The Different CBD Extraction Methods, Explained
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Table of Contents
The Different CBD Extraction Methods, Explained
Table of Contents
Summary
What Is CBD?
What Kind of CBD Products Are There?
The Different Types of CBD
CBD Extraction Methods
Always Pure Organics’ Approach
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
References
Summary
As technology progresses, so does the science surrounding CBD extraction. The CBD market has exploded onto the wellness scene during recent years, allowing CBD businesses to establish themselves. The laws on CBD manufacturing and use will differ worldwide. In fact, some countries don’t even have CBD-specific legislation in place. However, in Europe, certain regulations must be followed. This includes any trace amounts of THC being of the legal amount, not marketing your products as medicine, identifying the source of your CBD and more. Consumers value transparency from CBD brands, including disclosing how the CBD was extracted. This article outlines what CBD is, briefly touching on its purported benefits, before shining a spotlight on the main methods of CBD extraction.
What Is CBD?
CBD is the abbreviation for Cannabidiol, one of the many compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant, also referred to as hemp. CBD is one of the main cannabinoids in the plant and one of the most researched. It has risen in popularity in recent years for its purported health benefits. For example, it has demonstrated its potential to promote calm feelings, soothe tired muscles, and more.
CBD is not to be confused with its cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive cannabinoid in the plant. It can cause intoxication; hence the legal guidelines in the EU and UK only allow trace amounts in the final product. In contrast, CBD isn’t linked to feelings of intoxication or any severe adverse reactions
What Kind of CBD Products Are There?
Due to the popularity of CBD, the number of different types of products has risen. There is a great deal of creativity and innovation from CBD businesses. You can purchase CBD oils, capsules, creams, bath bombs, cosmetics, mocktails and more.
All CBD products should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This analyses the ingredients in each CBD product, ensuring its safety and quality. CBD ingestibles are subject to Novel Food regulation, so it’s important to ensure that your business is compliant.
The Different Types of CBD
There are three different spectrums of CBD, and it’s important to understand the differences. While the terms have been used interchangeably over the years, CBD comes in three distinct forms:
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the naturally occurring compounds from the hemp plant. For example, cannabinoids, of which the hemp plant contains over 100. This formulation includes THC, subject to the legal limit, of course.
Terpenes are also found in full-spectrum CBD. The hemp plant has over 150 terpenes responsible for its fragrance and potential therapeutic benefits. For instance, linalool may help to produce calming effects.
Additionally, this formulation contains flavonoids, which may play a role in the reported “entourage effect”. The entourage effect is the theory that all the compounds in hemp work synergistically to produce a more potent and beneficial outcome.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum CBD. It also contains the naturally occurring compounds, with the exclusion of THC. This means that the entourage effect may be linked to broad-spectrum products; however, it may not be as potentially effective as full-spectrum.
CBD Isolate
As the name suggests, CBD isolate is an isolated form of CBD. It is also commonly referred to as pure CBD. It may seem obvious, but it’s important to note that the cannabis plant material contains all the plant’s compounds. The manufacturer has to separate the unwanted compounds to create an isolate, leaving pure CBD.
This can include processes like winterisation, in which the extract is soaked in alcohol and frozen to remove any of the other compounds. This leaves CBD isolate in a crystal or powder form as high as 99.9% pure CBD. As long as the manufacturer is knowledgeable in this process, the final product should possess no distinct flavour or odour.
What is the difference between CBD isolate and CBD distillate, you ask? As we stated, isolate is a pure form of CBD. On the other hand, CBD distillate can contain 40-90% CBD (depending on specific client requests), alongside other compounds and cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC.
CBD Extraction Methods
Now let’s examine the different methods of CBD extraction, which are an important consideration for any CBD business.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extraction
One of the most common CBD extraction methods is carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction. This method has long been utilised in other industries for everything from essential oil production to coffee decaffeination. It is also commonly referred to as ‘supercritical extraction’.
CO2 extraction is one of the most scientifically advanced extraction methods. Typically, three chambers are used to pull the CBD and other desired compounds from the harvested hemp. The CO2 is converted into a liquid state in the first chamber through the pressure increase and temperature decrease.
The pressure and temperature are then slowly increased to allow the liquid CO2 to reach the supercritical stage. This means that the CO2 is between a liquid and gas state, retaining some properties of each. It is concentrated, much like a liquid, but it can still expand like a gas. It can then be transferred into the second chamber, where the hemp plant material is stored. The CO2 moves through the hemp and separates the oil from the plant material. The CO2 and the oil are then ready to move to the final chamber, where they separate, and any residual CO2 evaporates.
