SPECIAL SECTION
wHY PURGING IS ESSENTIAL >> Getting rid of solvents left over from the extraction process is key to crafting safe and potent medicine BY AARON P. FOR NORTHWEST LEAF | PHOTO BY DANIEL BERMAN
H
oney oil, also known as hash oil, is the strongest derivative of Cannabis available. Its mix of high THC and CBD counts make it ideal for experienced medical patients.
Making the oil involves using a solvent, traditionally alcohol but more frequently butane, to extract the oil from the dried plant material. The process of making honey oil can be learned easily, but the purging of the solvent is one area where mistakes are oft-made. Purging the solvent from the oil is a critical component of the process to obtain a clean and quality product. With proper purging, you can effectively remove any remaining solvent -- solvent is potentially harmful if consumed. Purging also has a substantial effect on the potency of the oil, increasing both THC and CBD levels and activating the oil so it can be consumed orally. Purging involves heating the oil after all visible solvent has evaporated. Wait until you think that all the alcohol/butane is gone and then place your oil dish in a preheated 200-degree oven for about 20 minutes. Stir the oil every five minutes to speed the evaporation process and monitor the progress. Remove the oil from the oven once it obtains a glassy-like texture. Practice makes perfect. If you want to learn more, come down to Columbia City Holistic Health and talk to our honey oil experts. Happy extracting!
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RAW BUTANE BUBBLES SHOWCASE EXACTLY WHY PURGING IS SO IMPORTANT
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