CBD products, from tinctures to gummies, can bring forth a wide range of benefits. For example, they can help with relaxation, sleep hygiene and have proven useful when dealing with skincare complaints.
However, even though 20% of adults in the US use CBD products, many do not understand how the products are made. More specifically, they are unaware of how CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis plant.
Fortunately, that’s where this guide comes in handy!
What is CBD Oil?
CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of 113 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis Sativa or hemp plant. It is known primarily for its potential therapeutic benefits, which you can find out more about in our CBD Information Guide.
Though they are often discussed in tandem, CBD differs from THC, which is the psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant.
The majority of CBD products that you’ll find on the market today are made using CBD Oil. Unlike other essential oils, which are expressed or distilled through steam, CBD oil can be extracted in a variety of different ways, such as through CO2, Ethanol, or Olive Oil.
How is CBD Oil Extracted?
As mentioned above, there are three primary ways in which you can set about extracting CBD oil from the hemp plant. Each comes with its own benefits and potential drawbacks, impacting everything from the taste of the finished product to the potency of the oil.
CO2 Extraction
CO2 extraction is considered to be the most reliable method for CBD extraction. This is because it often produces a purer or higher-quality end product. The process of CO2 extraction is as follows:
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Liquid CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) is heated and pressurized to reach ‘supercritical’ levels. This means that it then has the properties of both a liquid and a gas, allowing for an easy and straightforward extraction.
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The extracted CO2 is then diffused throughout the plant material, which pulls out the oil and beneficial organic compounds known as terpenes.
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The solution is then separated, allowing for the CBD oil to be collected. The remaining CO2 is condensed, returning to its original liquid form. The CO2 can be used time and time again for similar projects.
Ethanol Extraction
Ethanol extraction is another common method to extract CBD oil from the hemp plant.
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Ethanol is cooled to temperatures of around -40°C (-40°F).
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The cooled ethanol serves as a solvent, which means that it can dissolve the necessary cannabinoids and terpenes from the dried Hemp.
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As this process also draws out unwanted materials, such as chlorophyll, it must be filtered through a secondary process.
Generally speaking, ethanol extraction is considered less preferable than CO2 extraction. This is because the filtration process makes for a less potent oil and can often leave behind a nasty taste.
Olive Oil Extraction
Olive oil extraction is another effective way to extract CBD oil from the hemp plant.
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The plant material is gently heated, which activates the chemicals inside, such as terpenes.
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The plant material is then simmered in olive oil for 1-2 hours, which helps extract the CBD from the plant. Alternatively, the plant material may be steeped (soaked) in the olive oil for several weeks without any heat being applied.
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Once the CBD material has been extracted, the mixture is strained, separating the CBD oil from the olive oil.
As this is a relatively simple process that requires minimal equipment, this is considered to be a safe way to create CBD-infused oil. However, it is highly perishable when compared to the methods listed above
Does CBD Oil Extraction Method Matter?
As referenced above, the method of CBD extraction used can have a great impact on the quality of the CBD. This can affect everything from its potency to its taste, which is why many people have a preference for products that are made through the CO2 Extraction method.
In addition to this, you may find that the method of extraction used by the manufacturer can impact the overall cost of the product. While producing the best end results, CO2 extraction requires both precision and the use of expensive tools and equipment.
Both olive oil steeping and ethanol extraction can take a great deal of time, with the latter requiring a lot of fine-tuning during the filtration process. Otherwise, you’d be left with an oil that contains a high volume of unwanted co-extracted materials.
In recent years, many people have been taking into account the environmental impact of CBD extraction. This, again, has allowed CO2 Extraction to rise in popularity, as the leftover CO2 can be re-used once the extraction process is complete.
In any case, it is important that you know how the CBD oil in your products of choice is extracted. This will allow you to make smarter, more informed decisions about what you’re ingesting or putting on your skin, giving you much greater peace of mind moving forward.
You can also ensure that you are putting your best foot forward by buying products from reliable, reputable sources, like Direct CBD Online.
Direct CBD Online
At Direct CBD Online, we pride ourselves on providing our consumers throughout the US with access to high-quality CBD products that they can trust. Our ever-growing product range includes gummies, tinctures, vape juice, massage oils, and even pet treats. This means that you have plenty of options to choose from when shopping for CBD goodies!
Not only that, but we’d also be happy to answer any questions you may have about our products, the extraction method used, and more. This way, you can feel as confident as possible in your decision to shop with us.
As such, please do not hesitate to get in touch today - we’d love to chat with you. Alternatively, if you’re ready to place an order, Visit our shop to browse our selection, stock up on your favorite products, and find new favorites!
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