The final product is a concentrated extract of full-spectrum CBD oil. CO2 extraction is a popular method for many reasons. For instance, it is regarded as environmentally friendly, as the CO2 can be converted multiple times and reused, eliminating emissions. Furthermore, the precise separation protects fragile terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids. CO2 extraction remains one of the most expensive due to the advanced equipment and skill level needed.
Steam Distillation
Steam distillation has been used for centuries, mainly for alcohol distillation. Now, as science advances, it is utilised for extracting CBD. It is a relatively simple process, with steam being used to extract the compounds from the hemp plant material. The vapour, which contains the desired compounds, is cooled and condensed, separating the oil and water.
This tried and tested extraction method is popular with many CBD manufacturers. Furthermore, steam distillation is relatively inexpensive, in addition to being solvent-free. Some of the disadvantages of this extraction method include potential damage to delicate compounds when they are exposed to heat and the large quantities of raw materials required.
Extraction by Solvent
Extraction by solvent refers to using a solvent to draw out the hemp compounds. Some common solvent choices include a hydrocarbon, such as butane or propane, or a food grade ethanol. Once the solvent has been selected, it will either be washed or soaked over the hemp plant material to draw out the beneficial compounds.
If a hydrocarbon solvent is selected, then the mixture will contain terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids, which are refined to remove the majority of the solvent. The refinement process will depend on the desired end product. It then undergoes a final refinement process to remove any remaining solvents, leaving CBD oil.
If ethanol is the solvent of choice, the liquid will be distilled to separate the oil from the food grade ethanol.
Overall, the solvent extraction method is efficient and largely inexpensive as it does not require specialised equipment. What’s more, hydrocarbon extraction is known for preserving the aroma and flavour of the plant. However, the flammable nature of solvents can be dangerous if handled improperly, and if not properly executed, some of the remaining solvent could remain in the final product.
Cold Pressure Extraction
Cold pressure extraction has long been a method of producing essential oils. However, it’s now used by some CBD manufacturers and is regarded as one of the most natural.
The plant material is pressed or crushed to extract the compounds. This is achieved by using low temperatures and only minimal heat generated from the machinery. The low temperatures give the oil a higher chance of being richer in delicate compounds and nutrients. The natural flavour and aroma are preserved due to the high concentration of terpenes and flavonoids. The final product can be on the smaller side in terms of quantity; therefore, the method is not widely used on a large scale.
Always Pure Organics’ Approach
Here at Always Pure Organics, we don’t follow the market trend; we set it, making us one of the leading CBD manufacturers in Europe. We stay on top of everything CBD-related, from legislation and regulations to product innovation.
We monitor the market, and while there’s still a demand for isolate products, there appears to be greater attention on broad and full-spectrum products. Hence our standardised broad spectrum distilled cannabis extracts, intended for consumer use and industrial purposes. Of course, we pride ourselves on manufacturing quality products tailored to your precise needs, so don’t hesitate to get in touch to find out more.
Final Thoughts
There are various methods of extraction for CBD manufacturers to consider. All methods require specialist knowledge and equipment to ensure a quality product. It can be a good idea to engage a cannabinoid supplier, like Always Pure Organics, to discuss your products and kick-start your CBD business with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant and is often used in various products. It’s non-addictive and has minimal risk of adverse reactions, unlike THC. Only trace amounts of THC can be in the final product. CBD businesses are becoming more innovative with their products, and CBD can be purchased in the form of oils, gummies, skincare and more.
How is CBD oil made?
CBD oil is one of the most popular ways to consume the cannabinoid. Once the plant material is extracted from hemp, it is diluted with a natural carrier oil. Some examples of carrier oils include hemp seed oil, coconut oil and olive oil. Carrier oils influence a wide range of factors, including absorption and bioavailability.
What are the different types of CBD?
When it comes to marketing your CBD products, one key thing for CBD businesses to consider is the spectrum or type of CBD. Consumers want to know what type of CBD they are consuming to make an informed purchase. Full-spectrum CBD is a product that contains the naturally occurring compounds from hemp, including trace amounts of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD is the same, with the exception of THC. Both of these spectrums may produce the entourage effect. Finally, CBD isolate is a pure form of CBD, with up to 99.9% CBD purity.
What is a Novel Food?
A Novel Food is a food that was not widely consumed before 15 May 1997. CBD is classed as a Novel Food. Strict regulations surround these novel foods to ensure their safety. CBD businesses with products already on the market needed to submit Novel Food Applications by 31 March 2021. You can still submit a new application; however, your products will not be allowed on the market until you have authorisation. Always Pure Organics takes compliance seriously, which means that you can afford to focus on running your CBD business instead of worrying about your product.
