Extract Cannabis Oil), distillate, or tinctures – all of which can be purchased from licensed dispensaries like Terp Bros. For concentrates like distillate, you might want to mix with a small amount of coconut oil to increase volume and improve absorption, though this step is optional.

Using a syringe, carefully dispense your concentrate or tincture directly into capsules. For precise dosing, calculate the cannabinoid content per drop or milliliter before filling. Once filled, close the capsules and store them appropriately based on your concentrate type.

This method is particularly useful for creating microdose capsules or when working with high-potency concentrates that require minimal volume to achieve the desired effects.

If you’re interested in starting with quality tinctures for your capsules, check out our selection of Tinctures at Terp Bros. We’ve curated options that work beautifully for capsule making, with clear potency information to help you calculate your perfect dose.

Decarboxylation & Potency Math Made Easy

Decarboxylation is arguably the most critical step in making effective cannabis capsules. Without this process, the cannabinoids remain in their acidic forms (THCA, CBDA), which don’t produce the same effects as their activated counterparts (THC, CBD).

Think of decarboxylation as waking up your cannabis. It’s a simple chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group from the cannabinoid molecule, releasing carbon dioxide in the process. This change is what makes your cannabis both psychoactive and therapeutically effective when consumed in capsule form.

“Proper decarboxylation is what separates effective capsules from duds,” explains our team at Terp Bros. “If you skip or rush this step, you might end up with capsules that deliver minimal effects, regardless of how much cannabis you use.”

For the best results when decarboxylating your cannabis, aim for a temperature between 220-240°F and bake for about 30-45 minutes. Make sure your ground cannabis is spread evenly on the baking sheet to ensure uniform heating. I recommend checking periodically to make sure everything’s heating evenly without burning.

Different cannabinoids actually need slightly different decarb parameters. For THC, you’ll want about 240°F for 40 minutes, while CBD needs a longer time – about 90 minutes at the same temperature. If you’re looking for the sedative effects of CBN (great for sleep capsules!), you can intentionally “over-decarb” your THC at 240°F for about 3 hours.

Calculating Milligrams per Capsule

Understanding the potency of your homemade capsules doesn’t require a chemistry degree – just some simple math. While professional lab testing gives the most accurate results, you can make reasonable estimates using basic calculations.

For oil-based capsules, start by figuring out the total cannabinoids in your starting material. Let’s say you’re using 10 grams of cannabis that’s 15% THC. Multiply those numbers together and then by 1000 to convert to milligrams: 10 × 0.15 × 1000 = 1500mg total THC.

Next, account for extraction efficiency – you won’t get every last milligram out of the plant material. A reasonable estimate is about 75%: 1500mg × 0.75 = 1125mg THC in your oil.

Finally, divide by the number of capsules you’re making. If you’re filling 50 capsules: 1125mg ÷ 50 = 22.5mg THC per capsule.

For dry flower capsules, the math works a bit differently. After decarboxylation, you can expect about 87% conversion efficiency. So for 15% THC cannabis: 15% × 1000 × 0.87 = 130.5mg per gram. Then simply multiply by how much material fits in each capsule (typically 0.3-0.5g for size 00 capsules).

Dose Level	THC Content	Recommended For	Expected Effects
Microdose	1-2.5mg	Beginners, sensitive individuals	Subtle relief, minimal psychoactivity
Low Dose	2.5-5mg	New users, daytime use	Mild relaxation, functional high
Standard	5-15mg	Regular users	Noticeable euphoria, strong relief
High	15-30mg	Experienced users, severe symptoms	Intense effects, possible sedation
Very High	30mg+	Heavy users, high tolerance	Powerful effects, not recommended for most

“At Terp Bros, we always remind our customers that you can always take more, but you can’t take less once consumed,” our team emphasizes. “Starting with a lower dose and working your way up is always the wisest approach.”

Recommended Starting Doses & Onset Times

When it comes to how to make cannabis capsules that deliver the right experience, understanding proper dosing is crucial. The “start low, go slow” approach isn’t just a catchy phrase – it’s the difference between a pleasant experience and an overwhelming one.

