The battle of the titans: ethanol extraction vs. BHO extraction vs. CO2 extraction. Which one produces the best cannabis oil? Which one is the best and most cost-effective method for cannabis producers? In short, it depends.

Light hydrocarbon solvents (butane and propane) have been the powerful, nonpolar compounds favored by the upper echelon of artisan edible makers.

From the colorful, sugar-frosted gummies to the rich and decadent fudge brownies cheekily laced with cannabinoids, these infused edibles are used for their therapeutic, and often, intoxicating effects.

For home amateurs, an easy ISO quick-wash can produce a rudimentary and solvent-free extract without blowing up the house. For commercial extraction, butane and propane extraction for concentrates provide the highest possible quality, purity, and throughput.

The extracts and concentrates industry is constantly evolving and developing new processes and products to satisfy every type of cannabis and hemp consumer. Along with it, new terminology has emerged to capture the differences in the various complex extraction processes. Terms such as CBD isolate, broad spectrum, and full spectrum have all made their way into the vernacular of the extraction industry, and are often times used incorrectly or interchangeably.

Cannabis concentrates range in texture, potency, and quality, but each provides a concentrated form of medicinal and therapeutic compounds found in the cannabis plant. While many cannabis consumers only focus on a couple of cannabinoids (THC and CBD), the truth is that cannabinoid isolates pale in comparison to an extract that also contains terpenes and flavonoids. Aromatic terpene and flavonoid compounds contribute to more than just a strain’s smell. They interact with cannabinoids to amplify or mitigate certain effects.