Are CBD products regulated in the UK?
For any CBD products sold in the UK, the business must comply with the regulations and legislation. This includes products authorised as Novel Food. Also, the products should be tested by a third-party laboratory and provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This means that the consumer can view the ingredients and the potency of any cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.
Is CBD extraction legal?
The extraction of CBD from the cannabis plant is legal in the UK, and most of Europe, provided that the legislation and regulations are followed. For example, only licensed manufactures can extract CBD from hemp, and the industrial hemp strain needs to be approved by the government in the UK.
What are the kinds of extraction processes for CBD?
CBD manufacturers have various extraction methods to choose from. They need to consider the costs, including labour and what equipment they will require, in addition to what type of CBD product they are creating. For example, a CBD isolate will require further refinement. The main CBD extraction methods are CO2 extraction, steam distillation, solvent extraction and cold pressure extraction.
What happens to THC during CBD extraction?
When CBD is extracted from hemp, other beneficial compounds are also extracted. This includes other cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes. This also means that THC is extracted. The extract must be refined and possibly winterised to ensure that the THC is at the legal level. This is especially important if the final product is a CBD isolate, as there can be no other compounds present. The cannabis plant can also be specifically bred to possess low THC levels.
What types of solvents are there for CBD extraction?
CBD extraction by solvent is one of the main methods of extraction. A solvent will be used to draw out the beneficial hemp compounds. Popular choices include ethanol, hexane and butane. Food grade ethanol can also be used. CBD manufacturers will research their different options before coming to a decision.
What kind of licence do you need for CBD extraction?
CBD can be imported into the UK with no licence. However, the CBD needs to derive from a hemp strain approved by the EU. The CBD can then not be sold as a medicinal product, all the ingredients need to be clearly labelled, and there can be no presence of any illegal substances in the final product. In the UK, there can only be trace amounts of THC and this THC cannot be separated from the product. Growing hemp in the UK requires a licence issued by the government, and the end-use of the plant, like extracting CBD, must be defined.
References
Full Spectrum CBD Oil | Always Pure Organics
Exploring the changing landscape of cannabis extracts (healtheuropa.eu)
Table of Contents
The Different CBD Extraction Methods, Explained
Table of Contents
Summary
What Is CBD?
What Kind of CBD Products Are There?
The Different Types of CBD
CBD Extraction Methods
Always Pure Organics’ Approach
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
References
Summary
As technology progresses, so does the science surrounding CBD extraction. The CBD market has exploded onto the wellness scene during recent years, allowing CBD businesses to establish themselves. The laws on CBD manufacturing and use will differ worldwide. In fact, some countries don’t even have CBD-specific legislation in place. However, in Europe, certain regulations must be followed. This includes any trace amounts of THC being of the legal amount, not marketing your products as medicine, identifying the source of your CBD and more. Consumers value transparency from CBD brands, including disclosing how the CBD was extracted. This article outlines what CBD is, briefly touching on its purported benefits, before shining a spotlight on the main methods of CBD extraction.
What Is CBD?
CBD is the abbreviation for Cannabidiol, one of the many compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant, also referred to as hemp. CBD is one of the main cannabinoids in the plant and one of the most researched. It has risen in popularity in recent years for its purported health benefits. For example, it has demonstrated its potential to promote calm feelings, soothe tired muscles, and more.
CBD is not to be confused with its cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive cannabinoid in the plant. It can cause intoxication; hence the legal guidelines in the EU and UK only allow trace amounts in the final product. In contrast, CBD isn’t linked to feelings of intoxication or any severe adverse reactions
What Kind of CBD Products Are There?
Due to the popularity of CBD, the number of different types of products has risen. There is a great deal of creativity and innovation from CBD businesses. You can purchase CBD oils, capsules, creams, bath bombs, cosmetics, mocktails and more.
All CBD products should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This analyses the ingredients in each CBD product, ensuring its safety and quality. CBD ingestibles are subject to Novel Food regulation, so it’s important to ensure that your business is compliant.
The Different Types of CBD
There are three different spectrums of CBD, and it’s important to understand the differences. While the terms have been used interchangeably over the years, CBD comes in three distinct forms:
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the naturally occurring compounds from the hemp plant. For example, cannabinoids, of which the hemp plant contains over 100. This formulation includes THC, subject to the legal limit, of course.
