METHODS AND USES OF CBD OIL
BY ADAM JACQUES
The process of running a CBD strain, with its myriad benefits, mirrors that of a THC strain, focusing on CBD extraction to derive pure oils and hydrocarbons, leaving plant matter and waxes behind. Unlike THC, which can form a hard, glass-like substance known as shatter, CBD oil, including CBD isolate, tends to be sappy at room temperature, presenting challenges in handling. A practical solution is freezing the oil, making it brittle and easier to manage. With the influx of hemp into the market, exploring efficient extraction methods is crucial for tapping into the benefits of CBD.
Choosing the right extraction method is vital, considering your end-use of CBD oil. While hydrocarbon extraction offers high-grade oil, its large-scale production cost and the niche interest in “dabbing” high-CBD oil make it less appealing for hemp growers. However, it remains a viable option for products incorporating oil, including those aiming to deliver the benefits of CBD. CO2 extraction stands out for CBD, despite the high initial investment, due to its ability to process large quantities efficiently, producing oil suitable for dabbing, pen tops, edibles, and topicals, thereby maximizing the therapeutic benefits of CBD.
Ethanol is another method that works well for large-scale hemp farmers interested in CBD extraction. Ethanol extractions, like other methods, retain cannabinoids and terpenes, crucial for preserving the benefits of CBD. Some processors combine ethanol with other extraction techniques to produce cleaner oil rich in CBD isolate and other beneficial compounds.
All methods are viable, depending on the processor’s goals. One consideration is the ability of some methods to create a CBD isolate, offering 99-percent pure CBD, highlighting the extraction’s efficiency. However, CBD isolate extraction removes all other cannabinoids and terpenes, focusing solely on the purity of CBD, which is significant for those prioritizing the benefits of CBD in their products.
Transforming hemp into oil through these methods yields a product with immense utility across various applications, especially for medical value. This oil facilitates easy testing and dosage accuracy, essential for product formulation and leveraging the benefits of CBD.
CO2 extraction is another effective method for CBD extraction, favored for its efficiency in processing large volumes. Although the initial investment in CO2 equipment is high, its capability to handle massive amounts efficiently makes it a preferred choice for producing high-quality CBD products.