WO2022155741A1

WO2022155741A1 - Activated cannabis products and methods for preparation

Info

Publication number: WO2022155741A1
Application number: PCT/CA2022/050081
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ashkan KOUCHAK
Original assignee: 2655626 Ontario Inc.
Priority date: 2021-01-20
Filing date: 2022-01-20
Publication date: 2022-07-28

Abstract

The present disclosure describes cannabis products and methods for producing one or more activated cannabinoids, comprising decarboxylating one or more cannabinoid acids in a cannabis source; and grinding the cannabis source; to produce the one or more activated cannabinoids. Embodiments describe one or more activated cannabinoids incorporated into a product, such as a tablet or capsule or other product, for humans or animals. Embodiments including drying the cannabis source prior to grinding and decarboxylation.

Description

ACTIVATED CANNABIS PRODUCTS AND METHODS FOR PREPARATION

FIELD

[0001] The present specification relates generally to cannabis products and more specifically to a method for preparing an activated cannabis product.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Cannabis includes a number of plant species. Cannabis can include compounds such as cannabinoid acids, including tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and/or cannabidiolic acid (CBDA).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] According to an aspect, a method for producing the one or more activated cannabinoids includes: decarboxylating one or more cannabinoid acids in a cannabis source; and grinding the cannabis source; to produce the one or more activated cannabinoids.

[0004] In some embodiments, the grinding is performed before the decarboxylating.

[0005] In some embodiments, the grinding is performed after the decarboxylating.

[0006] In some embodiments, the decarboxylating includes heating the one or more cannabinoid acids.

[0007] In some embodiments, the decarboxylating further includes heating the one or more cannabinoid acids at a temperature in a range from about 50°C to about 500°C.

[0008] In some embodiments, the decarboxylating further including heating the one or more cannabinoid acids for a time in the range from about 1 second to about 24 hours.

[0009] In some embodiments, the heating further including infusing the one or more cannabinoid acids with a heated liquid. [0010] In some embodiments, the heating further including heating the one or more cannabinoid acids in a container.

[0011] In some embodiments, further including incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a cannabis product.

[0012] In some embodiments, the incorporating further including incorporating one or more activated cannabinoids in an amount in a range of about 0 mg to about 100,000 mg.

[0013] In some embodiments, the incorporating further including incorporating one or more phytocannabinoids in an amount in a range of about 0 mg to about 100,000 mg.

[0014] In some embodiments, the incorporating further including incorporating one or more phytocannabinoids in an amount of about 2.5 mg, about 5.5 mg, about 8.5 mg, or over about 100,000 mg.

[0015] In some embodiments, the incorporating further includes incorporating one or more phytocannabinoids in an amount of about 0.1 mg to about 100,000 mg

[0016] In some embodiments, further including incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a topical gel, lotion, oil, tobacco product, suppository, nutritional supplement, beverage, food, capsule, or tablet.

[0017] In some embodiments, further including drying the cannabis source before the decarboxylating.

[0018] In some embodiments, wherein the grinding comprises mechanical grinding.

[0019] In some embodiments, wherein the grinding comprises one or more chemical reactions.

[0020] In some embodiments, further including selecting the cannabis source based on cannabinoid acid content.

[0021] In some embodiments, the selecting further including selecting the cannabis source based on tetrahydrocannabinolic acid content. [0022] In some embodiments, the selecting further including selecting the cannabis source based on cannabidiolic acid content.

[0023] In some embodiments, further including incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a capsule and colouring the capsule based on cannabinoid content.

[0024] In some embodiments, further including incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a tablet and colouring the capsule based on cannabinoid content.

[0025] In some embodiments, the incorporating further including filling the capsule with the one or more activated cannabinoids.

[0026] In some embodiments, the incorporating further including pressing the one or more activated cannabinoids into the tablet.

[0027] In some embodiments, further including adding one or more nutritional additives, one or more excipients, one or more spices, one or more herbs, one or more adaptogens, one or more mushroom-derived components, one or more oils, one or more cannabis distillates, one or more cannabis isolates, or a combination thereof.

[0028] In some embodiments, further including adding lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate, turmeric, lavender, vitamins, active pharmaceuticals, or a combination thereof.

[0029] In some embodiments, further including selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined bioavailability of the one or more active cannabinoids.

[0030] In some embodiments, further including selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined time to onset of an effect of the one or more active cannabinoids.

[0031] In some embodiments, further including selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined duration of an effect of the one or more active cannabinoids.