Terpenes are also found in full-spectrum CBD. The hemp plant has over 150 terpenes responsible for its fragrance and potential therapeutic benefits. For instance, linalool may help to produce calming effects.
Additionally, this formulation contains flavonoids, which may play a role in the reported “entourage effect”. The entourage effect is the theory that all the compounds in hemp work synergistically to produce a more potent and beneficial outcome.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum CBD. It also contains the naturally occurring compounds, with the exclusion of THC. This means that the entourage effect may be linked to broad-spectrum products; however, it may not be as potentially effective as full-spectrum.
CBD Isolate
As the name suggests, CBD isolate is an isolated form of CBD. It is also commonly referred to as pure CBD. It may seem obvious, but it’s important to note that the cannabis plant material contains all the plant’s compounds. The manufacturer has to separate the unwanted compounds to create an isolate, leaving pure CBD.
This can include processes like winterisation, in which the extract is soaked in alcohol and frozen to remove any of the other compounds. This leaves CBD isolate in a crystal or powder form as high as 99.9% pure CBD. As long as the manufacturer is knowledgeable in this process, the final product should possess no distinct flavour or odour.
What is the difference between CBD isolate and CBD distillate, you ask? As we stated, isolate is a pure form of CBD. On the other hand, CBD distillate can contain 40-90% CBD (depending on specific client requests), alongside other compounds and cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC.
CBD Extraction Methods
Now let’s examine the different methods of CBD extraction, which are an important consideration for any CBD business.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extraction
One of the most common CBD extraction methods is carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction. This method has long been utilised in other industries for everything from essential oil production to coffee decaffeination. It is also commonly referred to as ‘supercritical extraction’.
CO2 extraction is one of the most scientifically advanced extraction methods. Typically, three chambers are used to pull the CBD and other desired compounds from the harvested hemp. The CO2 is converted into a liquid state in the first chamber through the pressure increase and temperature decrease.
The pressure and temperature are then slowly increased to allow the liquid CO2 to reach the supercritical stage. This means that the CO2 is between a liquid and gas state, retaining some properties of each. It is concentrated, much like a liquid, but it can still expand like a gas. It can then be transferred into the second chamber, where the hemp plant material is stored. The CO2 moves through the hemp and separates the oil from the plant material. The CO2 and the oil are then ready to move to the final chamber, where they separate, and any residual CO2 evaporates.
The final product is a concentrated extract of full-spectrum CBD oil. CO2 extraction is a popular method for many reasons. For instance, it is regarded as environmentally friendly, as the CO2 can be converted multiple times and reused, eliminating emissions. Furthermore, the precise separation protects fragile terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids. CO2 extraction remains one of the most expensive due to the advanced equipment and skill level needed.
Steam Distillation
Steam distillation has been used for centuries, mainly for alcohol distillation. Now, as science advances, it is utilised for extracting CBD. It is a relatively simple process, with steam being used to extract the compounds from the hemp plant material. The vapour, which contains the desired compounds, is cooled and condensed, separating the oil and water.
This tried and tested extraction method is popular with many CBD manufacturers. Furthermore, steam distillation is relatively inexpensive, in addition to being solvent-free. Some of the disadvantages of this extraction method include potential damage to delicate compounds when they are exposed to heat and the large quantities of raw materials required.
Extraction by Solvent
Extraction by solvent refers to using a solvent to draw out the hemp compounds. Some common solvent choices include a hydrocarbon, such as butane or propane, or a food grade ethanol. Once the solvent has been selected, it will either be washed or soaked over the hemp plant material to draw out the beneficial compounds.
If a hydrocarbon solvent is selected, then the mixture will contain terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids, which are refined to remove the majority of the solvent. The refinement process will depend on the desired end product. It then undergoes a final refinement process to remove any remaining solvents, leaving CBD oil.
If ethanol is the solvent of choice, the liquid will be distilled to separate the oil from the food grade ethanol.
Overall, the solvent extraction method is efficient and largely inexpensive as it does not require specialised equipment. What’s more, hydrocarbon extraction is known for preserving the aroma and flavour of the plant. However, the flammable nature of solvents can be dangerous if handled improperly, and if not properly executed, some of the remaining solvent could remain in the final product.
Cold Pressure Extraction
Cold pressure extraction has long been a method of producing essential oils. However, it’s now used by some CBD manufacturers and is regarded as one of the most natural.
The plant material is pressed or crushed to extract the compounds. This is achieved by using low temperatures and only minimal heat generated from the machinery. The low temperatures give the oil a higher chance of being richer in delicate compounds and nutrients. The natural flavour and aroma are preserved due to the high concentration of terpenes and flavonoids. The final product can be on the smaller side in terms of quantity; therefore, the method is not widely used on a large scale.
