Maximum Yield Cannabis USA October/November 2018 | Page 61

Cannabis Extraction Methods: Healthy, Simple Execution, and Risky
Over the years, different cannabis extraction methods have made their way into
the mainstream cannabis industry whether they’re healthy, easy to execute,
or risky. Let’s begin with one of the healthier cannabis extraction methods
otherwise known as supercritical CO 2 extraction.
Supercritical CO 2 Extraction:
Supercritical CO 2 extraction is reliant on turning carbon dioxide into a super-
critical liquid. This occurs by administering both temperature and pressure
until supercritical liquid form is attained. In general, CO 2 cannabis extraction
consists of removing cannabis compounds from the plant matrix with carbon
dioxide rather than alcohol.
Oftentimes, CO 2 is an extractor’s preferred medium since it squeezes past the
‘critical’ point at roughly 90°F. As a result of this, additional flavor and a clearer
high can be created from CO 2 derived concentrates. Additionally, CO 2 cannabis
extraction results in higher yields. It’s economical, safer than propane and
butane, and it lessens the need to get rid of waste.
This extraction method also guarantees no residual solvent will exist in the
final product. Fortunately, consumers can rest easy knowing CO 2 extractions can
kill mold or bacteria that exist in the plant material used. Overall, CO 2 extracts
are safer to consume even though the process of making them can be costly.
Alcohol & Ethanol Extraction:
One of the oldest extraction forms is alcohol extraction, which uses ethanol
or Everclear. Unfortunately, alcohol extraction is time-consuming and risky
because ethanol and Everclear are highly flammable. This method also presents
the challenge of removing chlorophyll from the extract, which is essential
because chlorophyll has a very bitter taste.
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