CO2 Extraction: Why It’s the Gold Standard for Pure CBD & THC
CO2 extraction is an advanced method used to pull cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant. It is considered the gold standard because it creates an exceptionally pure, potent, and solvent-free extract.
How Does CO2 Extraction Work? A Simple Guide
CO2 extraction is widely recognized as the best way to extract CBD from hemp. It is significantly more expensive than ethanol extraction due to the high cost of the equipment required.
Using CO2 as a Natural Solvent
The CO2 extraction process involves pressurizing CO2. When put under specific pressure and temperature, carbon dioxide enters a “supercritical” state where it acts simultaneously like a liquid and a gas. This supercritical CO2 serves as a highly effective solvent.
The Extraction Process
During extraction, supercritical CO2 is passed through the hemp plant material. The CO2 breaks the hemp’s cell walls, causing the essential oils to be released for collection. Once the extraction is complete, the CO2 simply evaporates, leaving behind only the pure, full-spectrum hemp extract.
The 3 Main Advantages of CO2 Extraction
CO2 extraction offers several significant advantages over other methods, makng sure a high-quality product.
Makes Sure a Pure, Solvent-Free Product
Because carbon dioxide is a natural compound that evaporates completely, there is zero risk of residual chemical solvents, such as ethanol or butane, remaining in the final product. NuLeaf Naturals does not use an ethanol extraction process.
Preserves the Full Spectrum of Cannabinoids
The CO2 extraction process is gentle. Compared to supercritical extraction, which may destroy delicate cannabinoids and terpenes due to high temperatures and pressures, CO2 extraction allows a greater range of compounds to remain active and present in the final product. This is important for those who value the entourage effect.
Offers High Potency and Consistency
CO2 extraction is highly efficient, resulting in a potent extract that can be precisely formulated for consistent products in every batch. Herbal extraction also creates a more potent product by separating active compounds from inactive materials like cellulose.
Why Nuleaf Naturals is Committed to CO2 Extraction
At Nuleaf Naturals, our commitment is to provide the purest and most effective wellness products possible*. We exclusively use CO2 extraction because we believe it is the only method that meets our high standards for safety, purity, and potency, making sure you receive the full potential benefits of the hemp plant*, and nothing else.
We combine both supercritical and subcritical extraction to provide the benefits of both processes. We begin with subcritical extraction to preserve delicate cannabinoids and terpenes, followed by supercritical extraction to maximize the CBD yield. This hybrid CO2 extraction process results in a product that is potent and contains the widest variety of naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes on the market.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