Always Pure Organics’ Approach
Here at Always Pure Organics, we don’t follow the market trend; we set it, making us one of the leading CBD manufacturers in Europe. We stay on top of everything CBD-related, from legislation and regulations to product innovation.
We monitor the market, and while there’s still a demand for isolate products, there appears to be greater attention on broad and full-spectrum products. Hence our standardised broad spectrum distilled cannabis extracts, intended for consumer use and industrial purposes. Of course, we pride ourselves on manufacturing quality products tailored to your precise needs, so don’t hesitate to get in touch to find out more.
Final Thoughts
There are various methods of extraction for CBD manufacturers to consider. All methods require specialist knowledge and equipment to ensure a quality product. It can be a good idea to engage a cannabinoid supplier, like Always Pure Organics, to discuss your products and kick-start your CBD business with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant and is often used in various products. It’s non-addictive and has minimal risk of adverse reactions, unlike THC. Only trace amounts of THC can be in the final product. CBD businesses are becoming more innovative with their products, and CBD can be purchased in the form of oils, gummies, skincare and more.
How is CBD oil made?
CBD oil is one of the most popular ways to consume the cannabinoid. Once the plant material is extracted from hemp, it is diluted with a natural carrier oil. Some examples of carrier oils include hemp seed oil, coconut oil and olive oil. Carrier oils influence a wide range of factors, including absorption and bioavailability.
What are the different types of CBD?
When it comes to marketing your CBD products, one key thing for CBD businesses to consider is the spectrum or type of CBD. Consumers want to know what type of CBD they are consuming to make an informed purchase. Full-spectrum CBD is a product that contains the naturally occurring compounds from hemp, including trace amounts of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD is the same, with the exception of THC. Both of these spectrums may produce the entourage effect. Finally, CBD isolate is a pure form of CBD, with up to 99.9% CBD purity.
What is a Novel Food?
A Novel Food is a food that was not widely consumed before 15 May 1997. CBD is classed as a Novel Food. Strict regulations surround these novel foods to ensure their safety. CBD businesses with products already on the market needed to submit Novel Food Applications by 31 March 2021. You can still submit a new application; however, your products will not be allowed on the market until you have authorisation. Always Pure Organics takes compliance seriously, which means that you can afford to focus on running your CBD business instead of worrying about your product.
Are CBD products regulated in the UK?
For any CBD products sold in the UK, the business must comply with the regulations and legislation. This includes products authorised as Novel Food. Also, the products should be tested by a third-party laboratory and provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This means that the consumer can view the ingredients and the potency of any cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.
Is CBD extraction legal?
The extraction of CBD from the cannabis plant is legal in the UK, and most of Europe, provided that the legislation and regulations are followed. For example, only licensed manufactures can extract CBD from hemp, and the industrial hemp strain needs to be approved by the government in the UK.
What are the kinds of extraction processes for CBD?
CBD manufacturers have various extraction methods to choose from. They need to consider the costs, including labour and what equipment they will require, in addition to what type of CBD product they are creating. For example, a CBD isolate will require further refinement. The main CBD extraction methods are CO2 extraction, steam distillation, solvent extraction and cold pressure extraction.
What happens to THC during CBD extraction?
When CBD is extracted from hemp, other beneficial compounds are also extracted. This includes other cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes. This also means that THC is extracted. The extract must be refined and possibly winterised to ensure that the THC is at the legal level. This is especially important if the final product is a CBD isolate, as there can be no other compounds present. The cannabis plant can also be specifically bred to possess low THC levels.
What types of solvents are there for CBD extraction?
CBD extraction by solvent is one of the main methods of extraction. A solvent will be used to draw out the beneficial hemp compounds. Popular choices include ethanol, hexane and butane. Food grade ethanol can also be used. CBD manufacturers will research their different options before coming to a decision.
What kind of licence do you need for CBD extraction?
CBD can be imported into the UK with no licence. However, the CBD needs to derive from a hemp strain approved by the EU. The CBD can then not be sold as a medicinal product, all the ingredients need to be clearly labelled, and there can be no presence of any illegal substances in the final product. In the UK, there can only be trace amounts of THC and this THC cannot be separated from the product. Growing hemp in the UK requires a licence issued by the government, and the end-use of the plant, like extracting CBD, must be defined.
References
Full Spectrum CBD Oil | Always Pure Organics
Exploring the changing landscape of cannabis extracts (healtheuropa.eu)
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