CBD is hailed for its many potential health benefits, which is why more and more people are trying it out. But have you ever wondered how CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant?

It’s an interesting process that is good to know if you use CBD products. This knowledge will help you understand the product and its effects better. Who knows, you might learn that the process isn’t so hard and may try your hand at doing it yourself.

Keep reading as we explore the world of CBD extraction.

What Is CBD?

As a quick refresher, CBD is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. CBD does not cause any psychoactive effects, unlike the more famous cannabinoid THC. This means CBD products will not make you “high.”

CBD is often used for its potential health benefits, which include reducing anxiety, pain relief, and inflammation. It is also studied for its potential to treat other conditions such as epilepsy and cancer.

While CBD is extracted from both marijuana and hemp plants, we are focusing on the extraction process of CBD from hemp plants since they contain very little THC (<0.3%).

The CBD Extraction Process

There are several ways to extract CBD from hemp plants. The most common methods are CO2 extraction, solvent extraction, and oil extraction.

CO2 Extraction

CO2 extraction is the most popular method of extracting CBD from hemp plants. It is also the most expensive method.

In CO2 extraction, carbon dioxide pressurizes until it turns into a liquid. This liquid is then passed through the hemp plant material, where it extracts the CBD. The CBD-rich extract is then collected and further processed to remove any traces of solvents or impurities.

Solvent Extraction

Solvent extraction is a cheaper method of extracting CBD from hemp plants. However, it is also more likely to leave behind trace amounts of solvent in the final product.

With solvent extraction, a solvent such as ethanol or hexane is used to extract CBD from the hemp plant material. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind the CBD-rich extract.

Oil Extraction

Oil extraction is the simplest and most cost-effective method of extracting CBD from hemp plants. It is also the least efficient method.

In oil extraction, the hemp plant material soaks in oil such as olive or coconut oil. The CBD is then extracted from the oil and collected.

The type of oil used will affect the taste, smell, and color of the final product.

Water Soluble CBD

One of the newest methods of extracting CBD is to create a water-soluble CBD. This process requires emulsifying CBD in water.

Water soluble CBD is more bioavailable than oil-based CBD, which means that it is more easily absorbed by the body. It is also more shelf-stable and easier to add to food and drinks.

The downside of water-soluble CBD is that it is more expensive to produce than other forms of CBD.

How Is CBD Extract Used?

CBD extract is used in a variety of ways. You can take it orally, apply it topically, or inhale it. CBD extract is also added to food and drinks or used to make CBD products such as tinctures, body lotions, and candles.

Now You Know How to Extract CBD

Now that you know all about the CBD extraction process, will you try to make your own? At the very least, you now know which forms of CBD are the purest. Make sure to ask your CBD provider about their extraction process so you can know you’re getting the best quality CBD products.

Share this blog with your community to let them know all about CBD.

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Nick Jones

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