Extraction
Category: Extraction & Processing · Level: Intermediate
Cannabis extraction is the process of isolating cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from plant material using solvents or mechanical methods.
Cannabis extraction refers to a range of techniques used to separate and concentrate specific chemical compounds from the cannabis plant. Methods include: solvent-based extraction (using ethanol, butane, propane, or CO₂), solventless extraction (ice water/bubble hash, rosin pressing, dry sifting), and chromatographic separation for isolates. Each method produces different extract profiles and is suited to different product types. Industrial CO₂ extraction is widely used for producing pharmaceutical-grade isolates. Post-processing steps such as winterization, decarboxylation, and distillation are commonly applied to refine extracts.
Also known as
Cannabis concentrate production, Extract manufacturing
Usage
- Medical
- Industrial
- Recreational
Related terms
- Distillate — Cannabis distillate is a highly refined extract produced through molecular distillation, typically containing 90%+ cannabinoid purity.
- CO2 Extraction — CO2 extraction is a method of producing cannabis concentrates using supercritical or subcritical carbon dioxide as a solvent, resulting in clean, pharmaceutical-grade extracts.
- Full-Spectrum — Full-spectrum cannabis extract contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, including trace amounts of THC.
- Rosin — Rosin is a solventless cannabis concentrate produced by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower, hash, or kief.
- Winterization — Winterization is a post-extraction purification process using cold temperatures and ethanol to remove fats, waxes, and lipids from cannabis extracts.