[0032] In some embodiments, further including selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined effect of the one or more active cannabinoids. [0033] According to an aspect, a cannabis product includes: a ground cannabis source having one or more cannabinoids activated by decarboxylation.

[0034] In some embodiments, the cannabis product further includes one or more nutritional additives, one or more excipients, one or more spices, one or more herbs, one or more adaptogens, one or more mushroom-derived components, one or more oils, one or more cannabis distillates, one or more cannabis isolates, or a combination thereof.

[0035] In some embodiments, the cannabis product further includes lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, di calcium phosphate, turmeric, lavender, vitamins, active pharmaceuticals, or a combination thereof.

[0036] In some embodiments, the cannabis product is a capsule having a casing.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cannabis product is a tablet.

[0038] In some embodiments, the cannabis product further includes hookah tobacco.

[0039] In some embodiments, the cannabis product further includes herbal tobacco.

[0040] In some embodiments, the cannabis product is tobacco free.

[0041] In some embodiments, the cannabis product is a topical gel, lotion, oil, tobacco product, suppository, nutritional supplement, a beverage, or a food product.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cannabis product is for animal use.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cannabis product is for human use.

[0044] In some embodiments, the one or more activated cannabinoids includes one or more phy tocannabinoi d s .

[0045] In some embodiments, the one or more activated cannabinoids is in a total amount in the range of about 0 mg to about 1000 mg. [0046] In some embodiments, the one or more activated cannabinoids are in a total amount being about 2.5 milligrams, 5.5 milligrams, 8.5 milligrams, or about 10 milligrams.

[0047] In some embodiments, the one or more activated cannabinoids are in a total amount in the range of about 0 mg to about 100,000 mg.

[0048] In some embodiments, the one or more activated cannabinoids are in a total amount being about 2.5 milligrams, 5.5 milligrams, 8.5 milligrams, about 10, or about 10,000 milligrams.

[0049] In some embodiments, the cannabis product further includes a colouring agent.

[0050] In some embodiments, an outer layer is translucent.

[0051] In some embodiments, an outer layer is a different colour(s) or material(s).

[0052] Other aspects and features according to the present application will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The principles may better be understood with reference to the accompanying figures provided by way of illustration of an exemplary embodiment, or embodiments, incorporating principles and aspects of embodiments, and in which:

[0054] FIG. 1 shows an activated cannabis source, according to an embodiment;

[0055] FIG. 2 shows a cannabis source, according to an embodiment;

[0056] FIG. 3 shows a cannabis source spread out for activation by decarboxylation, according to an embodiment;

[0057] FIG. 4 shows a protein powder cannabis product containing within it an activated cannabinoid, according to an embodiment; [0058] FIG. 5 shows a hookah tobacco cannabis product containing within it an activated cannabinoid, according to an embodiment;

[0059] FIG. 6 shows a hookah tobacco cannabis product containing within it an cannabinoid, according to another embodiment;

[0060] FIG. 7 shows means by which a cannabis source can be mechanically ground, according to an embodiment;

[0061] FIG. 8(a) shows a cannabis source in a container being inserted into an oven for decarboxylation, according to an embodiment;

[0062] FIG. 8(b) shows a cannabis source spread out for decarboxylation, according to an embodiment;

[0063] FIG. 9 shows a cannabis source and a heat activated cannabis source, according to an embodiment;

[0064] FIG. 10 shows digested and activated cannabis that has been poured into translucent capsules, according to an embodiment; and

[0065] FIG. 11 shows ground and activated cannabis that has been pressed into tablets using a mechanical press, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, are provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the invention. In the description, like parts are marked throughout the specification and the drawings with the same respective reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and in some instances proportions may have been exaggerated in order more clearly to depict certain features of the invention. [0067] Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) can be activated through decarboxylation to produce tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively. There is an increasing demand for ways to consume active components of cannabis and cannabis-related products, namely tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), in a manner that efficiently provides consumers with desired effects.

[0068] Cannabis can be consumed using combustibles, vapors, edibles, tinctures, or topicals. Smoking may involve the use of common pipes, water pipes, or rolled cannabis whereas consuming cannabis vapor can be provided using vaporizers, vape pens, and dabbing. Oral routes of ingestion can involve incorporating cannabis into a beverage, baked good, or other food product to be absorbed through the digestive tract. Tinctures steep cannabis in alcohol to permit absorption through sublingual blood vessels while topicals incorporate cannabinoids into creams or spreads that permit absorption through the skin.

