How to Extract CBD Oil from Hemp

Updated on March 23, 2021

Have you ever wondered how CBD oil is extracted? The extraction is a technical process involving various solvents. There are different methods, and each has its benefits and drawbacks, which we will discuss in this article. 

Having foreknowledge of how to extract CBD oil from hemp will make you understand how premium cannabidiol products are manufactured. Without the extraction process, the CBD industry may not attain its present status. Think of a world without the health benefits of these cannabidiol oils, gummies, and capsules. We wouldn’t want to imagine that world.

Now, let us discuss in detail the various extraction methods of the cannabidiol oil as well as their pros and cons. 

Techniques for Extracting CBD Oil from Hemp

The following are techniques used in extracting cannabidiol oil from hemp:

1. Carbon dioxide (CO2

CO2 is regarded as the most effective method in cannabidiol extraction. This is why it is the most popular among others. This extraction method yields a pure, top-quality concentration of the CBD. More importantly, it is very safe as it doesn’t use toxic solvents. 

The solvent used in this technique is pressurized CO2. Under different temperatures, this solvent will extract active components from the hemp plant. Even though this technique is highly effective and safe, it is made possible using expensive machines. These machines can cost more than $100,000. 

CO2 extraction involves two forms: subcritical and supercritical. The subcritical process involves low pressure and heat. This process takes a long time, yet it yields less cannabinoids. 

On the other hand, supercritical requires high pressure and varying temperatures, and it yields high quantities of CBD. You can click on https://hempgazette.com/cannabidiol-cbd/co2-extraction-cannabis/ to read more about CO2 extraction.

Pros:

  • It is the safest method available.
  • It is a very effective method.
  • It produces pure quality extracts.

Cons:

  • It requires technical know-how.
  • It is very costly.

2. Using Organic Solvents

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Organic solvents like alcohol and butane are used in this extraction. It is the least costly process of extracting CBD. Although this method is cheap, some of the solvents used are unsafe. Due to this toxicity, it is important to remove the solvents before packaging the CBD. 

The process involves soaking the hemp in the solvent. The solvent then extracts all active compounds from the plant. The liquid is subjected to heat till the solvent evaporates and the extracts are suspended into the carrier oil.

Note: Apart from being toxic, these solvents are highly flammable. So, you must be careful when removing the solvent vapors from the extract to avert any damage or injury.

Pros:

  • It is more available than other methods.
  • It is a cheaper process.

Cons:

  • It might be toxic and affect product quality.
  • It is quite dangerous, as it is flammable.

3. Cooking Oil Methods 

CBD can be extracted using cooking oils. The oils serve as solvents during the procedure. You can do this method at home. Some of the oils that can be used include:

  • Coconut oil
  • Sunflower oil
  • Butter
  • MCT
  • Argan lard

You can choose any of these oils based on their availability or what you wish to use them for. For example, you can use coconut oil or butter for extracts used for making edibles. If you wish to make creams, go for argan lard.

The process is quite easy; just heat an already dried hemp for close to 1 hour. This procedure is called decarboxylation. After this, add the de-carboxylate hemp into the carrier oil of your choice in a pan. Heat this mixture slowly under mid-heat for 2 hours. You can click here to learn how to make your own CBD oil at home.

Pros:

  • It is very easy.
  • It is cheap.
  • It is relatively safe.

Cons:

  • The extract produced has low efficiency.
  • It has a short shelf-life.

Conclusion

Knowing the methods of extracting CBD can help you know how to make it yourself at home. It also helps you discern the differences between the various quality of CBD extracts and how extraction methods can affect this. 

For commercial cannabidiol products, consider those produced with the CO2 method. But if you are producing it for your personal use, you can try the oil solvent method. It is a safe and cheaper alternative.

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