What Is a Cannabis Extract?
In recent years, the cannabis industry has witnessed an astonishing surge in the popularity of cannabis extracts. These products have marked a transformative era in utilizing the versatile plant. But what is a cannabis extract exactly?
In this post, we will explore and discuss the different types of cannabis extracts. Join us on a journey of cannabis extracts that unveil a rich tapestry of innovation and elevated user consumption.
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What Is a Cannabis Extract?
Cannabis extracts are highly potent concentrated forms of the plant’s beneficial compounds. They are made using solvents to separate the cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant.
This contributes to the unique flavors and effects associated with different strains. These potent extracts might offer a broad range of benefits, often used for both medicinal and recreational purposes.
They come in various forms, including oils, tinctures, and wax, and are often used as edibles, topicals, and vaporizers. One of their allures is that they are suitable for both novice and experienced users.
Different types of cannabinoids and terpenes found in cannabis extracts
Cannabis extracts contain high concentrations of cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. These compounds are responsible for the product’s potential therapeutic effects. The potent substances also contain aromatic terpenes.
They contribute to the aroma and distinct flavor and may provide synergistic effects with the cannabinoids, enhancing the overall experience. The extracts can take various forms, each with distinctive applications offering different attributes.
Overview of different forms of cannabis extracts
As mentioned, cannabis extracts come in diverse forms: oils, concentrates, tinctures, and more. Oils are known for their versatility; concentrates offer potent doses, while tinctures provide a discreet and measured approach to consumption.
That said, a common question often arises - Is cannabis extract the same as concentrate? While the terms extract and concentrate are commonly used interchangeably, they differ.
Extracts refer to a specific type of concentrate made using a solvent, while concentrates are made using mechanical or physical processes. Hence, not all concentrates are extracts, but extracts are a form of concentrate.
Extraction methods
There are different methods for extracting cannabinoids and terpenes, each influencing the final product's quality, potency, and purity. The most common extraction techniques include solvent-based, solventless, and CO2 extraction.
Solvent-based extraction
This extraction method utilizes substances such as butane, ethanol, and propane to dissolve and separate the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. Once this is done, the solvent is removed, leaving behind a concentrated extract.
Solventless extraction
Solventless extraction involves the use of mechanical methods like ice water hash or dry sifts. This is done to separate the trichomes from the plant without external solvents.
This method results in a clean and solvent-free cannabis concentrate. It preserves more cannabinoids and terpenes than any other type of extraction.
CO2 extraction
This popular extraction method uses carbon dioxide in a supercritical state in order to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. It is known for its precision and ability to create high-quality extracts without leaving any residual solvents.
Factors influencing the choice of extraction method
There are several factors that influence the choice of an extraction method. They include the desired final product, available equipment, cost, and safety considerations. The solvent-based extraction method is typically more cost-effective.
However, they require careful post-processing to remove any residues. Conversely, the solventless method may appeal to those seeking a clean, chemical-free extraction process.
Chemical composition of cannabis extracts
Cannabis extracts boast a complex chemical composition comprising cannabinoids and terpenes. These cannabis compounds contribute to each extract's unique effects and characteristics.
The concentration of cannabinoids like CBD and THC varies across different extracts. Concentrates often have higher cannabinoid levels and provide potent effects. In comparison, oils and tinctures offer a more balanced profile.
Impact of extraction methods on potency and diversity of compounds
Your choice of extraction methods significantly influences the potency and diversity of compounds in the cannabis extracts. For instance, solvent-based extraction may result in a higher cannabinoid concentration.
Yet, it can impact the final product's purity and safety. While often considered cleaner, solventless methods might yield extracts with a more diverse and balanced cannabinoid and terpene profile.
They generally appeal to those seeking a holistic representation of the plant. In comparison, CO2 extraction allows for control over specific cannabinoids and terpenes, contributing to the consistency of the final product. It is often favored for its precision and ability to preserve a broad spectrum of compounds without additional purification steps.
Overall considerations
Aside from the extraction method, the starting material, processing conditions, and post-extraction treatments also impact the potency of the cannabinoids. Also, they influence the diversity of terpenes in the extracts.
Hence, striking a balance between maximizing cannabinoid concentrations and preserving the full spectrum of compounds. This is a crucial consideration for producers aiming to create high-quality and consistent cannabis extracts.
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Types of Cannabis Extracts
Cannabis extracts are typically distinguished for their texture, ranging from liquid oil to dry extracts. Here is an overview of the most common cannabis extracts available on the market today.
Oils and tinctures
Cannabis-infused oils are created by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes into a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. They allow for versatile uses ranging from cooking to topical use.
Compared to the oils, the tinctures involve extracting cannabis compounds in alcohol. They are favored for their rapid onset when used sublingually.
Concentrates
Shatter
Dabbing shatter is a cannabis extract made from dried or cured flowers. The shatter is made using the solvent hydrocarbon, and its typical potency ranges between 80-90% THC. The way to use this product is by vaporizing and dabbing.
Given its glass-like consistency, this extract with a golden color is likely to break when dropped on a hard surface. Some shatters are smooth to the touch, while others have adhesive properties.
Cannabis wax
Cannabis wax is a concentrate made from live or cured resin. It has a waxy consistency and sticky texture, achieved by heating and agitation. Compared to the transparent oils, the cannabis wax’s molecules crystallize due to agitation.
The wax has a lighter and more opaque color than concentrates such as shatter. It is made with butane, evaporating the excess for the user's safety. Its typical potency ranges between 60-80% THC and is used by vaporizing and dabbing.
Budder
This cannabis extract is made when the extracted cannabinoids begin to crystallize after being agitated during the extraction. It contains moderate terpenes and is flavorful, colorful, and aromatic.
It is characterized by the thick and creamy cake butter consistency achieved by “whipping”. The budder’s typical potency ranges from 80-90% and can be used by vaping, dabbing, or twaxing. Also, a yellow hue characterizes it.
Crumble
As the name suggests, this is a dry and crumbly cannabis extract. The creation process is similar to the shatter and budder. But there are differences: the pre-purged oils have more moisture, a different temperature, and a thicker consistency.
Regarding the potency range, it typically varies from 60-90+% THC. Moreover, it has a honeycomb-like texture, making it suitable for vaporizing and adding on the top of the flower before rolling it into a joint.
Full spectrum extracts
Full-spectrum cannabinoids extract various terpenes and cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. They provide a diverse array of cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, along with an assortment of terpenes.
As a result, they are believed to enhance therapeutic effects, offering potential benefits for pain relief, mood regulation, and more. The presence of multiple compounds in the extracts works together for a well-rounded experience.
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Conclusion
What is a cannabis extract? To sum up, it is a highly potent concentrated form. The extracts come in various forms, each offering a different cannabis experience. They also contain high concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes, offering a variety of potential benefits for the users.
