Discover what decarboxylation is, why it matters for CBD, and how this process transforms hemp into the CBD you know.
Decarboxylation is a key step in turning the raw hemp plant into the CBD found in oils, gummies, and other products. In its natural state, the hemp plant does not contain CBD. Instead, it holds a compound called CBDA, or cannabidiolic acid. Through the process of decarboxylation, CBDA is transformed into CBD.
This transformation happens when the plant is exposed to heat. The heat causes CBDA to lose a small part of its structure, which is called a carboxyl group. Once this group is removed, CBDA becomes CBD, which is the form most commonly used in products. We’ll discuss decarboxylation in this guide and how CBD is created through this process.
The Science Behind Decarboxylation
The hemp plant produces cannabinoids in their acidic forms, such as CBDA and THCA. These forms are not as easily used by the body as their neutral counterparts, CBD and THC. Decarboxylation is the process that makes these compounds more available for use.
What decarboxylation is really all about is a chemical process. The raw cannabinoids in hemp, such as CBDA, have a carboxyl group connected to their structure. Because of the heat, this group breaks apart and is released as carbon dioxide. CBD is what's left, which is easier to absorb and use.
This is not something that only happens with CBD. The well-known compound in cannabis, THC, does the same thing. After decarboxylation, THCA, which is acidic, turns into THC. Both changes are necessary for the chemicals in the plant to become active and ready to be used.
How Decarboxylation Works
Even though there are different ways to do it, the most common method is to use controlled heating. This process is performed in a lab as the cannabinoids from hemp are processed into materials for consumer goods.. The timing and heating are critical so that the cannabinoids aren’t inactivated during the process.
This is the typical decarboxylation process:
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The plant material is first heated at a low temperature to remove moisture.
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After drying, the temperature is increased to start the decarboxylation process.
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The plant is kept at this temperature for a set period, usually between 30 and 60 minutes.
The exact temperature and time can vary, but most decarboxylation happens between 220°F and 250°F (about 105°C to 120°C). This gentle heat is enough to remove the carboxyl group without burning the plant or losing important compounds like terpenes.
Decarboxylation in CBD Production
In the world of CBD products, decarboxylation is a standard step. Before CBD can be extracted from hemp, the plant material is usually decarboxylated. This ensures that the final product contains CBD in its most usable form.
Common CBD products that require decarboxylation are:
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CBD oils and tinctures
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Edibles such as gummies and chocolates
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Capsules and softgels
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Topical creams and lotions
Most of these products are made with decarboxylated hemp, so the CBD has been transformed into a form the body can use. Some specialty products may use raw hemp and contain CBDA, but these are less common.
Getting the temperature and time right is crucial for successful decarboxylation. If the temperature is too low, not all the CBDA will turn into CBD. If it’s too high, you risk damaging the CBD and other important compounds.
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Decarboxylation usually takes place at 220°F to 250°F (105°C to 120°C).
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The process typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes.
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Gentle, even heating helps preserve terpenes and other important plant compounds.
What if You Skip Decarboxylation?
Most of the CBD in the plant will stay as CBDA if you don't decarboxylate it. It might not work the same way as goods made with decarboxylated CBD. A few people choose raw hemp products because they are different, but most CBD products are decarboxylated to make them more consistent and ready to use.
Decarboxylation and Extraction
After decarboxylation, the next step in making CBD products is extraction. This is when the CBD is pulled out of the plant material using methods like CO2 or ethanol extraction. Decarboxylation makes this process more efficient and helps ensure the final product contains the right amount of CBD.
Extraction methods used after decarboxylation include:
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CO2 Extraction: Uses carbon dioxide to extract CBD.
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Ethanol Extraction: Uses ethanol to pull CBD from the plant.
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Oil Infusion: Soaks decarboxylated hemp in oil to extract CBD.
Each method has its benefits, but all rely on decarboxylated hemp for the best results.
Decarboxylation in CBD
Decarboxylation is a simple but essential step in making CBD products. A small amount of heat changes CBDA in hemp plants into CBD, which the body can use more easily. When you understand decarboxylation, you can make better decisions about CBD oil you buy in a shop. It's an important step in the process of turning hemp into the CBD products you know and trust.