Cannabis concentrates, which are also known as cannabis extracts, are significantly more potent than standard cannabis buds. These concentrates provide significant medicinal benefits that have been proven to be effective for a wide variety of ailments. When extracted properly, a cannabis concentrate is reminiscent of the cannabis strain it was taken from, and the taste, smell, and effects are magnified due to a larger concentration by weight.
There are safe and effective ways to extract and produce cannabis oil that’s rich in CBD (CBDExplorer.com), and each has its pros and cons. Some methods are safer than others, and some are more effective. Cannabis oil that’s made with neurotoxic substances, such as hexane and butane, can leave unsafe residues that compromise your immune system and actually impede healing.
While there are safe and effective means, the extraction of cannabis concentrates is a complex process and can potentially be dangerous. It should only be performed by trained professionals. These are the most common extraction methods.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction (CO2 Extraction)
The supercritical CO2 method uses carbon dioxide under high pressures and extremely low temperatures. This process isolates, preserves, and maintains the purity of cannabis oil. It involves very expensive equipment, and a steep operation curve. However, when it’s done well, the end product will be potent, safe, and free of many toxins such as chlorophyll. CO2 extraction is perhaps the most popular method and is widely regarded as the best when it comes to safety.
It doesn’t require any chemical solvents, which is a big reason why people prefer it. The extracts are made only using carbon dioxide, which is compressed until it creates supercritical fluid. This fluid then strips essential oils from the cannabis plant, in a similar way to propane, BHO, or hexane. However, this method specifically is unique in the way it uses supercritical fluid, which has the properties of both gas and liquid. This enables it to dissolve the plant matter thoroughly. In comparison to BHO, the CO2 method is easier to control and the resulting extract contains more terpenes.
While the CO2 method is most popular and regarded as the safest, it does require expensive and extensive lab equipment. Typically, this method can only be done by professional laboratories.
Ethanol
Alcohol that contains high-grade grain can be used to create high-quality cannabis oil. This oil is appropriate for vape pen cartridges and other such products. However, this extraction method destroys the plant waxes. These waxes contain some benefits that are favored by both product-makers, and users.
Olive Oil
Extra virgin or otherwise, olive oil may also be used as an efficient extraction method for cannabis oil. This method can be both safe and inexpensive. However, cannabis-infused olive oil, whether it’s THC-dominant or CBD-rich, is perishable and should be stored in a cool and dark place.
There are several extraction methods to obtain cannabis oil. While they are all accessible to regular people, it’s recommended that extraction be left to the professionals. The experts will be able to conduct extraction safely, and they will have the equipment available to do so.