A few years back, few people knew anything about CBD oil. At the moment, it has a huge demand. Millions of people are now using it as a health supplement. However, what exactly is it? Where can you buy it? Can you get CBD oil? Where is it obtained? Is it legal?
Where Does CBD Oil Come From?
CBD or cannabidiol is one of the over a hundred compounds found in the oily resin of the cannabis plants. This sticky resin is concentrated on the dense clusters of cannabis flowers. Trichomes are specialized glandular structures that contain medicinal compounds such as CBD, THC, and aromatic terpenes. The oily trichomes are meant to protect the plant from ultraviolet radiation and heat. The oil has insecticidal, antibacterial, and antifungal properties to deter predators.
CBD oil is obtained from the trichomes of cannabis plants. You should note that there various cannabis varieties. The amount of CBD in trichomes is dependent on a given variety of hemp and cannabis. Industrial hemp is defined as cannabis with less than 0.3 THC. Most high resin cannabis plants are THC-dominant with minimal CBD. Therefore, choosing appropriate CBD-rich cannabis is key for extracting the CBD oil. You should note that trichomes are fragile structures by nature and can break off of the cannabis flower.
How is CBD Oil Made?
To get CBD oil, you must begin with CBD-rich plant material. There are different ways of extracting CBD oil from the cannabis plant. In fact, each method has its pros and cons. Some of them are more effective and safer than others. After extracting it from the plant and removing the solvent, CBD oil can be formulated and refined into different consumable products such as edibles, gel caps, tinctures, topicals, beverages, vape oils, and more.
CO2 Extraction of CBD Oil
This is the most commonly used method for extracting CBD oil. In fact, it is regarded as the safest. It can be carried out at room temperature, and carbon dioxide is the gas required. The only problem with this method is that it cannot be used in fluctuating temperatures and under high pressure as carbon dioxide will liquefy and block pipes.
Ethanol Extraction of CBD Oil
Using ethanol to extract medicinal compounds from cannabis and many other plants has been a practice in various cultures. Ethanol-based tinctures are recommended for treating a wide range of ailments that include depression, pain, muscle spasm, and other ailments.
