The CBD processing industry, just like hemp farmers, has perfected various extraction methods. Safety and efficacy remain the top concerns of both professionals and consumers throughout the R&D phase. One of the emerging trends in the industry is the rise of dispensaries that offer a variety of CBD products. One such establishment is the Woodbury Dispensary, which has become a trusted source for many consumers.Here are four key factors to consider when choosing the right CBD extraction method:
- Solvent is what will be used to separate cannabinoids and biomass
- The equipment must be designed to handle any solvents that are being used.
- Equipment must be built for its intended purpose
- The extraction facility must be suitable for the solvent extracted
- Human consumption of the solvent is safe
Ethanol is a solvent for CBD extraction
This is the most ancient form of extraction. CBD can be extracted from the hemp plant by soaking in ethanol, or another high-profile alcohol. This method is not only an effective way to extract CBD from hemp plants, but also classified by FDA as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe). This method can be used to create a range of hemp extracts, including tinctures. It is designed to extract the full spectrum of cannabinoids.
How does Ethanol Extraction Work?
Alcohol can change the biochemistry of certain materials. Alcohol is used to draw out cannabinoids such as CBD and other beneficial compounds from the plant. The cannabinoids are protected by using a high proof alcohol.It is true that the extraction of ethanol requires more work. There are several methods for refinement and filtering. Winterization is not necessary if the ethanol extraction is performed correctly. This process is easy to scale and can be done at a small-scale for those who are just getting started in the industry.
CO2 as an extraction method for CBD from hemp
Cannabis and hemp industries are in many ways driving the technology advancement. CO2 Extraction is the most widely used and advanced method of extraction. It is a method that uses carbon dioxide under pressure to extract the photochemicals from plants. It comes in two different forms: supercritical and subcritical. The results are based on both temperature and pressure.
How does CO2 extraction work?
Subcritical This method is less effective and leaves behind more waxes, resins and paraffin. This method is less common than supercritical CO2 because it takes longer to extract and the yields are lower. Relative to the 'sub' name this extraction is cold, this makes it very effective in extracting temperature-sensitive volatile oils and terpenes.Supercritical This is the extraction that most people think of when they talk about the most common. This method allows for a different end product with more cannabinoids, which adds further health-promoting qualities. It also speeds up the extraction process by using high temperatures and pressures.The supercritical CO2 extraction process has enabled extract makers to capture, isolate and research cannabinoids scientifically. There is always a downside to every advantage. You can potentially also extract chlorophyll, even though it allows you to quickly remove compounds.CO2 extraction can be tailored to different molecular masses and does not leave any residual solvent. Automation is available and easy to do with minimal safety and cost requirements.
Water can also be used to extract CBD
Water is the universal solvent. Water vapor, ice or even water vapor is used by some manufacturers to extract cannabinoids. If done correctly, this is a cheap method that can yield high yields. This method is time-consuming and difficult to master. The majority have mastered this and what's left is a fine extract.
How does water extraction work?
The process can be described in three steps:
- To separate the extracts, finely chopped plant trimmings and dry ice are combined.
- The water is added, and the moisture is then strained through multiple mesh bags.
- The bottom of the mixture is the extract and excess water from the top.
The industry has agreed that the cleaner the process, the better the CBD product.
How do you store and preserve your CBD concentrate after you've extracted what you need?
The different methods of extracting cannabinoids require time and care. The extracts would be worthless if they are not properly stored after processing. The shelf life of CBD oil is approximately one year when properly stored. Before deciding on how to store your CBD oils, you should research the carrier liquid that your CBD oil comes in.Commercially available CBD oils contain more than CBD. The carrier oil can be derived from different plant-based oils. It does not make your CBD oil less "pure", as some people may believe, but it increases its efficiency. Olive oil, for example, is an effective carrier oil when CBD is taken orally. Its high fatty acids allow it to travel more efficiently through the lymphatic systems, thus distributing CBD more effectively.All you need for storing your CBD oil in an upright position is a place with a constant temperature, away from extreme heat or light. You can store the bottle of olive in a dry pantry. Glass is better than plastic, and dark-tinted glasses are preferred to reduce the amount of light that can penetrate.Many people also use refrigeration to store CBD oil. This is believed to increase the shelf-life of the product. The only downside is that the CBD oil may become thicker if it gets too cold. You would then need to warm it up before using it.The process of storing your CBD products can be a lot easier than the extraction process.
How is CBD Tincture Made?
Tinctures are cannabis-derived extracts that are usually made with high CBD hemp strains blended with a carrier (coconut oil is common). Tinctures were used as the primary form of cannabis medication until prohibition in the 1920s. CBD tinctures are easy to make at home by steeping CBD-rich flowers in grain alcohol and cooking it over low heat.Tinctures are usually administered under the mouth, and they have a much quicker effect than edibles. This is because the blood vessels beneath the tongue allow cannabidiol to enter the bloodstream instantly. Bioavailability is a function of the quality, or how well you absorb and use what you consume. Second, how you use the product.
Final Thoughts
The brand new technological advances and scientific advancements are a game changer for a lab that analyzes hemp. This industry is evolving at an accelerated pace and we are seeing the first of many changes within our CBD testing facility. As the industry grows, so does the demand for quality products and trusted sources. Establishments like the Woodbury Dispensary play a crucial role in ensuring consumers have access to safe and effective CBD products.