CO2 oil and distillate are both forms of cannabis extracts, but they differ in their manufacturing process and chemical composition.
CO2 extraction oil
CO2 oil is produced using the supercritical carbon dioxide extraction process, which is a method of extraction that uses high pressure and low temperatures to strip the plant of its essential oils, cannabinoids, and terpenes. The resulting CO2 oil is typically darker in color and has a more natural, earthy flavor compared to other extracts.
CO2 oil tends to retain more of the plant’s natural compounds, including terpenes and other cannabinoids, which can provide a more varied and nuanced high that incorporates the full range of effects associated with cannabis. As a result, CO2 oil may be preferred by those seeking a more holistic and authentic high that is closely tied to the cannabis plant.
In cannabis extract, CO2 oil is a highly concentrated extract that contains a high percentage of cannabinoids and terpenes. It is typically used for vaping or dabbing and can also be used for cooking or baking.
Properties of CO2 Cannabis Oil
- Highly concentrated extract that contains a high percentage of cannabinoids and terpenes
- Typically used for vaping or dabbing
- Can also be used for cooking or baking
- Can range in color from light yellow to dark amber, depending on the quality of the starting material and the extraction process
- Typically has a thicker, more viscous consistency compared to other types of cannabis extracts
CO2 Extraction Process
CO2 extraction is a popular method of extracting cannabis oil because it is a relatively safe and efficient process that produces high-quality extracts. The CO2 extraction process involves three primary stages: extraction, winterization, and distillation.
Extraction
In this stage, CO2 is used to extract the active compounds from the cannabis plant material. The CO2 is heated and pressurized to create a supercritical fluid that can penetrate the plant material and dissolve the desired compounds. The CO2 is then passed through the plant material, where it extracts cannabinoids, terpenes, and other active compounds.
Winterization
After the extraction, the mixture is subjected to a process called winterization. This involves mixing the extract with high-proof alcohol, which helps to dissolve and remove any unwanted plant material and lipids. The mixture is then cooled to a very low temperature, which causes the unwanted materials to solidify and separate from the extract.
Distillation
The final stage involves distillation, which separates the different compounds in the extract. The extract is heated and the different compounds are separated based on their boiling points. This process results in a highly concentrated oil that contains a high percentage of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Distillate
Cannabis distillate is a highly concentrated form of cannabis that is typically made using a process known as short-path distillation. This process involves heating and vaporizing the cannabis oil, then condensing and collecting the resulting vapor to create a highly potent and pure form of cannabis oil.
- Butane hash oil (BHO) is a type of cannabis concentrate that is made using butane as a solvent to extract the desired compounds from the cannabis plant. The resulting oil is typically high in THC and other cannabinoids and can be used to make cannabis distillate.
- Ethanol is another solvent that is commonly used to extract cannabis compounds. When used in the distillation process, it can help to remove impurities and produce a cleaner, purer form of cannabis oil.
The properties of cannabis distillate with BHO and ethanol will depend on a variety of factors, including the starting material used, the extraction methods employed, and the distillation process used. However, in general, cannabis distillate made using BHO and ethanol can be expected to be highly concentrated, with a high THC content and a relatively pure composition.
Four steps of cannabis distillate
The process of making cannabis distillate with BHO and ethanol typically involves the following steps:
- Extraction: The cannabis plant material is first extracted using either butane or ethanol as a solvent, depending on the desired end product.
- Winterization: The resulting extract is then mixed with ethanol and frozen to remove any waxes, lipids, and other impurities.
- Short Path Distillation: The winterized extract is then subjected to short path distillation, which involves heating the extract to vaporize the desired compounds and then condensing and collecting the resulting vapor.
- Refinement: The resulting distillate is then further refined using techniques such as chromatography to remove any remaining impurities and produce a highly pure and potent cannabis oil.
Co2 Oil Vs Distillate
It’s generally difficult to compare the highs produced by CO2 extraction oil vs. distillate, as they have different chemical compositions and effects.
- CO2 oil is typically considered to be a cleaner and safer extract than those made using solvents such as butane or ethanol, as it does not leave behind any residual solvents.
- BHO oil is typically high in THC and other cannabinoids and can be used to make other cannabis products such as edibles, tinctures, and topicals. BHO is generally considered to be a potent and flavorful extract, but it can be dangerous to make at home due to the risk of explosion or fire.
- Ethanol distillate is typically considered to be a cleaner and safer extract than BHO, as ethanol is less flammable than butane and does not leave behind any residual solvents.
- In terms of properties, CO2 oil is generally considered to be a cleaner and more pure extract than BHO or ethanol distillate, as it does not leave behind any residual solvents. However, it may not be as flavorful or potent as BHO, which is known for its strong terpene profile and high THC content. Ethanol distillate is generally considered to be a cleaner and safer extract than BHO, but may not be as flavorful or potent as BHO.
Chemical Compositions
CO2 oil and distillate have different chemical compositions due to the extraction methods used. CO2 oil typically contains a wider range of compounds, including terpenes, chlorophyll, and other plant matter. Distillate, on the other hand, is a more pure form of cannabis extract that has been refined to remove impurities and unwanted compounds.
In terms of potency, distillate tends to have higher THC levels, which can be upwards of 90%, while CO2 oil typically ranges from 50-80%. However, CO2 oil often retains more of the plant’s natural terpenes, which can provide a more nuanced and varied flavor profile.
Effects
In terms of effects, both CO2 oil and distillate can produce similar outcomes, such as pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria. However, the specific effects can vary depending on the cannabinoid and terpene content of the extract. For example, a CO2 oil that is high in THC and a terpene called limonene may produce an energizing and uplifting effect, while a distillate that is high in CBD and a terpene called myrcene may produce a more calming and sedative effect.
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are found in many plants, including cannabis. They play a significant role in the flavor and aroma of cannabis strains, and they also have potential therapeutic benefits. When terpenes are present in cannabis extracts like CO2 oil and distillate, they can enhance the overall experience by producing specific effects, depending on the terpene profile.
The Difference Between CO2 & Distillate Cartridges
The biggest difference between CO2 oil and distillates is what compounds are in the oil. CO2 oil will be closer in character to the original weed strain, in both flavor and effects.
Distillate is produced with a specific goal: isolating one or more cannabinoids from the original cannabis (usually THC and/or CBD). Distillate is usually more highly concentrated, so it’s stronger and less is required to achieve the same effects. Distillates can have THC content as high as 90%.
Usually, distillates will remove the terpenes from the original cannabis, leaving it flavorless. This can make distillates a better fit for use in edibles, as the taste won’t mess with recipes.
Final words
Ultimately, the choice between CO2 oil and distillate will depend on personal preference and intended use. CO2 oil may be preferred by those who value a more natural, flavorful extract, while distillate may be preferred by those who prioritize potency and purity.
Works Cited: Is CO2 or Distillate Better?