The Intricate World of Cannabis Extraction

At BeLeaf – Calverton, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality cannabis products to our customers. To achieve this, we rely on various extraction methods that separate the desirable compounds from the plant material. Let’s dive into the technical details of some popular extraction techniques used in the cannabis industry:

1. CO2 Extraction

Carbon dioxide extraction is a highly efficient and environmentally friendly method. Here’s how it works:

• CO2 is pressurized and heated to a supercritical state
• The supercritical CO2 acts as a solvent, dissolving cannabinoids and terpenes
• The solution is then depressurized, allowing the CO2 to evaporate
• The result is a pure, concentrated extract

2. Ethanol Extraction

This method utilizes food-grade ethanol as a solvent:

• Cannabis material is soaked in ethanol
• The solution is filtered to remove plant matter
• Ethanol is evaporated, leaving behind the extract
• Further refinement may be necessary to remove residual solvent

3. Hydrocarbon Extraction

Butane and propane are common hydrocarbons used in this process:

• The solvent is passed through cannabis material
• The resulting solution is collected and purged of residual solvent
• This method is known for preserving terpene profiles

4. Solventless Extraction

These methods don’t rely on chemical solvents:

• Rosin pressing: Uses heat and pressure to extract oils
• Ice water extraction: Utilizes cold temperatures and agitation
• Dry sifting: Mechanically separates trichomes from plant material

At BeLeaf – Calverton, we employ a combination of these techniques to ensure we offer a diverse range of high-quality cannabis products. Understanding these extraction methods helps us maintain our commitment to providing safe, effective, and innovative cannabis solutions to our valued customers.