[0069] However, many means of consuming cannabis products are not especially effective nor efficient at delivering the active forms of the chemicals comprising cannabis that provide desired effects or may come with other drawbacks. A further means of consuming cannabis products may result in a more effective, more precise or otherwise desirable means of delivering desired effects.

[0070] According to an embodiment, this description relates to a method of creating a cannabis product, comprising the steps of activating a cannabis source with a decarboxylation reaction and grinding the cannabis source to create activated cannabis and thereafter incorporating the activated cannabis into a product for human consumption. According to an embodiment, the cannabis source is ground before or after the decarboxylation reaction. According to an embodiment, the product (e.g., for human or animal use or consumption) is: a topical gel, lotion or oil, tobacco product, tobacco-free, nutritional supplement, beverage, or food product. The cannabis in the product for human or animal consumption is decarboxylated and can be in a much more precise dosing format. In contrast, products not prepared using this method can contain THCA and CBDA that are not entirely converted to the active molecule through combustion, physiological digestion or topical absorption and this can result in uncertain and imprecise dosing of the active compounds. [0071] According to further embodiments, this description relates to drying the cannabis source prior to activating the cannabis source with a decarboxylation reaction and grinding the cannabis source. Embodiments may grind the cannabis source using mechanical and/or chemical steps, whereas the decarboxylation reaction may involve heating the cannabis source, with or without the use of a container. Embodiments may involve heating the cannabis source in the range of about 50°C to about 500°C or any temperature in between for a period of between about 1 second and about 24 hours. Embodiments may involve selecting a cannabis source based on cannabinoid or cannabinoid acid content, including but not limited to THCA, CBDA, CBD, CBG or CBN content. The cannabis source may also be decarboxylated by heating a liquid such as an oil containing the cannabis source.

Products Containing Activated Cannabis

[0072] According to an embodiment, a cannabis source, like the flower of a cannabis plant or other natural source of cannabis, is cut, ground, blended, or otherwise ground into a fine form and then subject to a decarboxylation reaction to activate the active components of the cannabis. Such a decarboxylation reaction on tetrahydrocannabinolic acid converts it into its active form, tetrahydrocannabinol. The decarboxylation reaction may convert the majority of any cannabidiolic acid, tetrahydrocannabivarin or cannabigerovarin compounds which are present in the cannabis source into the active forms of each of these compounds. According to an alternative embodiment, the cannabis source undergoes a decarboxylation reaction and thereafter ground by cutting, grinding, blending, or otherwise converting the activated cannabis into a fine form. Once the cannabis has been both ground and decarboxylated, the ground cannabis is incorporated into a product for human or animal consumption or use. According to a further embodiment, the cannabis source is dried prior to grinding or activation. According to an embodiment, grinding may involve mechanical or chemical steps or some combination thereof. According to an embodiment, instead of grinding the cannabis, infusion of the material into a heated liquid is performed. The cannabis source may or may not be ground prior to infusion in a heated liquid. The heated liquid facilitates decarboxylation reaction(s) on inactive cannabinoid(s) (e.g., cannabinoid acid(s)) contained in the cannabis source, according to some embodiments. This converts the cannabinoid acid(s) to the respective activated cannabinoid form, according to some embodiments.

[0073] According to an embodiment, a cannabis source 3100 may be ground through the use of any of a number of devices, including but not limited to a cutting device like scissors, a rotary blade such as that found in a household blender, a spice grinder, or a mortar and pestle. Cannabis source 3100 may be ground before or after undergoing a decarboxylation step. According to an embodiment, cannabis source 3100 is ground to different particle sizes based on an intended use of cannabis source 3100.

[0074] According to an embodiment, a cannabis source 3100 or a ground cannabis source 2100 (e.g., milled cannabis flower) is subject to a decarboxylation reaction. The decarboxylation reaction may be triggered by application of heat. Cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 may undergo a decarboxylation reaction by heating cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100. Cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 may be heated in an oven, including but not limited to a household oven or an industrial oven. Cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 may, alternatively and without limitation, be heated under a lamp, in an oven, or by way of a sous-vide or immersion circulator. According to an embodiment, cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 are heated in a container, for example, a mason jar or baking tray 3200, as shown in FIG. 3. According to a further embodiment, cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 are heated at a temperature in the range of about 100°F to about 500°F, or about 180°F to about 220°F, or about 180°F to about 1000°F. According to yet another embodiment, cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 are heated for a time between about 1 second and about 24 hours. According to an embodiment, a cannabis source 3100 or a ground cannabis source 2100 is infused in a liquid, such as a heated liquid.

