Extraction Method
Butane Hash Oil
BHO extraction involves using butane as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and other compounds from cannabis plant material, resulting in highly potent concentrates such as shatter, wax, budder, and oil for vape cartridges. It is relatively efficient and cost-effective compared to some other extraction methods. However, one of the significant drawbacks of BHO extraction is the potential safety hazards associated with handling butane, a highly flammable and volatile solvent.
Extraction Method
CO2
CO2 extraction uses carbon dioxide under high pressure and low temperatures to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plant material, producing a clean and potent concentrate known for its purity and consistency. CO2 extraction produces cannabis concentrates without the use of potentially harmful solvents, making it a safer option for both extractors and consumers. The CO2 extraction method can be used to make CO2 oil or extract, wax, shatter, crumble, diamonds, and sauce. However, it often requires expensive equipment and expertise, making it less accessible to smaller-scale operations.
Extraction Method
Rosin Pressing
Rosin pressing is a solventless extraction method that involves applying heat and pressure to cannabis plant material, causing the trichomes to burst and release their oils, resulting in a highly potent and flavorful concentrate known as rosin. Rosin pressing is prized for its simplicity, safety, and ability to retain the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes without the need for solvents.
Extraction Method
Distillation
Distillation is a process that involves heating cannabis oil to separate and isolate specific cannabinoids and terpenes, resulting in a highly purified and potent concentrate known as distillate, which can be used in vape cartridges, edibles, and topicals. Fractional distillation is a more advanced form of distillation that involves separating cannabinoids and terpenes into different fractions based on their boiling points, resulting in highly purified and potent concentrates used in products such as vape cartridges and edibles.
Extraction Method
Pressed Hash
Pressed hash, also known as hand-rolling hashish, is a traditional method of producing hash by manually separating trichomes from cannabis flowers. In this method, mature cannabis plants are gently rubbed or rolled between the palms to dislodge the resinous trichomes. The collected resin is then carefully hand-pressed into blocks or balls, resulting in hashish. This labor-intensive process has been practiced for centuries in regions where cannabis cultivation is prevalent, such as parts of the Middle East and Asia. Rolling hash produces a product with a distinct texture, flavor, and potency profile.
Extraction Method
Solventless Hash
Solventless hash extraction methods, such as ice water extraction and dry sift, involve using mechanical agitation to separate trichomes from the cannabis plant material without the use of solvents, resulting in a clean and natural concentrate. The process involves mixing the cannabis material with ice-cold water, causing the trichomes to become brittle and break off.
The mixture is then agitated, usually by hand or with mechanical tools. The trichomes sink to the bottom and can be collected using fine mesh screens. The collected material is then dried and pressed to form hash.
Extraction Method
Diamond Mining
Diamond mining is a technique used to produce THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) crystals, also known as diamonds. It typically involves a combination of hydrocarbon extraction and controlled crystallization. The resulting product contains high levels of THCA, which can be later converted to THC through decarboxylation. Diamond mining is favored for its ability to produce highly potent concentrates with a unique appearance and a high concentration of cannabinoids.
Extraction Method
Ethanol
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a potent cannabis extract known for its high THC content and potential therapeutic effects. It’s typically made using a solvent like ethanol. To create RSO, finely ground cannabis is soaked in ethanol to dissolve the cannabinoids and other compounds. The mixture is then filtered and the solvent is evaporated off, leaving behind a thick, dark oil. RSO is often consumed orally and is believed to have potential medical benefits, although further research is needed to fully understand its effects.