CO2 vs Ethanol Extraction for Terpenes Preservation

Terpenes are volatile compounds that contribute to the aroma, flavor, and therapeutic properties of plant extracts, including cannabis and essential oils. The extraction method used can significantly impact terpene retention. This article compares supercritical CO2 extraction and ethanol extraction for terpene preservation, highlighting the role of a CO2 supercritical extraction machine.

1. Why Terpene Preservation Matters

Terpenes play an essential role in plant extracts:

• Aroma and Flavor: Responsible for the characteristic scent of essential oils and cannabis.

• Therapeutic Benefits: Many terpenes have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and other medicinal properties.

• Entourage Effect: Terpenes enhance the effects of cannabinoids in full-spectrum cannabis products.

2. CO2 Supercritical Extraction and Terpenes

The CO2 supercritical extraction machine allows for selective extraction, which helps retain terpenes:

• Low-Temperature Processing: CO2 extraction can be adjusted to lower temperatures, reducing terpene degradation.

• Fractional Extraction: Some CO2 systems allow terpene extraction at lower pressures before extracting cannabinoids.

• Minimal Post-Processing: Since CO2 leaves no solvent residues, terpenes remain intact without the need for solvent evaporation.

3. Ethanol Extraction and Terpenes

Ethanol extraction is efficient but may not be ideal for terpene preservation:

• Solvent Contact: Ethanol dissolves terpenes but may alter their chemical composition.

• Heat During Solvent Removal: Ethanol must be evaporated, exposing terpenes to heat that can degrade their quality.

• Loss of Volatile Compounds: Some light terpenes may be lost during the extraction and evaporation process.

4. Comparing CO2 vs. Ethanol for Terpene Retention

• CO2 Extraction: Allows for controlled, selective terpene extraction with minimal degradation.

• Ethanol Extraction: Extracts terpenes but may alter or degrade some due to heat exposure.

5. The Role of the CO2 Supercritical Extraction Machine

A CO2 supercritical extraction machine provides precise control over temperature and pressure, making it the superior choice for preserving terpenes.

6. Conclusion

For manufacturers looking to retain terpene profiles, supercritical CO2 extraction is the best option. Ethanol extraction can extract terpenes but often results in loss due to heat exposure. Investing in a CO2 supercritical extraction machine ensures better terpene preservation and higher-quality extracts.

READ MORE：

• CO2 vs Ethanol Extraction for Full-Spectrum Extracts

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• CO2 vs Ethanol Extraction Residual Solvent Levels

• Supercritical CO2 vs Ethanol Extraction Cost Comparison

• Ethanol Extraction vs CO2 Extraction for CBD Oil

• CO2 Extraction vs Ethanol Extraction Yield

• Supercritical CO2 vs Ethanol Extraction Purity

• CO2 vs Ethanol Extraction for Cannabinoids

• Supercritical CO2 Extraction vs Ethanol Extraction Efficiency