There are many things to consider when discussing finding the best CBD oils on the market.
The CBD extraction process is one of the most important.
This is why it is essential. There are many ways to obtain CBD from hemp, but some are better and more efficient than others.
Knowing how your CBD was extracted is as essential as knowing the origin of your hemp, which carrier oil was used and how much CBD you have in your bottle. These factors will determine the quality and safety of the product that you are purchasing.
Which method is the best? Let's dig in.
Methods for CBD Extraction
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extraction
- Solvent Extraction
- Steam Distillation
- Olive oil extraction
1. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extraction
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extraction is a method of extracting CBD oil from hemp using pressurized CO2. This allows you to remove as many cannabinoids as possible from the hemp plant.
It is fascinating to learn the science behind CO2. It behaves as a gas at standard pressure and temperature. It can be made into a liquid by introducing it at temperatures below -69° Fahrenheit and increasing the pressure by over 75 pounds per square inch.
Manufacturers use fancy equipment to freeze and then compress the CO2 gas into a cold liquid. The CO2 gas acts as a "green solvent" when liquefied. It can be separated like a solvent without the chemical hazards associated with solvents.
Another advantage of CO2 extraction is its ability to produce CBD oil in precise amounts. To achieve specific concentrations, manufacturers adjust the pressure and solvent ratios.
How about supercritical CO2 extraction? You may have noticed this anywhere. There are three types of CO2 CBD extraction: supercritical, supercritical and subcritical.
2. Solvent Extraction
We've already discussed the dangers of solvents. Now we'll talk about solvent extraction.
Yes. It is used to make CBD oil. Therefore, we should cover it.
To remove cannabinoids from hemp, solvent extraction is used. This involves adding butane, alcohol, and low-grade alcohol to the hemp. The compound is heated until it becomes oily once it has enough cannabinoids.
The problem is that if you add a solvent to your oil mixture, you risk getting an oil with chemical residues. This can lead to the formation of chlorophyll contaminants and even the destruction of beneficial plant waxes.
There are better extraction methods than this, as you might have guessed. This doesn't produce the safest, cleanest product.
3. Steam Distillation
Another method for CBD extraction is steam distillation. This is the oldest method of CBD extraction.
Steam distillation causes CBD oil to separate from the hemp using steam. It is simple, and all you need is simple chemical glassware.
There are some downsides to steam distillation. The steam distillation of hemp requires large quantities, far more than is necessary for solvent extraction or CO2. It is also difficult to determine exact concentrations. These are two reasons manufacturers avoid this process, despite the simplicity.
There is no risk of residual solvents like with the solvent method. However, steam could damage CBD and alter its chemical properties. This is not recommended.
4. Olive oil extraction
This method is popular for those who want to extract CBD at their home. This can be done in your kitchen using a few kitchen tools and doesn't require solvents. Add the plant material to olive oils and heat for several hours. The oil becomes CBD-infused olive oil.
This is not an option for large manufacturers. This is labour-intensive, takes much longer, and yields less CBD. It's also perishable, so it only lasts for a short time.
CBD extraction: Which is the best method?
Having read these 4 methods, you will probably know which CBD extraction method is our favourite. This is not just our preference; many companies also prefer this method due to the higher quality and cleaner product.
This is CO2 extraction. To be very clear, Supercritical CO2 extraction is required. This gives you the best results. Isn't that what all of us want? That's what I believe!
As I said above, knowing the method of CBD extraction is as essential as knowing the origins of the hemp, the carrier oil used and the amount of CBD in your product. Every CBD manufacturer should be able to provide the method of CBD extract. Those who can't do so are likely not to be trustworthy.