[0075] According to an embodiment, ground cannabis source 2100 may be sifted to yield a consistent particle size suitable for an intended use of ground cannabis source 2100 following decarboxylation. Ground cannabis source 2100 may be sifted before or after decarboxylation. [0076] According to a further embodiment, heating of cannabis source 3100 or ground cannabis source 2100 may serve to dry the cannabis and thereby enhance its stability. Product stability can be enhanced due to the cannabis being much dryer than typical cannabis intended for inhalation.

[0077] According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 1 - 2, a cannabis source 3100 and an activated cannabis source 1100 (e.g., following decarboxylation and grinding) which was activated by heating may be differentiated based on slight variation in coloration, with the heat activated cannabis being of a darker coloration.

[0078] According to an embodiment shown in FIGs. 4 - 6, a ground activated cannabis source 1100 may be incorporated into a product for consumption (e.g., by a human or animal) or application or use. As shown in FIG. 4, the product may be protein powder 4100. Alternatively, the product may be hookah tobacco 5100, as shown in FIGs. 5 - 6, or may be herbal tobacco. In other embodiments, the product may be a topical gel, lotion or oil, tobacco product, nutritional supplement, beverage, food product, topical, suppository, capsules, tablets, sprays, liquid, sublingual, or product for inhalation or formulation into an edible form. According to an embodiment, the tobacco product is hookah tobacco, the nutritional supplement is protein powder, the beverage is one of tea or coffee, and the food product is one of gum, a protein bar, or candy. Any product intended for human or animal consumption or use can have added embodiments. Some examples include: hot or cold beverages, dried foods such as granola, topical creams or ointments, cosmetics, hookah, inhalers, spray mist, animal food, etc. An embodiment (e.g., a cannabis source or a cannabis source after decarboxylation and/or grinding and/or infusion in a liquid) can also be applied to a surface, such as a spoon, straw, or beverage container. When food or liquid is added or consumed, the embodiment would be consumed.

[0079] According to an embodiment, a phytocannabinoid content of cannabis source 3100 may vary. According to a further embodiment, cannabis source 3100 contains one or more inactive compounds that can be activated by decarboxylation to produce cannabinoids, such as a phytocannabinoid, including but not limited to THC, CBD, CBN, CBG, THCV, or any combination of phytocannabinoids. According to some embodiments, an amount in the range from 0 mg (or 0.1 mg) and 100,000 mg (e.g., 0 mg (or 0.1 mg) and 1000 mg, or any amount therebetween) of the at least one phytocannabinoid is incorporated in a single serving or dose of the product for human consumption. According to a further embodiment, about 2.5 milligrams, about 5.5 milligrams, about 8.5 milligrams, over about 10 milligrams, about 100,000 mg, or over 100,000 mg of the at least one phytocannabinoid is incorporated in a single serving or dose of the product for human consumption to permit users to have the selection from different cannabis products of varying strengths to suit consumer preferences. A product can contain between about 2-3 mg, about 5-6 mg, about 8-9 mg, or about or over 10 mg of cannabinoid(s). A product can contain any of a different amount of cannabinoid(s). For example, in some embodiments, a capsule or tablet contains an amount in the range between about 2 mg to about 10 mg. As another example, in some embodiments, a different product contains an amount in the range between about 2 mg (or about 0 or about 0.1 mg) to about 100,000 mg or more (e.g., 10,000 mg).

[0080] According to an embodiment, cannabis source 3100 may include cannabis distillate or isolate. According to an embodiment, cannabis source 3100 may be natural cannabis of varying purity. According to a further embodiment, cannabis source 3100 is pure cannabis.