For beginners with little to no tolerance, I recommend starting with just 2.5-5mg of THC. This might seem tiny, but oral cannabis is processed differently by your body. Wait at least 2-3 hours before considering taking more, and start with just once per day to see how your body responds.

Regular users with moderate tolerance typically find a 5-10mg dose provides the effects they’re seeking. Experienced users with high tolerance might need 10-25mg to achieve desired results.

The timeline for cannabis capsules is quite different from smoking or vaping. You’ll likely start feeling effects between 30-90 minutes after taking your capsule, with peak effects hitting around 2-4 hours later. The entire experience typically lasts 4-8 hours, sometimes longer depending on your metabolism and what you’ve eaten.

“One of the most common mistakes new users make is getting impatient with the onset time,” notes our team. “They take a capsule, don’t feel anything after 30 minutes, take another, and then both hit at once, resulting in an overwhelming experience.”

I’ve had customers tell me they thought their capsules weren’t working, took more, and then found themselves uncomfortably high for several hours. Edible forms of cannabis, including capsules, convert to 11-hydroxy-THC in your liver, which produces stronger and longer-lasting effects than inhaled cannabis.

For those interested in the science behind how cannabinoids are absorbed and processed in the body, this research on cannabinoid bioavailability provides fascinating insights into why capsules work the way they do.

Safe Use, Storage & Legal Tips + Next Steps

Making your own cannabis capsules is empowering, but like any cannabis product, they deserve respect and careful handling. Let’s talk about keeping you safe, your capsules fresh, and everything legal.

When it comes to using your homemade capsules, patience truly is a virtue. Always start with a low dose, especially when testing a new batch. I’ve seen too many friends get impatient with the 30-90 minute onset time and take a second dose, only to find themselves overwhelmed when both doses kick in simultaneously.

Mixing cannabis capsules with alcohol or certain medications can be risky business. The liver processes both substances, potentially intensifying effects or causing uncomfortable interactions. This is especially true with blood thinners and certain antidepressants. When in doubt, have a conversation with your healthcare provider.

“I always recommend having a CBD-dominant product on hand,” shares our Terp Bros team member Maria. “If you accidentally take too much THC and feel uncomfortable, CBD can help mellow those effects and bring you back to a more balanced state.”

Here’s a pro tip that many overlook: take your capsules with a fat-containing meal. Studies show this simple step can increase bioavailability by 2.5-3 times, giving you more bang for your buck and more predictable effects.

Your carefully crafted capsules deserve proper storage. For oil-based formulations, the refrigerator is your friend. The cool temperature prevents the oil from degrading and maintains potency longer. Pop a small silica gel packet in your storage container to absorb any moisture that might degrade your capsules. With proper storage, your homemade cannabis capsules typically stay potent for 2-3 months.

If you have little ones at home, a child-resistant bottle isn’t just recommended—it’s essential. Always label your containers clearly with contents and approximate potency. I like to include the date made and strain used for my own reference.

For our New York neighbors, it’s worth noting that adults 21 and over can legally possess and use cannabis products throughout the state. However, homemade products should be for personal use only—selling them crosses into territory that requires proper licensing.

At Terp Bros, we’re proud supporters of New York’s CAURD (Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary) program. “This initiative represents what cannabis legalization should look like,” explains Jeremy from our team. “It ensures that communities and individuals who were disproportionately impacted by prohibition now have pathways to benefit from legalization. It’s not just about business—it’s about justice.”

For our Queens customers, we offer convenient delivery to neighborhoods including Astoria, Woodside, Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, and Sunnyside. Our knowledgeable team is always ready to help you select the right products for your capsule-making trips.

Not feeling the DIY approach? We’ve got you covered with our selection of precisely dosed Edibles that deliver consistent experiences without the work.

Ready to explore more cannabis options beyond capsules? Our Shop All Products page features our carefully curated selection of premium cannabis goods, all aligned with our commitment to community and quality.

How to make cannabis capsules might seem intimidating at first, but with these safety guidelines and storage tips, you’re well on your way to creating medicine that’s personalized, effective, and perfectly suited to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Cannabis Capsules

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Cannabis Capsules

Are homemade cannabis capsules stronger than baked edibles?

