Diving into the vibrant world of cannabis oil is like unlocking a treasure trove of possibilities. Whether one is a seasoned connoisseur or just curious, the variety of forms and functions this potent plant extract has to offer is truly impressive. With its rising popularity, cannabis oil is more than just a fleeting trend; it’s a revolution in wellness and recreation, finding its way into homes and cannabis dispensaries around the globe. This handy guide to the different types of cannabis oil sheds light on why cannabis oil is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the benefits of cannabis in its most concentrated form.
Cannabis Oil
Cannabis oil is extracted from the cannabis plant. Cannabis oil contains cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, known for their diverse effects on the human body. THC is renowned for its psychoactive properties, which can induce a feeling of euphoria and relaxation, making it popular for recreational use. On the other hand, CBD offers therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects.
Common Uses
The oil can be consumed orally, applied topically, or even inhaled through vaporization, providing versatility in its application. The precise composition of cannabis oil can vary based on the specific strain of cannabis and the extraction method employed, influencing its overall effectiveness and suitability for various applications.
Rick Simpson Oil
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), named after its creator Rick Simpson, emerged in 2003 as a potent cannabis extract intended for those with cancer. It is said that Simpson, diagnosed with skin cancer, applied the oil directly to his cancerous spots, which reportedly cleared within days. His journey with RSO began after dissatisfaction with conventional treatments, leading him to share his discovery widely.
Ask your budtender about the Compassion Products available at a Perfect Union dispensary near you that are free to qualifying individuals with the necessary documentation.
Overview
RSO oil is a potent dark extract derived from cannabis, encompassing all compounds present in the plant, including cannabinoids and terpenes. In contrast to cannabidiol (CBD), RSO oil contains high levels of THC, the compound responsible for the euphoric effects commonly associated with cannabis use.
Extraction Method
Extracting RSO oil is a labor-intensive process akin to making a tincture, involving washing cannabis buds with solvents like grain alcohol or ethanol and evaporating them to extract the oil. It’s important to note that RSO is not a branded product, resulting in various versions available online. Utilizing the entire plant for RSO oil production offers a distinctive flavor profile, reminiscent of a vegetable smoothie, featuring floral undertones and a touch of bitterness from the resin.
Butane Hash Oil (BHO)
Butane Hash Oil (BHO) is a highly sought-after concentrate among cannabis enthusiasts due to its potency and versatility. BHO comes in various forms such as shatter, wax, budder, or oil, each offering unique textures and consistency. Cannabis enthusiasts appreciate BHO for its efficiency in delivering a powerful high and its potential for preserving the distinct flavors and effects of different cannabis strains.
Extraction Method
Butane Hash Oil (BHO) is crafted through a process known as BHO extraction, utilizing butane as a solvent to separate THC and other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. This method can produce various textures like oils, waxes, and a brittle form known as shatter. The extraction involves either open blasting, an older and riskier technique, or closed-loop systems, which are safer by preventing butane leaks and allowing for solvent recovery.
Potency
BHO is renowned for its high THC levels, typically ranging from 50% to 90%. This makes it one of the most potent forms of cannabis concentrates available. Due to its high potency, BHO provides a more intense experience compared to traditional smoking methods, which can be overwhelming for those unaccustomed to such high THC levels.
Common Uses
BHO is versatile in its applications, often used in dabbing, a method of vaporizing the concentrates at high temperatures. It’s also incorporated into edibles, topicals, and vaping juices. However, it’s crucial for users to handle BHO with care due to its potency and the volatile nature of butane, ensuring all safety guidelines are followed to avoid accidents during extraction and use.
CO2 Oil
CO2 oil is a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts for its purity, potency, and flavor. CO2 oil is celebrated for its versatility, available in various forms catering to different consumption preferences. Its clean extraction process not only ensures a safer product but also allows for precise control over the final output, making it possible to customize the cannabinoid and terpene content to match the desired effects and flavors. For cannabis enthusiasts seeking a premium, health-conscious option, CO2 oil provides a top-tier experience that stays true to the essence of the original plant.
Extraction Method
Supercritical CO2 extraction, a cutting-edge technique, utilizes controlled temperature and pressure to maintain the integrity of cannabinoids and terpenes while avoiding decarboxylation. This method, considered the gold standard in cannabis extraction, involves transforming CO2 into a supercritical fluid—a state where it exhibits properties of both a gas and a liquid, allowing it to permeate through cannabis plant material efficiently. This process is not only cleaner and greener but also allows for the precise targeting of specific cannabinoids, enhancing the purity and potency of the resulting cannabis oil.
Common Uses
CO2 oil can be used in several ways, catering to various preferences and needs. One of the most common methods is vaping, where CO2 oil is loaded into vape pens or cartridges, offering a discreet and convenient way to enjoy its effects without the harmful byproducts of combustion. Additionally, CO2 oil can be dabbed using a dab rig, which involves heating a small amount of the concentrate on a hot surface and inhaling the vapor, delivering a powerful and immediate high. It is also commonly used in edibles, where precise dosing is achieved by incorporating the oil into foods and beverages, providing a smoke-free option that can offer long-lasting effects. For those who prefer topical applications, CO2 oil can be infused into balms and lotions to target localized pain or inflammation. Furthermore, it can be consumed sublingually by placing drops under the tongue for fast absorption into the bloodstream. The versatility of CO2 oil makes it a popular choice for both recreational and medicinal cannabis users seeking a clean and efficient way to experience the benefits of cannabis.