[0081] According to an embodiment, cannabis or hemp undergoes decarboxylation. For example, heat can be applied (e.g., introduced) to the cannabis or hemp for a period of about 1 second to about 24 hours or any time period within that range. The heat can be at a temperature or create a temperature within a range from about 10 degrees Celsius to about 500 degrees Celsius or more or any temperature within that range. The cannabis or hemp is heated to trigger one or more decarboxylation reactions of compounds in the cannabis or hemp. A decarboxylation reaction activates one or more compounds in the cannabis or hemp (e.g., THCA- A, CBDA, and/or CBGA, etc.), such as to produce cannabinoids (e.g., THC, CBD, CBG, etc.). Next, the cannabis and/or isolated decarboxylated compounds (e.g., cannabinoids) is mixed with compounds such as hookah, molasses, herbal molasses, protein powder, oil, or foods, etc. These can be selected based on desired properties of the product. A natural product that contains or is infused with activated cannabis or hemp (e.g., THC, CBD, CBG, etc.) can be produced. The duration of mixing the activated cannabis or hemp can vary from product to product. For example, a protein powder product can be created as an instant mix, using a process of blending the activated cannabis or hemp (e.g., cannabinoids) with other compounds. As another example, hookah can be mixed with the activated cannabis or hemp for a duration in the range of 1 second to one or more hours (or a time in between) for properly blending and/or amalgamating the components. The cannabinoid contents from cannabis or hemp can be THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, any other cannabinoid, and/or any combination of one or more compounds. In some embodiments, other herbs, adaptogens, excipients, and/or other compounds can be used, blended, or mixed with the product. Such compounds can include mushrooms or mushroom-derived components (e.g., lion’s mane, psilocybin), turmeric, lavender, vitamin C, and/or other vitamins, herbal medicines, active pharmaceuticals ingredients (e.g., opioids, acetaminophen, etc.), beverages, topicals, bath products, skin products, etc.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the effects, duration, onset, and bioavailability can vary depending on the method of preparation, such as temperature, order of steps, or duration of steps. Onset and/or duration can be in an instant or up to a few hours.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the cannabis source is dried prior to activation. Embodiments may use either mechanical or chemical digestion and heat may be used to facilitate decarboxylation of the cannabis source. Cannabis sources may be selected based on cannabinoid or inactive cannabinoid content. In some embodiments, products produced to contain activated cannabinoid(s) following decarboxylation include capsules or tablets. These can be colour coded, with colours corresponding to content of cannabinoid(s). Capsules can be transparent or translucent or opaque, for example. Capsules or tablets can have any of a variety of colours and can be comprised of any of a variety of materials. A nutritional additive, binding excipient, spice, or oil may be added to the cannabis product and a capsule filling machine or a tablet pressing machine may be used to assist with production.

[0084] According to an embodiment, this description relates to a method of creating a cannabis product, comprising the steps of activating a cannabis source with a decarboxylation reaction and grinding the cannabis source to create activated cannabis and thereafter pouring the activated cannabis into a capsule or compacting the activated cannabis into a tablet. According to an embodiment, grinding is performed before or after the decarboxylation reaction. The cannabis is decarboxylated and can be in a much more precise dosing format. In contrast, THC and CBD may or may not be entirely converted to the active molecule through combustion and this can result in uncertain and imprecise dosing.

[0085] According to further embodiments, this description relates to drying the cannabis source prior to activating the cannabis source with a decarboxylation reaction and grinding the cannabis source. Embodiments may digest the cannabis source using mechanical or chemical digestion, whereas the decarboxylation reaction may involve heating the cannabis source, with or without the use of a container. Embodiments may involve selecting a cannabis source based on cannabinoid or cannabinoid acid content, including but not limited to THCA, CBD, CBG or CBN content. Embodiments may incorporate colour coding of the capsule or tablet by adding a colouring agent. Embodiments may also include adding a nutritional additive, a binding excipient, a spice, an oil, a cannabis distillate, or a cannabis isolate to the capsule or tablet, with examples thereof including but not limited to lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate, turmeric, or lavender. Embodiments may include the use of a capsule filling machine in pouring the activated cannabis into the capsule or a tablet pressing machine in compacting the activated cannabis into the tablet.

[0086] According to an embodiment, this description relates to a cannabis product comprising a cannabis source ground and decarboxylated into active cannabis, and a casing, wherein the casing may be a compressed outer layer of the active cannabis or a capsule that the active cannabis is encased in.

[0087] According to further embodiments, the capsule is approximately transparent or is opaque, a colouring agent is added to the casing, and active cannabis that contains at least one cannabinoid compound, for example, THC or CBD or other cannabinoid, is included in the capsule. According to an embodiment, the total cannabinoid content of the active cannabis such as prepared in a capsule or tablet may be any value from 0 mg to 1000 mg or more, such as having 1000 mg of CBD or other cannabinoid(s) (with no THC), only CBD (with no other cannabinoid(s)), CBD and CBN, THC and CBD or other cannabinoid(s), no CBD and all THC or other cannabinoid(s), or any other combination of cannabinoid(s). In some embodiments, the active cannabis may contain about 2.5 milligrams, about 5.5 milligrams, about 8.5 milligrams, about 10 milligrams of cannabinoid, or an amount in the range between about 0 mg (or about 0.1 mg) to about 100,000 mg or more (e.g., to about 10,000 mg). There can be approximately: 2.5 mg of THC with 15 mg CBD, or 5.0 mg of THC and 1 mg CBN, or 1 mg THC and 20 mg CBD, or 18 mg CBD and 6 mg CBG, such as in a tablet or capsule. Content may vary slightly from capsule to capsule or tablet to tablet. Embodiments may be further comprised of a nutritional additive, a binding excipient, a spice, an oil, a cannabis distillate, or a cannabis isolate, examples of which include lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate, turmeric, and/or lavender.

