How Are Cannabinoids Extracted to Make Tinctures?

If you're interested in the benefits of CBD and other cannabinoids, you may have come across tinctures. Tinctures are a popular way to consume cannabinoids, as they're easy to use, fast-acting, and can be added to food and drinks. But how are cannabinoids extracted to make tinctures? In this article, we'll explore the different extraction methods used to make tinctures and what makes each method unique.

Understanding Cannabinoids


Before we dive into the different extraction methods, let's first understand what cannabinoids are. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that are found in the cannabis plant. The two most well-known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive compound that gives the "high" associated with marijuana, while CBD is non-psychoactive and is believed to have several health benefits. In addition to THC and CBD, there are over 100 other cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, each with its own unique properties and potential benefits. Other well-known cannabinoids include cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC).

Extraction Methods for Tinctures


There are several methods used to extract cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, but the most common methods used for tinctures are ethanol extraction and CO2 extraction.

Ethanol Extraction


Ethanol extraction is a simple and affordable method of extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. This method involves soaking the plant in ethanol, which strips the cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds from the plant material. The ethanol is then evaporated, leaving behind a concentrated extract that can be used to make tinctures. One of the benefits of ethanol extraction is that it's relatively easy to do at home, which makes it a popular method for DIY tincture makers. However, it's important to note that ethanol extraction can be dangerous if proper safety precautions aren't taken.

CO2 Extraction


CO2 extraction is a more advanced and precise method of extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. This method involves using supercritical CO2, which is a fluid state of carbon dioxide that has properties of both a gas and a liquid. Supercritical CO2 is able to penetrate the plant material and dissolve the cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds, creating a highly concentrated extract. CO2 extraction is a more expensive method than ethanol extraction, but it produces a purer and more consistent extract. Additionally, CO2 extraction is considered to be safer and more environmentally friendly than ethanol extraction.

Final Thoughts


Tinctures are a popular way to consume cannabinoids, as they're fast-acting, easy to use, and can be added to food and drinks. Understanding how cannabinoids are extracted to make tinctures is important in order to make an informed decision when choosing a tincture. Ethanol extraction and CO2 extraction are the two most common methods used to make tinctures, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. If you're interested in using a tincture, it's important to do your research and choose a high-quality product that has been extracted using a safe and effective method.

Resources


  1. "Cannabis Alchemy: The Art of Modern Hashmaking" by D. Gold - This book provides a comprehensive guide to extracting cannabinoids, including information on tincture-making.
  2. "The Cannabis Pharmacy: The Practical Guide to Medical Marijuana" by M. Backes - This book includes a section on making tinctures, along with other methods of cannabis extraction.
  3. "Extraction Techniques for Medicinal Plant Analysis" by S. Stahl and D. S. Sarker - This book focuses on the extraction of medicinal compounds from various plants, including cannabis.
  4. "Ethanol Extraction of Cannabis Oil" by R. DeMorrow and M. Bell - This scientific article discusses the use of ethanol as a solvent for extracting cannabinoids from cannabis.
  5. "A Review of Cannabis Extraction Methods for Medical Use" by E. A. Carvalho and R. F. da Silva - This scientific review article provides an overview of different extraction methods used for medical cannabis products, including tinctures.