Author WEED-MASTER June 8th 2017
BROAD SPECTRUM EXTRACTION OILS FOR BIOACTIVE MOLECULES FROM CANNABIS
Cannabis extraction has always been a quest to translate the essence between a living plant and the resin itself. For extractors, the goal is to create a product that can present the unique profile of a cannabis strain and keep it in a resin. This kind of achievement is finally possible thanks to science and a new extraction technology: the full spectrum extraction oil from a cannabis plant. These broad-spectrum extractions are a complete suite of bioactive molecules from a strain of cannabis. They represent such a depth of flavor that you might think they were literally taken from a living plant.
CANNABIS OILS WITH BROAD SPECTRUM
In live cannabis, there is a suite of more than 500 bioactive and therapeutic compounds. This spectrum of molecules not only contains the cannabinoids and terpenes which are loved and recognized among cannabis enthusiasts. But also a plethora of other lesser-known but equally important elements such as flavonoids, phenolic amides and sterols.
With standard extractions, often many of these lesser-known components are filtered out. Which leaves behind a lack of depth and complexity. This is often the case with extracts such as Shatters (chips) and Waxes (waxes). Of course, these extracts contain high levels of THC, and in many cases, over 70%. However, with a low percentage of bioactive compounds like terpenes and flavonoids, offers a flat and insignificant experience.
In order to achieve full spectrum in a cannabis extract, it is necessary to translate the profile of the bioactive compounds that a cannabis flower contains. And this without compromising the appearance of the profile of the plant. This not only includes the same cannabinoid levels as terpenes and flavonoids. But also the complete suite of other lesser-known compounds, while also removing unnecessary components (eg fats, lipids, etc.). Unlike concentrated cannabis strains such as bubble hash, dry sift and rosin, where fat and lipids remain. Full-spectrum extracts remove these elements, leaving behind only what is desired. A full spectrum extract is therefore all about preserving the compounds in cannabis while removing impurities that can compromise the experience.
AN ELITIST TECHNOLOGY
If you are looking to get this full-spectrum oil, be patient. Because there are currently only a few companies around the world with the technology to make such a product. Full-spectrum extracts require extensive scientific know-how and professional refining methodology. In order to create a full spectrum product, several layers of refinement must take place. This kind of extract requires a very specific hydrocarbon solution, administered at exact temperatures. But it must also undergo additional cold refining phases (as for olive oil), and an additional separation phase, while maintaining atmospheric homeostasis throughout the process ...
EXTRACTIONEERING
Extractioneering, a US-based extraction company in New England, is arguably the market pioneer in quality full-spectrum extraction. The company has done a great job in educating the cannabis industry. Especially when it comes to what a true extract of the full spectrum of a cannabis strain means.
In January 2016, Extractioneering introduced a new range of products on the market: HT-FSE (High Terpene Full Spectrum Extract) and ke HC-FSE (High Cannabinoid Full Spectrum Extract). These two full-spectrum products are derived from the same basic formula. HT-FSE products are clear viscous liquids that can remain stable indefinitely. They contain terpene profiles often above 20%. HC-FSEs, on the other hand, contains a much higher concentration of THC. and therefore take on a sweeter consistency. These two products are designed to contain the full range of bioactive molecules available from a strain of cannabis. This is what makes Extractioneering's FSE line so unique.
PRODUCT WARRANTY
Full-spectrum, by its very nature, demonstrates that a product should have the same ratio of compounds as in cannabis flower form. And there is no better proof than a laboratory test, well, an accredited analytical laboratory…. The other side of the coin? Not all analytical facilities are equipped with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometers. This material is required to test the full list of bioactive molecules in an FSE sample. These tests are often expensive because NMR machines can cost several hundred thousand dollars….
It's important to understand that not all snippets are created equal. Truly complete spectrum extracts can be difficult to find these days. But rest assured that this technology will soon be the norm in cannabis extractions. If you find yourself in the presence of a retailer offering ESF, be sure to request lab testing and look for visual identifiers associated with full-spectrum chopping oils. Their unique viscosity, opacity, and consistency will be taken into account. Any retailer lucky enough to distribute this hash oil (of such quality) will be happy to show the stats.
Weed media broadcaster and communications manager specializing in legal cannabis. Do you know what they say? knowledge is power. Understand the science behind cannabis medicine, while staying up to date with the latest health-related research, treatments and products. Stay up to date with the latest news and ideas on legalization, laws, political movements. Discover tips, tricks and how-to guides from the most seasoned growers on the planet as well as the latest research and findings from the scientific community on the medical qualities of cannabis.