How to Extract CBD Oil?

There are many ways to extract CBD oil. Depending on the purpose, one can make it at home using vegetable oil or extract it using supercritical carbon dioxide.  

 However, as a result of changing solvents and equipment, the potency and purity of the final product vary from method to method. 

Winterization 

To produce a high-quality CBD oil, the cannabidiol content of the product has to be pure and concentrated. With traditional methods of extraction, such purity is difficult to achieve. 

 Cannabis naturally contains several substances alongside cannabidiol. These include wax, lipids, and chlorophyll, and they can lower the CBD content in the oil. 

 Winterization is a process in CBD oil extraction that helps get rid of this unwanted surplus. In this process, the crude cannabis oil is dissolved in a solvent at sub-zero temperatures.  

 When this temperature is maintained for a while, the unwanted compounds coagulate onto the surface, from where they can be filtered out.  

Short-Path Distillation 

Though the short-path distillation can be conducted at home, it is still complicated. This extraction process requires a basic knowledge of lab apparatus as it involves using many flasks, beakers, and burners. 

This method produces purer and more concentrated CBD extracts than vegetable oil extraction. But at the same time, it also requires more careful consideration of temperature and pressure. 

 The cannabis extract is heated in a flask until they transform into vapor in this method. This steam is then carried a short distance by a condensing coil, cooling it on the way. As a result, the highly concentrated CBD oil is extracted as a condensed liquid. 

Supercritical CO2 Extraction 

 There is a reason why supercritical CO2 extraction is the preferred method for medical-use extraction projects. Aside from being the safest way to extract CBD from cannabis, it is also the most precise. 

 This method treats the extract in supercritical CO2, meaning carbon dioxide in liquid and gaseous forms. It produces accurate, pure results with zero chance of contaminants making it into the final product. 

 Supercritical CO2 extraction also yields the highest percentage of CBD despite producing the least waste. The extensive equipment also allows users to target the extraction of specific compounds just by adjusting the heat and pressure settings. 

Ethanol Extraction 

Ethanol extraction is an alcohol-based method of extracting cannabidiol oil from cannabis. Ethanol is preferred among other spirits because it can mix with water to dissolve the water-soluble molecules of the cannabis extract.  

 In this process, the plant matter is soaked in ethanol and left in the liquid for some time. This mixture is later filtered to get rid of the unwanted dirt. 

 The remaining substance is a combination of ethanol and cannabis extracts. This mixture is then carefully heated to remove the alcohol, leaving the desired CBD and other compounds. 

The ethanol extraction method leaves behind no toxins. However, careful attention is necessary during the heating process because ethanol is a highly flammable substance. 

Dry Ice Extraction 

This method requires access to a sufficient amount of dry ice. The first step in this process includes setting up the cannabis stock.  

 The chopped hemp is then flash-frozen using dry ice and pressed to get the extract. This substance is then introduced into a carrier oil or other medium to make CBD products. 

 Since it is a process requiring minimal solvents, the end product is a pure one. However, if conducted without correct supervision, this extraction method can result in accidents.  

 Proper ventilation is a must when handling dry ice. In non-ventilated spaces, it can cause suffocation as dry ice turns to carbon dioxide on melting. Other dangers of dry ice include burns, frostbite, and even explosions. 

Vegetable Oil Extraction

This method of CBD extraction is suited for small-scale use, making it perfect for doing on your own. 

 After preparation, the cannabis is introduced to a pre-heated oven or cooker. Here the ground/shredded hemp undergoes the process of decarboxylation. After a sufficient period of heating, the cannabis reaches the correct temperature, resulting in the activation of the cannabinoids. 

This substance is then reheated in the vegetable oil into CBD oil. 

 Despite being easy to prepare, the final product has a short shelf life. Moreover, the oil is also poor in purity and CBD content, making it less potent. 

What is the Best Way to Extract CBD? 

The Supercritical CO2 method is the best way to extract CBD oil from cannabis plants. This process is the safest, but it also produces the most product and the least waste.  

The supercritical method of extraction also lets users target specific compounds to extract from the cannabis mixture.  

By adjusting the heat, pressure, and time, one can get either a concentrated dose of CBD or one with more benefits but less potency. For this reason, Supercritical CO2 extraction is also used for medical purposes. However, the downside is the expense of installation and equipment.  

See also: Articles, CBD, Industry, Oils

Enny Soyinka

PharmacologistExpertise : Research on cannabinoids, Brand Reviewer

Enny Soyinka stands at the forefront of hemp research, blending a deep-rooted passion for holistic health with a robust scientific background. As an accomplished pharmacologist, Enny's extensive research into hemp has made them a pivotal figure in demystifying its health benefits. Their expertise shines a light on the nuanced relationship between cannabinoids and wellness, offering well-informed insights in the dynamic world of cannabinoids.