Distillate refers to a highly refined cannabis extract that is known for its high potency and purity. It is produced through a process called distillation, which separates and concentrates specific cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD, from the raw cannabis plant material.
The distillation process involves several steps. First, the cannabis plant material is typically subjected to an initial extraction method, such as supercritical CO2 extraction or hydrocarbon extraction, to obtain a crude oil or resin. This crude oil contains a mixture of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds.
Next, the crude oil undergoes a distillation process to separate and isolate the desired cannabinoids. Distillation utilizes the principles of boiling points and vaporization to separate the components based on their different molecular weights and characteristics. This process involves heating the crude oil to specific temperatures, capturing the vapor, and then cooling it down to condense the desired cannabinoids into a purified form.
The result of this distillation process is a highly potent and refined cannabis extract with a clear and viscous consistency. Distillates are often referred to by the specific cannabinoid they contain, such as THC distillate or CBD distillate. They typically have a high concentration of the target cannabinoid, often exceeding 90% purity.
Distillates are known for their versatility and are commonly used in various cannabis products, including vape cartridges, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and more. Due to their high potency and purity, distillates can offer precise and consistent dosing, making them popular among both recreational and medical cannabis users.