Cannabis extraction is the process of transforming the raw material from the cannabis plant into a concentrated form. The concentrated form is then used to create various products, including oil. In this article, we will explore the process of turning cannabis flowers into oil.
Step 1: Decarboxylation The first step in the extraction process is decarboxylation. This is the process of heating the cannabis flower to activate the THC and CBD present in it. Decarboxylation transforms the THC-A and CBD-A into THC and CBD, respectively. The heating process can be done using a hot oven or by using a decarboxylator machine.
Step 2: Solvent Extraction Once the cannabis flower is decarboxylated, the next step is to extract the oil using a solvent. The most common solvents used in cannabis extraction are CO2 and ethanol. Both solvents are safe to use and have a low toxicity. CO2 extraction is a more expensive process, but it is also considered to be the safest and most efficient method of extraction.
Step 3: Purification Once the oil is extracted, the next step is to purify it. The purified oil is then used to make various products, such as edibles, tinctures, and topicals. The purification process involves removing any impurities from the oil, such as plant matter, solvent residues, and heavy metals. This can be done through winterization, which involves freezing the oil and removing the impurities through filtration.
Step 4: Final Product The final step is to package the purified oil into its final form. This can be done through the use of syringes, dropper bottles, or cartridges. The final product should have a consistent texture and a high concentration of THC or CBD, depending on the desired outcome.
In conclusion, the cannabis extraction process is an important step in transforming raw cannabis flowers into a concentrated form. The process involves decarboxylation, solvent extraction, purification, and packaging. By following these steps, you can ensure that the final product is safe and of high quality.