What is THC Oil?
THC oil is a cannabis extract that has been steadily gaining popularity over the past few years. Despite this, there is still some confusion surrounding “THC oil”, as it is used interchangeably with THC extract, THC concentrate, THC tincture, and other terms that, although similar, are not exactly the same.
In this guide, NuLeaf Naturals will clear the air surrounding THC oil to offer a comprehensive guide into what it is, how it’s used, its benefits, legal status, and where you can find it. Continue reading to learn more about THC oil and how it’s quickly becoming a hot item in the cannabis market.
What is THC Oil?
THC Oil may refer to THC extract, THC concentrate, THC tincture, or some other variation that could be specific to certain formulations or products. While THC oil is a key ingredient in all of these, they are not all considered THC oil.
NuLeaf Naturals THC Oil is specifically designed to be taken sublingually as an oral tincture. This distinguishes it from other THC oils that may be inhaled, added to edibles, or otherwise consumed non-orally.
How is THC Oil Made?
To help understand what THC oil is, it’s beneficial to understand the extraction processes involved with it. The two most common extraction methods for producing THC oil are BHO extraction and CO2 extraction.
BHO Extraction
BHO, or Butane Hash Oil, extraction is a commonly-used method for producing high-potency cannabis concentrates. It involves passing butane gas through cannabis flower to extract the resins, resulting in a highly concentrated oil of 90% THC or more. The resulting concentrate is then vaporized and inhaled to produce an intoxicating effect that is beyond that offered by traditional smoking of cannabis flower.
While BHO is a popular extraction method that is often preferred to produce large amounts of THC concentrate at scale, it can be a dangerous process if not done correctly. In addition, it relies on the use of solvents like butane, which can lead to health problems if not properly removed during the extraction process.
CO2 Extraction
CO2 extraction, also called supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, is another method of making THC oil. It involves passing liquid carbon dioxide through cannabis plants to dissolve terpenes and cannabinoids, creating a pure, 100% solventless extract that often contains more beneficial compounds than BO2 extraction.
CO2 extraction is popular as it allows more control over the extraction process compared to BHO extraction. In addition, because it doesn’t use solvents like butane, many consider CO2 extraction to be a cleaner process, resulting in a more pure, higher quality product. At Nuleaf Naturals, we consider CO2 extraction the superior method and therefore use it for all of our products, including our THC Oil.
Learn more about CO2 extraction.
Ethanol Extraction
Ethanol extraction is another method for extracting concentrates from cannabis that uses alcohol as a solvent. Alcohol is polar, meaning it can extract both water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds from the plant, leading some manufacturers to choose this method for producing full spectrum products. One notable downside to this method compared to BHO and CO2 extraction is that alcohol tends to extract chlorophyll from cannabis, which can lead to green color and plantier taste that isn’t always desirable.
How to Use THC Oil
THC oil is incredibly diverse and can be used in a number of ways. The method of ingestion depends on what form the THC oil is in. Some common ways THC oil is used include:
- Oral consumption – this includes oil-infused THC edibles and tinctures that are designed to be taken orally and digested.
- As a topical – THC oil is sometimes added to topical products like creams and balms for localized relief without the added psychoactive effect.
- Inhaled – THC oil in the form of concentrate is vaporized and inhaled for a more intense experience.
Benefits of THC Oil
THC oil is reported by many users to offer the following benefits:
- Relief from physical discomfort due to pain and inflammation
- May help improve sleep quality
- May enhance overall mood
Compared to other cannabis products, THC oil in tincture form offers numerous advantages. Many users prefer it as a healthier alternative to inhaled products like cannabis flower, concentrates, or vape cartridges. In addition, THC tinctures are discreet and portable, allowing consumers the freedom to take their THC oil wherever they go.
While none of these potential benefits have been evaluated by the FDA, research surrounding the many applications of THC oil and cannabis in general is ongoing and shows promise for a number of uses.
Is THC Oil Legal?
The legal status of THC oil varies depending on local laws and product potency. While hemp-derived THC Oil that contains less than 0.3% THC by weight is considered federally legal per the 2018 Farm Bill, individual states may have tighter regulations regarding its sale and use. High-potency products like THC concentrate are typically only legal in states that have legalized cannabis either medically or recreationally.
NuLeaf Naturals THC Oil contains less than 0.3% THC, making it Farm Bill compliant and legal in most states. As with any cannabis product, it’s up to the individual consumer to conduct their own research and determine whether THC oil is legal in their area.
Full Spectrum THC Oil by NuLeaf Naturals
Looking to buy THC oil online? NuLeaf Naturals offers a sublingual, full spectrum THC oil that is 100% organic, all-natural and legal in most US states. Our THC oil tincture is made using only the highest quality organic hemp grown in Colorado and contains only two ingredients: full spectrum hemp extract and organic virgin hemp seed oil. Head on over to our THC oil product page and start improving your overall wellness today!