Extracting THC and CBD from cannabis allows users to obtain highly concentrated cannabinoids. For instance, efficient THC extraction can yield cannabis concentrates with THC levels exceeding 90%. Alcohol extraction stands out as one of the most prevalent methods for this purpose.

When executed correctly, alcohol extraction is a safe method. However, the choice of alcohol is crucial. Avoid denatured alcohol as it contains harmful additives, rendering it unsuitable for human consumption.

Understanding rubbing alcohol

Various types of alcohol exist, not all suitable for consumption. Ethyl alcohol, produced by yeast, is what we consume in the form of beer, wine, or spirits. In processes like winemaking, yeast ferments grape juice sugars to produce alcohol.

Ethanol, akin to the alcohol found in whiskey, is also employed as a fuel. It undergoes distillation until it’s almost pure alcohol. Denatured alcohol, another form of ethanol, is rendered toxic to deter consumption. Food-grade ethanol remains a popular solvent for THC and CBD extraction, favored by many large-scale producers.

Rubbing alcohol encompasses ethanol-based liquids or isopropyl alcohol. Unlike denatured alcohol, it serves various medical purposes as a topical application. Typically, it comprises 70% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol in concentrated form.

The term ‘rubbing alcohol’ encompasses both ethyl and isopropyl-based products with similar characteristics. In the UK, it’s commonly known as ‘surgical spirit,’ while North America adds methyl salicylate, also called wintergreen oil. Manufacturers in Canada and the United States adhere to their formulation standards, ensuring alcohol content ranges from 70% to 99%.

Both ethanol (C2H5OH) and isopropyl alcohol (C3H8O) are disinfectants. However, while ethanol poses no immediate risks when consumed, isopropyl alcohol metabolizes into acetone, posing significant toxicity risks.

The term ‘rubbing alcohol’ originated during the prohibition era (1920s) when alcoholic beverages were banned. It differentiated the type of alcohol used for medical purposes from that used for consumption, serving as a topical ointment during massages.

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Is rubbing alcohol safe for thc extraction?

There’s ongoing debate regarding the safety of using rubbing alcohol as a solvent for THC extraction. While isopropyl rubbing alcohol and denatured alcohol share similarities, their chemical compositions, toxicity levels, and manufacturing processes differ.

Neither variant is suitable for human consumption. Only food-grade ethanol or ethyl alcohol is deemed safe for consumption. Isopropyl alcohol refers to a substance, whereas denatured alcohol is a commercial product that can contain various ingredients, including ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, along with denaturants to deter consumption.

However, rubbing alcohol comes in different types. In the United States, rubbing alcohol formulations, per ATF regulations, must include toxic additives to discourage consumption and alcohol misuse. These rubbing alcohol varieties typically contain between 87.5% and 91% absolute ethyl alcohol, with the remainder comprising denaturants, water, and fragrance oils.

Moreover, specific isopropyl rubbing alcohols are available, ranging from 50% to 99% isopropyl alcohol content. If considering rubbing alcohol for THC extraction, opting for a variant with up to 99% isopropyl alcohol is advisable.

While isopropyl-based rubbing alcohol can be used for THC or cannabinoid extraction from marijuana, ethanol is a safer option. If choosing isopropyl alcohol for extraction, the process is often referred to as Quick Wash Isopropyl (QWISO).

How to perform qwiso thc extraction

QWISO (Quick Wash Isopropyl) extraction entails extracting trichomes from marijuana flowers to produce potent hash oil. To perform this extraction method, gather the following equipment:

Equipment Needed:

• Metal screen or filter (e.g., permanent coffee filter)
• Clean glass bowl
• Paper coffee filters
• Glass pot (e.g., coffee pot)
• Glass mason jar
• Plastic storage container
• Large sieve (consider having both large and small sieves if using more than 10 grams of bud)
• Cutting utensils
• Fan
• Oven
• 100-200ml of isopropyl alcohol
• At least 10 grams of bud
• Razor blade for collecting the extract

Procedure:

1. Prepare the Cannabis:
   • Grind the cannabis buds to increase surface area for extraction.
2. Freeze the Equipment:
   • Place the glass pot, glass mason jar, and metal screen/filter in the freezer for at least an hour before extraction. Cold equipment helps prevent the loss of cannabinoids during extraction.
3. Extract with Isopropyl Alcohol:
   • Pour the isopropyl alcohol over the ground cannabis in the glass bowl.
   • Stir the mixture gently for about 20 to 30 seconds to allow the alcohol to dissolve the trichomes.
4. Filter the Mixture:
   • Place the metal screen/filter over the glass mason jar and strain the alcohol-cannabis mixture through it.
   • Allow the mixture to filter into the mason jar.
5. Repeat the Wash:
   • Repeat the extraction process with fresh isopropyl alcohol. This ensures maximum extraction of cannabinoids.
6. Evaporate the Alcohol:
   • Pour the filtered mixture into the glass pot.
   • Place the glass pot on a heating source, such as a stove or hot plate, and set it to a low temperature.
   • Allow the alcohol to evaporate slowly, leaving behind the concentrated hash oil.
7. Dry the Extract:
   • Once the alcohol has evaporated, scrape the remaining hash oil from the glass pot using a razor blade.
   • Spread the extract onto a piece of parchment paper and allow it to air dry for 24 to 48 hours.
8. Store the Extract:
   • Once dry, store the hash oil in a plastic storage container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat.

