How does the method of extraction impact cannabis oil quality?

The method of extraction plays a crucial role in determining the quality of cannabis oil. Different extraction techniques can influence not only the purity of the final product but also its potency by affecting the profile of cannabinoids and terpenes extracted from the plant material.

Different methods — such as CO2 extraction, ethanol extraction, and hydrocarbon extraction — operate under varying conditions and utilize different solvents, resulting in varying levels of contaminants, cannabinoids, and terpenes. For example, CO2 extraction can produce a very pure oil with a full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, while methods utilizing solvents like butane or ethanol can leave behind residual chemicals if not thoroughly purged.

Additionally, the efficiency of the extraction method can affect the concentration of active compounds obtained. This variation is significant for consumers seeking specific therapeutic effects or potency levels from their cannabis oils, making it essential to understand how extraction methods influence the end product. Thus, acknowledging that different extraction methods yield varying purity and potency levels provides a comprehensive understanding of cannabis oil quality.