Co2 Extraction

There are a few types of this particular process, but they all generally work with the same principles as the hydrocarbon solvents. Co2 is often preferred because carbon dioxide is non-toxic at low levels, and it isn’t flammable . Co2 extracts are generally less potent, and less flavorful/aromatic, partially because the pressures involved in making Co2 break up the actual plant matter itself , releasing a significant amount of waxes and fats into the final product. Usually these products undergo a second process called de-waxing. Simply put the Co2 oil is dissolved in warm ethyl alcohol, placed in a freezer overnight, and then vacuum filtered. This process causes the waxes to solidify in the cold temperature , so that a filter can grab them, allowing the dissolved cannabinoids and terpenes to pass through . The solution is then placed in a machine called a rotary evaporator , which evaporates and then condenses the alcohol out, leaving just the meds in the flask. This process yields a very clean product, but rarely do these types of extracts have the flavor or potency of hydrocarbon or proper mechanical extracts. Examples of products we carry utilizing this process are Brite products ,Bloom carts, some ABX carts like the half g’s, Kushy Punch gummies and Big Sur Sundrops.

-Kevin Moon, Director of Extraction at Tahoe Wellness Center