By following these steps, you can successfully perform QWISO THC extraction to obtain high-quality hash oil from cannabis buds. Remember to handle isopropyl alcohol with caution and ensure proper ventilation during the extraction process.

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Preparing for the extraction process

Preparation is key when embarking on THC extraction using isopropyl alcohol, and it begins several hours in advance. Follow these steps to ensure a successful extraction:

1. Ensure Cleanliness:
   • Thoroughly clean and dry all containers you intend to use for the extraction process.
2. Grind the Buds:
   • Grind your cannabis buds into a small jar designated for the extraction process.
3. Freeze the Equipment:
   • Place the jar containing ground buds and the isopropyl alcohol in the freezer for several hours, preferably overnight. Freezing helps maintain low temperatures crucial for efficient extraction. Isopropyl alcohol’s freezing point is approximately -128.2 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring no concerns about solidification.
4. Rationale Behind Freezing:
   • Freezing the buds facilitates the efficient release of trichomes, enhancing extraction efficiency. Attempting the process without freezing may yield a significantly lower THC yield.
5. Prepare Filtering Setup:
   • Insert a coffee filter into the jar containing the ground buds. This setup acts as a makeshift bag for filtration purposes.
   • For larger-scale extractions, cover the entire surface area of a large sieve with coffee filters. Place the smaller strainer on top for added filtration efficiency.

By diligently following these preparation steps, you’ll set the stage for a successful THC extraction process. Remember, maintaining cleanliness and low temperatures are essential for maximizing THC yield and ensuring a quality end product.

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Extracting thc using isopropyl alcohol

Follow these steps for efficient THC extraction using isopropyl alcohol:

1. Submerge the Weed:
   • Pour all the isopropyl alcohol into the jar containing the ground cannabis. Ensure the buds are fully submerged in the alcohol.
2. Shake Vigorously:
   • Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Avoid over-shaking to prevent excessive chlorophyll extraction, which can result in a bitter taste.
3. Filter the Mixture:
   • Pour the contents through a sieve into another jar for filtration. Filtering may take up to an hour, so exercise patience. If any alcohol remains, pour it back into the jar to ensure thorough extraction of trichomes. Filter this additional solution.
4. Understanding the Process:
   • The cannabinoids dissolve in the alcohol during the extraction process. The sieve removes plant material, while the coffee filter further refines the liquid by eliminating small plant particles. With cannabinoids dissolved, the liquid now contains them in liquid form, facilitated by the coffee filter’s permeability to liquid but not solid particles.
5. Obtain the Liquid Extract:
   • After filtration, the jar contains a relatively clear liquid with a slight green tint, indicating the presence of THC. It’s crucial to remove the alcohol next.
6. Evaporate the Alcohol:
   • Transfer the liquid contents to a flat-surfaced container. If available, use a fan at its lowest setting to aid in the alcohol evaporation process. Ensure proper ventilation as alcohol evaporation involves a toxic and flammable substance. Evaporation may take up to 24 hours to complete.
7. Final Collection:
   • Once no traces of liquid remain on the flat surface, use a razor blade to gather the solid substance. A toothpick can help remove any material stuck to the razor blade.
8. Note on Yield:
   • Don’t be discouraged by the small amount of material obtained. It typically contains at least 70% THC (strain-dependent), and even a small quantity goes a long way due to its potency.

By meticulously following these steps, you’ll successfully extract THC from cannabis using isopropyl alcohol, yielding a potent and concentrated product. Ensure caution during the evaporation process due to the flammable nature of alcohol.

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Final considerations on using rubbing alcohol for thc extraction

In conclusion, using rubbing alcohol for THC extraction is feasible, but it comes with several important considerations. Firstly, denatured alcohol should never be used due to its poisonous nature. If opting for rubbing alcohol, it must be isopropyl-based, ideally with a concentration of up to 99%.

Differentiating between alcohol types can be confusing. Ethyl alcohol, commonly found in recreational beverages, is denatured by adding toxic substances, making it unfit for consumption. Isopropyl alcohol, while less toxic than denatured alcohol, is still harmful if ingested, causing adverse effects such as intestinal bleeding and vomiting.

If choosing isopropyl alcohol for extraction, extreme caution is necessary. Complete evaporation of all alcohol is essential before using the cannabis concentrate. While commonly used in DIY extractions, using food-grade ethanol is recommended for safety.

Similarly, complete evaporation of ethanol is crucial before consuming the marijuana concentrate. However, if residual ethanol remains, its consumption poses minimal risk, as ethanol is safe for human consumption and often used as a food preservative.

In summary, while rubbing alcohol can be used for THC extraction, using food-grade ethanol is a safer option. Always prioritize safety and thorough evaporation processes to minimize health risks associated with solvent extraction methods.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC product.