Discover the ins and outs of Cannabis Distillate made from isolate vs trim in this comprehensive FAQ guide. From the extraction process to consumption methods, we cover it all.
What is Cannabis Distillate?
Cannabis Distillate is a highly potent form of cannabis extract that is known for its purity and concentration. It is made by distilling cannabinoids and terpenes from either isolate or trim, producing a clear and viscous liquid.
Cannabis Distillate typically has a high THC content, but it can also be produced with higher levels of CBD or other cannabinoids depending on the desired effects.
Due to its high potency, Cannabis Distillate is often used for medical purposes as well as for recreational use.
How is Cannabis Distillate Made From Isolate?
Challenges often arise when crafting "distillate" from isolate, especially in batches with a hefty mass of THCA crystals. Contamination with residual impurities is a concern, particularly when the isolate falls short of the 99% purity mark, potentially compromising distillate quality and triggering isomerization issues. Achieving satisfactory results demands a strategic approach, beginning with dissolving the isolate in a solvent and undergoing meticulous preprocessing before engaging in clean distillation.
Contrary to the practice of avoiding further refinement of crystallized THCA before distillation, dismissing it as counterproductive, there's an advocacy for proper handling and preparation of trim, flower, or any THCA-mixed extract. The specifics of the starting material matter less; what counts is mastering effective product preparation for distillation, especially with less pure extracts colloquially known as "poop soup."
Reflecting on the past, approximately five years ago, there was a push for the "diamonds to distillate" concept, aiming to justify higher prices. However, it was primarily perceived as a scam. Labs making bold processing claims were met with skepticism, as the direct conversion of diamonds or THC isolate into distillate was deemed impractical.
In the realm of cannabis lab technology involved in the production of Cannabis Distillate from isolate, the meticulous process encompasses winterization and distillation. The journey begins by dissolving the pure THC or CBD isolate in a solvent, typically ethanol, effectively dissolving cannabinoids. Subsequent steps involve freezing and filtration to separate desired cannabinoids from unwanted plant material or impurities. The process proceeds with solvent evaporation through a rotary evaporator, resulting in a concentrated cannabis extract.
Additionally, the distillation process involves isolating and purifying cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD, from the cannabis plant. Making cannabis distillate from isolate typically follows these steps:
Isolate Extraction: Obtain a pure isolate of the desired cannabinoid (THC or CBD) through methods like CO2 or ethanol extraction, followed by purification.
Decarboxylation: If the isolate is in its acidic form (THCA or CBDA), it undergoes decarboxylation by heating to convert it into its active form (THC or CBD).
Distillation: Subject the isolated and decarboxylated cannabinoids to a distillation process, heating to their boiling points and condensing the vapor to separate and purify the compounds.
Fractional Distillation: Further refine and separate specific cannabinoids through multiple distillation steps based on their boiling points.
Purification: Achieve high purity by employing additional steps like filtration or chromatography to remove any remaining impurities or undesirable compounds.
Testing: Test the final distillate for potency, purity, and residual solvents to ensure it meets quality standards.
How is Cannabis Distillate Made From Trim?
Cannabis distillate can be made from trim, consisting of the leaves, stems, and other plant material typically removed during the cultivation and trimming process. The process of making cannabis distillate from trim involves several key steps:Extraction: Trim is first subjected to an extraction process to remove cannabinoids from the plant material. Common extraction methods include using solvents like ethanol, hydrocarbons (such as butane or propane), or supercritical CO2. The choice of extraction method can affect the quality and composition of the final distillate.
Winterization: The extracted material often undergoes a winterization process to remove unwanted fats, waxes, and lipids. This is typically done by dissolving the extract in ethanol and freezing it. The undesirable compounds solidify and can be filtered, leaving a more refined extract.
Decarboxylation: If the extracted cannabinoids are in their acidic form (THCA or CBDA), they need to be decarboxylated. This involves heating the extract to convert the acidic cannabinoids into their active forms (THC or CBD).
Distillation: The decarboxylated extract is then subjected to distillation. This process involves heating the extract to separate and purify the cannabinoids based on their boiling points. The vaporized cannabinoids are then condensed back into a liquid form.
Fractional Distillation: Similar to the process with isolates, fractional distillation may refine further and separate specific cannabinoids, achieving higher purity.
Purification: Additional purification steps, such as filtration or chromatography, may be employed to remove any remaining impurities and improve the overall quality of the distillate.
Testing: The final distillate is typically tested for potency, purity, and the absence of residual solvents to ensure it meets quality standards.
It's important to note that the specific details of the process can vary between manufacturers, and adherence to local regulations and safety standards is crucial. Additionally, solvents should be used carefully in the extraction process and compliance with relevant laws.
What Are The Differences Between Cannabis Distillate Made from Isolate and Trim?
The main difference between Cannabis Distillate made from isolate and trim lies in the starting material used.
Cannabis Distillate made from isolate starts with a pure form of THC or CBD, ensuring a higher purity and consistency in the final product.
On the other hand, Cannabis Distillate made from trim utilizes leftover plant material, resulting in a slightly different cannabinoid profile and potentially lower purity.
Additionally, Cannabis Distillate made from isolate is generally more expensive than distillate made from trim due to the higher cost of isolates.
What Are The Various Uses And Consumption Methods of Cannabis Distillate?
Cannabis Distillate can be used in various ways and consumed through different methods.
It can be vaporized using a dab rig or a vaporizer pen, providing quick and potent effects.
Cannabis Distillate can also be used to make edibles, topicals, tinctures, and other infused products.
When using Cannabis Distillate for edibles, it is essential to decarboxylate the distillate beforehand to activate the cannabinoids.
Additionally, some users may choose to add Cannabis Distillate to joints, blunts, or bowls to enhance the potency of their smoking experience.
It is important to note that Cannabis Distillate is highly potent, so it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.