[0088] In some embodiments, as an example, there can be different combinations of cannabinoid(s) in various amounts ranging from about 0 mg (or about 0.1 mg) to about 100,000 mg. The amounts and combinations can be selected to provide a desired effect, physiological response, onset, duration, or other parameter.

Delivering Cannabis’ Active Components

[0089] Cannabis products can be consumed by smoking, vaporizing, cooking cannabis into edible food stuffs, steeping cannabis in alcohol for delivery as a tincture, and applying topical creams containing cannabis to a consumer’s skin. These different methods provide different effects and benefits to consumers.

[0090] Among these means of cannabis consumption, there are several drawbacks. The particulate matter generated by smoking can damage one’s lungs, which can harm or hinder users. Vaporizers are relatively expensive in comparison to other means of cannabis consumption, with vaporizer cartridges being similarly expensive and largely not cross-compatible between different vaporizers or vaporizer brands. Edibles may be undesirable for users looking to experience the effects of cannabis without consuming food. Furthermore, many common edibles contain unhealthy additives, like sugar, which can be problematic for certain consumers. Tinctures can pose difficulty with respect to controlling dose as the liquid volume of the product must be measured with a high degree of accuracy to ensure the consumer does not consume too much or too little cannabis product. Topicals often have a low quantity of cannabis’ active components and can pose difficulty for users when determining how much of a topical to use to generate a desired effect as the volume of topical must be accurately measured and then spread evenly over the user’s body to facilitate a predictable effect. Irrespective of the chosen method of delivery, delivery of an accurate dose of one or more cannabinoids to the user can be difficult, as is measuring a user’s actual cannabinoid ingestion or inhalation.

[0091] Developing a new cannabis product and method of manufacturing thereof that is not limited by traditional drawbacks would be of benefit to both current and prospective cannabis consumers. In this regard, eliminating the need for the use of carriers such as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), olive oils, or other oils and focusing the cannabis product on the active components itself would help consumers more accurately and predictably determine what quantity of active component they are consuming and more directly receive the desired active dose. This measured, predictable consumption of active cannabinoid compounds can enable consumers of the product to better control and monitor the effects of their consumption. Accurate dosing can enable medical practitioners to better manage their patients’ care. Thus, a simple and natural approach to cannabis consumption is disclosed herein where cannabis products provide the potency and effectiveness of the active components of cannabis without using carriers or cannabis paraphernalia.

Capsules and Tablets Containing Activated Cannabis

[0092] According to an embodiment, a cannabis source, such as the flower of a cannabis plant or other natural source of cannabis, is ground (e.g., cut, blended, etc.) into a fine form and subsequently subjected to a decarboxylation reaction to activate the active components of the cannabis. Such a decarboxylation reaction may convert tetrahydrocannabinolic acid into its active form, tetrahydrocannabinol. The decarboxylation reaction may convert the majority of any inactive cannabis-derived compound into active forms of each of these compounds. Compounds can include cannabidiolic acid, tetrahydrocannabivarin or cannabigerovarin compounds. According to an alternative embodiment, the cannabis source may be subject to a decarboxylation reaction and thereafter ground by cutting, grinding, blending, or otherwise converting the activated cannabis into a fine form. Once the cannabis source has been both ground and decarboxylated, the ground cannabis is either poured into a capsule or pressed into a tablet for consumption. According to a further embodiment, the cannabis source is dried prior to digestion or activation. According to an embodiment, digestion may be mechanical or chemical or some combination thereof. [0093] According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the cannabis source may be ground through the use of any of a number of devices, including but not limited to a cutting device like scissors 7100, a rotary blade like as found in a household blender 7200, a spice grinder, or a mortar and pestle 7300.

