Today, we’re discussing the difference between CO2 and distillate-extracted cartridges.
What’s the difference?
The terpene and cannabinoid profile, effect, color, and viscosity. Distillates are made by heavily refining and separating cannabinoids through high heat to distill them to their purest form. Distillate cartridges often result in highest concentrations of THC, creating a more thick, viscous oil that is lighter in color and odorless . Botanically derived terpenes (terpenes found from other sources) are used to thin and flavor the oil, but do not provide the same synergistic effects as CO2 cartridges due to terpenes being lost in the high heat distillation process. The benefit to distillate oil is that it is so refined to one specific cannabinoid that is leaves you with a blank slate of pure, potent oil.
CO2 is a supercritical fluid, meaning at specific temperatures and pressures, CO2 can adopt properties midway between a gas and a liquid. During this supercritical extraction process, itacts as a non-toxic solvent to remove cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. This process has been around for decades in several industries including food and cosmetics. Because the terpenes and cannabinoids native to the plant remain intact, CO2 extractions often result in a more full-spectrum oil and in turn, effect. The CO2 extraction leaves you with a darker oil that closely resembles the profile of the cannabis it’s processed from. Just like liquid flower! CO2 is naturally occuring and one of the safest non-polar solvents.
What are your favorite carts right now? Lets us know!