CBD and Hemp Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, derived from the cannabis plant, is celebrated for its therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects associated with Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike THC, CBD does not induce a high, making it an appealing option for those seeking relief from various ailments without altered mental states. CBD oil is produced by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil.
Differences Between CBD and Hemp Oil
While CBD oil uses the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the hemp plant, which are rich in CBD, hemp seed oil is derived from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. These seeds do not contain CBD but are packed with nutrients, fatty acids, and bioactive compounds that also offer health benefits. Unlike CBD oil, hemp seed oil does not have significant therapeutic properties but is used for its nutritional content.
Common Uses
For therapeutic effects, CBD oil can be consumed in various forms such as tinctures, capsules, and topical applications. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase based on personal tolerance and effectiveness. For nutritional benefits, hemp seed oil can be used in cooking or as a salad dressing. It is important to choose high-quality products that have been third-party tested to ensure purity and potency.
Live Resin Oil
Live resin oil is a premium cannabis concentrate renowned for its exceptional flavor and potency, making it a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts. Unlike other concentrates, live resin is made from fresh, flash-frozen cannabis plants, preserving the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes at their peak freshness. This process results in a product that captures the true essence of the plant, offering a richer aroma and more vibrant flavors compared to traditional cured extracts.
Common Uses
Live resin oil is typically used for dabbing or vaping, delivering a potent and flavorful experience that closely mirrors the profile of the original plant. Whether you’re seeking the intense euphoria of THC-rich strains or the therapeutic benefits of CBD-dominant varieties, live resin oil provides a high-quality, immersive cannabis experience that stands out in the world of concentrates.
Distillate Oil
Distillate oil is a highly refined cannabis concentrate that appeals to cannabis users for its purity, potency, and versatility. Created through a meticulous distillation process that separates and purifies cannabinoids from other plant compounds, distillate oil typically boasts extremely high levels of THC or CBD, depending on the desired end product. This process results in a nearly flavorless and odorless oil, making it an ideal ingredient for a wide range of cannabis products, including vape cartridges, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. For those seeking a powerful and consistent experience, distillate oil provides a reliable option, delivering precise doses of cannabinoids with minimal impurities.
Common Uses
Its ability to be easily infused into various forms of consumption allows users to enjoy the potent effects of cannabis in the way that best suits their lifestyle, whether it’s through vaping, ingesting, or applying it topically.
Rosin Oil
Rosin oil is a standout choice for cannabis enthusiasts who prioritize purity and a full-spectrum experience without the use of solvents. This premium concentrate is produced through a solventless extraction method that applies heat and pressure to cannabis flowers, kief, or hash, resulting in a rich, flavorful oil that retains the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids. The process preserves the nuanced profiles of each strain, delivering a robust and authentic flavor along with potent effects. Rosin oil is especially appreciated for its artisanal quality and the absence of chemical residues, making it a cleaner option for those who are health-conscious. Whether used for dabbing or vaping, rosin oil offers a pure, powerful, and enjoyable cannabis experience that highlights the best attributes of the plant.
Common Uses
Dabbing stands as its primary use, where heating a small amount on a hot surface vaporizes the oil for a direct and intense inhalation experience. It’s also popular in vaping devices, delivering a discreet and convenient method to enjoy its effects without combustion. Rosin oil is frequently employed in homemade edibles, offering a smoke-free way to ingest cannabis and experience long-lasting effects. Additionally, its use extends to topical applications, where it’s infused into balms or lotions to alleviate localized pain or inflammation. The versatility of rosin oil also allows for the creation of tinctures, consumed sublingually for a controlled dosage and prolonged effect.
Conclusion
The different types of cannabis oil—CBD and Hemp Oil, Rick Simpson Oil, Butane Hash Oil, and CO2 Extracted Oil—each serve unique purposes and cater to different needs, underlining the importance of understanding their individual characteristics and potential impacts.
FAQs
1. What are the main varieties of cannabis oil available?
There are three primary types of cannabis oil, each with distinct characteristics:
Isolate: This type contains only one cannabinoid, either THC or CBD, isolated from the rest of the plant’s components.
Full-spectrum: These oils include a variety of constituents found in the cannabis plant, present in different concentrations.
2. What criteria should I consider when purchasing cannabis oil?
When choosing cannabis oil, it’s crucial to check for third-party testing results. Ensure the product label lists ingredients, dosage, and expiration date. Additionally, the lot number and manufacturer’s contact information should be clearly displayed on the container.
3. What is the difference between Cannabis oil, Butane Hash Oil and Rick Simpson Oil?
Cannabis oil, RSO (Rick Simpson Oil), and BHO (Butane Hash Oil) are all cannabis extracts, but they differ in their extraction methods, composition, and typical uses.
Disclaimer: the information provided in this document is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.