[0094] According to an embodiment shown in FIGs. 8(a) and 8(b), the cannabis source (e.g., before or after being ground) may undergo a decarboxylation reaction by heating the cannabis. According to a further embodiment, the cannabis source may be heated in the range of 150°F to 500°F. According to yet a further and preferred embodiment, the cannabis source may be heated in the range of 180°F to 220°F. According the embodiment shown in FIG. 8(a), heating of the cannabis source may be done in an oven 8100 and with the use of a container 8200, including but not limited to a mason jar. According to an alternative embodiment, heating of the cannabis source can be in an industrial oven. According to an embodiment, the ground and activated cannabis may be sifted to yield a consistent particle size suitable for filling capsules or pressing into tablets. According to a further embodiment, heating of the cannabis source may serve to dry the cannabis and thereby enhance its stability. Product stability can be enhanced due to the cannabis being much dryer than typical cannabis intended for inhalation. By placing the cannabis in a capsule or compressing into a tablet and storing in sealed containers, oxygen exposure to the cannabis can be minimized, therefore slowing degradation.

[0095] According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 9, a cannabis source 9100 and heat activated cannabis 9200 may be differentiated based on slight variation in coloration, with the heat activated cannabis 9200 being of a darker coloration.

[0096] According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the ground and activated cannabis may be poured into a capsule. For example, a capsule can be transparent, translucent or opaque, colourless or coloured capsules, such as white capsules.

[0097] According to a further embodiment, machinery, such as a semi-automatic capsule filling machine or a tablet making machine, may be used to either pour or compact the ground and activated cannabis into a capsule or tablet, respectively. According to a further embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the ground and activated cannabis may be pressed into tablets using a mechanical press 11100 to be subsequently stored in air-tight containers. The containment of the ground and activated cannabis within a capsule or other air-tight container may minimize exposure of the cannabis to oxygen and may thereby slow its degradation over time.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the active component content of capsules and tablets containing the ground and activated cannabis may vary. According to a further embodiment, the capsule or tablet may contain one or more cannabinoid compounds, including but not limited to THC, CBD, CBN, CBG, THCV, or any combination of phytocannabinoids for a total cannabinoid content in the range from about 0 mg (or about 0.1 mg) to over about 1000 mg or in the range from about 0 mg (or about 0.1 mg) to about 100,000 mg. According to a further and preferred embodiment, capsules or tablets may contain between about: 2-3 mg, 5-6 mg, 8-9 mg, or over 10 mg of cannabinoid(s), or, in some embodiments, up to about 100,000 mg (e.g., about 10,000 mg), for example, and permit users to have the selection from different cannabis products of various strengths to suit consumer preferences. According to a further embodiment, capsules or tablets may be colour coded such that the colouration of a capsule or tablet is indicative of some aspect of its content, such as THC or CBD content. According to yet a further embodiment, colour coding of capsules or tablets may be performed with the use of a colouring agent (e.g., additive), such as food coloring, or by using color coding machinery.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the cannabis source may include cannabis distillate or isolate. According to an embodiment, the cannabis source may be natural cannabis having a purity within an acceptable range. According to a further embodiment, the cannabis source is pure cannabis.

[00100] According to an embodiment, nutritional additives or binding excipients may be added to the capsules or tablets containing ground and activated cannabis. According to a further embodiment, these additives may include but are not limited to lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate, or any combination thereof. Lecithin may be used to help facilitate better binding for the tablets as well as for its nutritional benefits. Microcrystalline cellulose can offer bonding properties while retaining high flowability, which can be useful to help ensure it is evenly spread throughout the cannabis mixture used in the capsules and tablets. Silicon dioxide can absorb liquid, which can be used to turn liquid ingredients into free-flowing powders that can then be implemented into a composition used in created the content of the capsules or tablets. Magnesium stearate can be used to help prevent the composition from adhering to machinery or other apparatuses used in manufacturing the tablets or capsules. Dicalcium phosphate can be used to help allow tablets or capsule contents be shaped and solidified. Ingredients can be added to provide desirable characteristics that contribute to producing an effective and high-quality capsule or tablet.

[00101] According to an embodiment, turmeric, lavender, spices, aromatherapy oils, or other additives may be incorporated in the content of the capsule or tablet.