The simple answer is not necessarily. The strength of any cannabis product ultimately comes down to its cannabinoid content, not how you consume it. That said, many people do report feeling stronger effects from capsules, and there are good reasons for this perception.

When you take a cannabis capsule, you’re getting a direct delivery of cannabis oil that your body can absorb efficiently. Unlike brownies or cookies where the cannabis is just one ingredient mixed into a batter, capsules contain concentrated cannabis oil without any dilution from flour, sugar, or other ingredients.

“I often hear customers say their homemade capsules hit harder than other edibles,” shares our team at Terp Bros. “What’s usually happening is they’re finally getting consistent dosing. With a batch of brownies, one piece might have way more THC than another if the oil wasn’t mixed evenly. With properly made capsules, each one delivers almost exactly the same dose every time.”

Another factor? Many people take capsules on an empty stomach, which can lead to faster absorption and more intense effects compared to edibles consumed alongside food. If you want a more gradual onset, try taking your cannabis capsules with a meal.

How can I make low-dose capsules for microdosing?

Microdosing cannabis—taking very small amounts for subtle benefits without feeling intoxicated—has become incredibly popular among our customers. Creating these low-dose capsules is surprisingly simple with a few adjustments to your standard how to make cannabis capsules process.

The easiest approach is to dilute your cannabis oil. If your infused oil contains approximately 10mg THC per ml, you can mix it with additional plain coconut oil at a 1:4 ratio to create a 2mg/ml concentration. This diluted oil can then be used to fill your capsules as normal.

For even more precise microdosing, consider using smaller capsule sizes. While our guide focuses on size 00 capsules, switching to size 0 or size 1 will naturally limit the volume of oil each capsule can hold.

“I’ve been helping customers create microdose capsules for years,” our team notes. “Many people find that 2-3mg of THC combined with 5-8mg of CBD provides amazing anxiety relief without any noticeable high. It’s perfect for staying functional throughout your workday.”

A graduated syringe with 0.1ml markings is essential for accurate filling when working with such small doses. Take your time with this process—the whole point of microdosing is precision.

What’s the best way to pick a strain for my specific needs?

Choosing the right strain for your capsules can dramatically influence their effects. Rather than getting caught up in the oversimplified indica/sativa classification, focus on finding strains with cannabinoid and terpene profiles that align with your goals.

For sleep and relaxation, look for indica-dominant strains high in myrcene and linalool terpenes. These compounds have sedative properties that complement THC’s relaxing effects. Northern Lights and Granddaddy Purple are classic choices, but we’ve also had customers report great results with 9 Pound Hammer, especially for stubborn insomnia.

If you’re making capsules for pain relief, consider balanced THC:CBD strains with beta-caryophyllene terpenes, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. Strains like ACDC and Harlequin provide effective pain management while minimizing excessive psychoactive effects.

For daytime use and focus, sativa-dominant strains with limonene and pinene terpenes tend to provide energizing, clear-headed effects. Jack Herer and Durban Poison are popular choices among our Astoria customers who need to stay productive while managing conditions like ADHD or chronic fatigue.

Those dealing with anxiety should approach strain selection carefully. While cannabis can be wonderful for anxiety, high-THC varieties sometimes trigger anxious feelings in sensitive individuals. We typically recommend high-CBD strains with linalool terpenes, which have anxiolytic properties. Charlotte’s Web and Remedy have been game-changers for many of our anxiety-prone customers.

“When helping someone choose strains for their cannabis capsules at our Astoria shop, we always dig deeper than just asking what they want to feel,” our team explains. “We want to know about their past experiences with cannabis, their tolerance level, and what specific symptoms they’re trying to address. This gives us a much better picture of what might work for their unique physiology.”

At Terp Bros, we’re passionate about helping our Queens community access cannabis products that genuinely improve their lives. Whether you’re making your own capsules or exploring our selection of premium products, our knowledgeable team is here to guide your journey. Visit us in Astoria or check out our delivery options serving neighborhoods throughout Queens.