When most cannabis users finish grinding up their bud, they’re quick to toss aside what’s left: the weed stems. But what if those fibrous leftovers were more useful than you thought? While you can’t smoke weed stems (and definitely shouldn’t), they’re far from useless.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about weed stems — what they are, why you shouldn’t smoke them, and most importantly, 5 smart and creative ways to use them.
Whether you’re looking to stretch your stash or reduce waste, repurposing weed stems can be a fun, eco-conscious way to make the most of your cannabis.
🌿 What Are Weed Stems?
Weed stems are the small, woody branches that support cannabis buds. They’re part of the plant’s structure and usually remain after the flower has been trimmed and ground up for use.
While stems contain trace amounts of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, they are nowhere near as potent as the actual flower. In fact, smoking or vaping stems is not recommended, as they contain harsh compounds and deliver little to no psychoactive effect.
But that doesn’t mean you should throw them away.
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Smoke Weed Stems
Let’s address the big question: can you smoke weed stems?
Technically, yes — but you really shouldn’t.
Here’s why:
- Low THC Content: Stems have negligible cannabinoid content, so you won’t get high.
- Harsh Smoke: Burning stems produces a harsh, unpleasant smoke that can irritate your throat and lungs.
- No Flavor: Unlike flower, stems offer no terpene-rich flavor.
- Headaches & Nausea: Some users report side effects like headaches, nausea, or dizziness after trying to smoke stems.
Conclusion: Smoking weed stems is a waste of time and product. But there are much better ways to use them — let’s explore those next.
✅ 1. Make a Weed Stem Tea
One of the most popular and relaxing ways to reuse weed stems is by making a calming cannabis-infused tea. It’s a gentle, non-smoking method that can extract trace cannabinoids and create a soothing drink.
How to Make Weed Stem Tea:
Ingredients:
- 1–2 grams of ground weed stems
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, butter, or milk (fats help bind THC)
- Optional: Tea bag (green, black, herbal) or flavoring like honey and lemon
Instructions:
- Boil the water in a small pot.
- Add stems and fat source (coconut oil or milk) to help THC bond.
- Simmer on low for 15–30 minutes.
- Strain out the stems.
- Add your tea bag or flavoring and steep as desired.
This tea won’t be super potent but may offer a mild body relaxation, perfect for winding down in the evening.
✅ 2. Create a Cannabis Tincture with Stems
Tinctures are alcohol-based cannabis extracts that are easy to make and use. Even though stems have low cannabinoid content, using them in a tincture can still yield a mild, homemade extract that’s great for microdosing or topical use.
What You’ll Need:
- At least ½ ounce of finely chopped weed stems
- High-proof alcohol (like Everclear)
- A mason jar
- Cheesecloth or coffee filter
- Dropper bottles for storage
Steps:
- Place the chopped stems in the mason jar.
- Pour alcohol over them until completely covered.
- Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 2–3 weeks.
- Shake daily.
- After steeping, strain out the solids.
- Store the liquid tincture in dropper bottles.
Usage Tip: Start with a few drops under the tongue and adjust as needed. Effects will be subtle but can help with relaxation, stress, or minor aches.
✅ 3. Infuse Weed Stems into Butter or Oil
Cannabis-infused butter or oil is the foundation of many edibles — and yes, you can make it with weed stems. While not as potent as using flower or kief, stem-infused butter is still great for light edibles or topical balms.
How to Make Stem Butter or Oil:
You’ll Need:
- ½ cup of chopped weed stems
- 1 cup of butter or oil (coconut or olive oil work well)
- Saucepan or slow cooker
- Cheesecloth for straining
Directions:
- Decarboxylate your stems (bake at 240°F for 40 minutes) to activate cannabinoids.
- Combine stems and butter/oil in a saucepan.
- Simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain out the plant matter using cheesecloth.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Use your infused butter in:
- Brownies
- Cookies
- Stir fry
- Coffee or tea
Note: Stem butter will be milder than flower-infused versions, so adjust your dosage expectations.
✅ 4. Make DIY Topicals and Balms
If you’re into natural remedies or skincare, cannabis stems can be used to make homemade topical creams or balms for muscle relief, inflammation, or joint pain.
Basic Cannabis Balm Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup cannabis stem-infused coconut oil (from above)
- 2 tbsp beeswax
- Optional: Essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus
Instructions:
- Melt the beeswax in a double boiler.
- Stir in your stem-infused oil.
- Add a few drops of essential oil.
- Pour into tins or jars and allow to solidify.
Use: Rub the balm onto sore muscles, temples, or dry skin for soothing relief.
While topicals don’t cause a high, they’re a great way to make useful self-care products from leftover weed stems.
✅ 5. Use Stems for Crafting or Smoking Tools
While weed stems aren’t great for smoking, they can be repurposed for crafting, DIY pipes, or even plant trellises. If you’re feeling creative, you can turn your weed stems into something fun.
Ideas Include:
- Weed Stem Art: Paint or glue stems onto canvas for a unique collage.
- Natural Filters: Use short stems in place of crutches in joints.
- Jewelry: Thin, flexible stems can be woven into hemp-style bracelets.
- Garden Support: Use large stems as mini plant stakes or compost them.
While these uses are more novelty than practical, they’re a fun and sustainable way to make your stash go further — and reduce waste.
♻️ Bonus Tip: Save Your Stems Over Time
If you don’t have enough weed stems to make tea, tincture, or butter right now — save them! Keep a “stem jar” somewhere cool and dry, and once you’ve collected a decent amount, revisit one of the methods above.
Storage Tips:
- Keep stems dry to prevent mold.
- Use a glass jar or airtight container.
- Label it and store out of sunlight.
🧠 Are Weed Stems Worth Using?
Absolutely — as long as you know what to expect. While weed stems won’t get you high like flower or concentrates, they’re far from useless.
Why it’s worth saving your stems:
- Great for infusions (tea, butter, oil)
- Can be used in DIY topicals and tinctures
- Encourage zero-waste cannabis use
- Useful for creative or craft projects
- Ideal for budget-conscious users
If you’re someone who appreciates stretching your stash or exploring new ways to use every part of the plant, weed stems have more value than most people think.
🛒 Where to Get the Most Out of Your Weed Stems
Of course, none of this is possible without high-quality cannabis. If you’re looking to build up a good supply of stems, it starts with buying well-trimmed, potent flower from a reliable source.
🌟 Supreme Dispensary – The Best Place to Buy Cannabis Online
Looking for top-tier cannabis flower, ounces, and bundle deals that let you get the most out of your weed — including the stems? Supreme Dispensary has you covered.
Why Supreme Dispensary?
✅ High-Quality Buds – More bud = more stems to use
✅ Best Ounce Deals – Perfect for bulk buyers who want long-term value
✅ Fast, Discreet Shipping – Trusted by thousands of customers across Canada
✅ Daily Promotions & Loyalty Rewards – Save more every time you shop
✅ Full Cannabis Menu – Flower, concentrates, edibles, and more
If you want to put your stems to good use, start with premium cannabis flower from a trusted source like Supreme Dispensary.
👉 Visit Supreme Dispensary and shop top-shelf products today.
📌 Final Thoughts on Weed Stems
Cannabis culture has evolved beyond just rolling joints or packing bowls. More and more people are looking for ways to get creative, reduce waste, and make the most of every gram — and weed stems are a great place to start.
While you shouldn’t smoke them, weed stems can be repurposed into:
So next time you’re tempted to throw them away, think twice. With a little effort, your leftover weed stems can serve a second (and surprisingly useful) purpose.