[00102] Various embodiments of the invention have been described in detail. Since changes in and or additions to the above-described best mode may be made without departing from the nature, spirit or scope of the invention, the invention is not to be limited to those details but only by the appended claims. Section headings herein are provided as organizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the invention set out in the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for producing the one or more activated cannabinoids, comprising: decarboxylating one or more cannabinoid acids in a cannabis source; and grinding the cannabis source; to produce the one or more activated cannabinoids.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the grinding is performed before the decarboxylating.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the grinding is performed after the decarboxylating.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, the decarboxylating comprising heating the one or more cannabinoid acids.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, the decarboxylating further comprising heating the one or more cannabinoid acids at a temperature in a range from about 50°C to about 500°C.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, the decarboxylating further comprising heating the one or more cannabinoid acids for a time in the range from about 1 second to about 24 hours.

7. The method of any one of claims 4 to 6, the heating further comprising infusing the one or more cannabinoid acids with a heated liquid.

8. The method of any one of claims 4 to 7, the heating further comprising heating the one or more cannabinoid acids in a container.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a cannabis product.

10. The method of claim 9, the incorporating further comprising incorporating one or more activated cannabinoids in an amount in a range of about 0 mg to about 100,000 mg. The method of claim 10, the incorporating further comprising incorporating one or more phytocannabinoids in an amount in a range of about 0 mg to about 100,000 mg. The method of claim 11, the incorporating further comprising incorporating one or more phytocannabinoids in an amount of about 0.1 mg to about 100,000 mg. The method of any one of claims 9 to 12, further comprising incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a topical gel, lotion, oil, tobacco product, suppository, nutritional supplement, beverage, food, capsule, or tablet. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising drying the cannabis source before the decarboxylating. The method of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the grinding comprises mechanical grinding. The method of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the grinding comprises one or more chemical reactions. The method of any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising selecting the cannabis source based on cannabinoid acid content. The method of claim 17, the selecting further comprising selecting the cannabis source based on tetrahydrocannabinolic acid content. The method of claim 17, the selecting further comprising selecting the cannabis source based on cannabidiolic acid content. The method of any one of claims 1 to 19, further comprising incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a capsule and colouring the capsule based on cannabinoid content. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising incorporating the one or more activated cannabinoids into a tablet and colouring the tablet based on cannabinoid content. The method of claim 20, the incorporating further comprising filling the capsule with the one or more activated cannabinoids. The method of claim 21, the incorporating further comprising pressing the one or more activated cannabinoids into the tablet. The method of any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising adding one or more nutritional additives, one or more excipients, one or more spices, one or more herbs, one or more adaptogens, one or more mushroom-derived components, one or more oils, one or more cannabis distillates, one or more cannabis isolates, or a combination thereof. The method of any one of claims 1 to 24, further comprising adding lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate, turmeric, lavender, vitamins, active pharmaceuticals, or a combination thereof. The method of any one of claims 1 to 25, further comprising selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined bioavailability of the one or more active cannabinoids. The method of any one of claims 1 to 26, further comprising selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined time to onset of an effect of the one or more active cannabinoids. The method of any one of claims 1 to 27, further comprising selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined duration of an effect of the one or more active cannabinoids. The method of any one of claims 1 to 28, further comprising selecting a duration, order, or temperature of a step to obtain a predefined effect of the one or more active cannabinoids. A cannabis product, comprising: 22 a ground cannabis source having one or more cannabinoids activated by decarboxylation. The cannabis product of claim 30, further comprising one or more nutritional additives, one or more excipients, one or more spices, one or more herbs, one or more adaptogens, one or more mushroom-derived components, one or more oils, one or more cannabis distillates, one or more cannabis isolates, or a combination thereof. The cannabis product of claim 30 or 31, further comprising lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate, turmeric, lavender, vitamins, active pharmaceuticals, or a combination thereof. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 32, the cannabis product being a capsule having a casing. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 33, the cannabis product being a tablet. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 34, the cannabis product further comprising hookah tobacco. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 34, the cannabis product further comprising herbal tobacco. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 34, the cannabis product being tobacco free. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 36, the cannabis product being a topical gel, lotion, oil, tobacco product, suppository, nutritional supplement, a beverage, or a food product. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 37, the cannabis product being for animal use. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 38, the cannabis product being for human use. 23 The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 39, the one or more activated cannabinoids comprising one or more phytocannabinoids. The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 40, the one or more activated cannabinoids in a total amount in the range of about 0 mg to about 100,000 mg The cannabis product of any one of claims 30 to 41, the one or more activated cannabinoids in a total amount being about 2.5 milligrams, 5.5 milligrams, 8.5 milligrams, about 10, or about 10,000 milligrams. The cannabis product of claims 33 or 34, further comprising a colouring agent. The cannabis product of claim 33, the casing being translucent.