Root Sciences Blog

Distilled cannabis, also known as cannabis distillate, is a highly refined form of cannabis extract that is typically made using a process called short path distillation. This process involves heating and cooling the cannabis extract to remove impurities and separate the various components of the plant material. Here are some potential benefits of using distilled cannabis over cannabis flower:

1. Consistency: Distilled cannabis is typically more consistent in terms of potency and chemical composition than cannabis flower, which can vary depending on factors such as the strain, growing conditions, and harvesting methods. This makes it easier for users to achieve a predictable and reliable effect.

2. Purity: Because the distillation process removes impurities, distilled cannabis is generally considered to be a purer form of cannabis extract than other types of concentrates such as shatter or wax.

3. Versatility: Distilled cannabis can be used in a variety of ways, including smoking, vaping, and edibles, making it a versatile option for those who prefer not to smoke.

4. Flavor: Some users prefer the flavor of distilled cannabis over cannabis flower, which can have a strong and distinct taste and aroma.

5. Safety: When produced in a licensed and regulated facility, distilled cannabis is subject to strict quality control measures and safety standards, which can help ensure that it is free from harmful contaminants or additives.

It’s worth noting that there are also potential drawbacks to using distilled cannabis, such as the fact that it may be less flavorful than cannabis flower, and that it can be more expensive due to the labor-intensive process of producing it. As with any cannabis product, it’s important to consider your own personal preferences and needs when deciding which type of product to use.

Growing cannabis can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced grower, there are some common mistakes that can hinder your success. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most common mistakes of growing cannabis and how to avoid them.

1. Overwatering

One of the most common mistakes of growing cannabis is overwatering. Cannabis plants need water to grow, but they also need oxygen. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to die. To avoid overwatering, make sure that your soil is well-draining and that you only water your plants when the soil is dry to the touch.

2. Poor lighting

Another common mistake is using poor lighting. Cannabis plants require a lot of light to grow and thrive. If you use low-quality or insufficient lighting, your plants may not grow properly, or they may become stunted. Make sure that you use high-quality lighting and that your plants receive at least 12 hours of light per day.

3. Improper nutrient balance

Cannabis plants require a balance of nutrients to grow properly. If you use too much or too little of certain nutrients, your plants may suffer. Make sure that you use a balanced nutrient mix and that you follow the instructions carefully. Additionally, be sure to flush your plants with water periodically to remove any excess nutrients that may build up in the soil.

4. Incorrect pH levels

Cannabis plants require a specific pH range to grow properly. If the pH is too high or too low, the plant may not be able to absorb nutrients properly, which can lead to deficiencies. Make sure that you test the pH of your soil and water regularly and adjust it as needed.

5. Failure to properly control the environment

Cannabis plants require specific environmental conditions to grow properly. If the temperature, humidity, or airflow is not properly controlled, the plants may suffer. Make sure that you monitor the environment closely and adjust it as needed to ensure that your plants are growing in optimal conditions.

These are just a few of the most common mistakes of growing cannabis. By avoiding these mistakes and taking the time to properly care for your plants, you can increase your chances of a successful harvest. Remember, growing cannabis is a learning process, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes.

The cannabis markets in different US states can vary significantly due to varying laws and regulations, market demand, and other factors. Here is an analysis of the cannabis markets in some key US states:

1. California: California was one of the first states to legalize medical marijuana in 1996, and recreational use was legalized in 2016. The state has the largest legal cannabis market in the US, with estimated sales of over $3 billion in 2020. However, the market is highly competitive and fragmented, with many small-scale cultivators and retailers. There are also high taxes and regulatory burdens that can make it difficult for businesses to operate.

2. Colorado: Colorado legalized recreational cannabis in 2012, and the state has become a leader in the cannabis industry. The market is relatively mature and well-established, with a range of products and services available. The state has also implemented a relatively low tax rate, which has helped to stimulate growth in the industry. However, the market is becoming increasingly competitive, and some businesses are struggling to differentiate themselves.

3. Oregon: Oregon legalized recreational cannabis in 2014, and the state has a thriving cannabis market. However, the market is oversaturated, with a surplus of cannabis that has driven down prices and made it difficult for many cultivators to stay in business. The state also has relatively high taxes and regulatory requirements, which can make it challenging for small businesses to operate.

4. Washington: Washington legalized recreational cannabis in 2012, and the state has a well-established cannabis market. However, the market is tightly regulated, and there are relatively few licenses available, which has led to high prices and limited competition. The state also has high taxes, which can make it difficult for businesses to be profitable.

5. Massachusetts: Massachusetts legalized recreational cannabis in 2016, and the state has a relatively new and developing market. The market is highly regulated, and there are relatively few licenses available, which has led to high prices and limited competition. However, the state has a relatively large population and a high demand for cannabis products, which has helped to stimulate growth in the industry.

Overall, the cannabis markets in different US states can vary significantly based on factors such as regulation, taxation, and competition. As the industry continues to evolve and expand, it will be interesting to see how these markets develop and change over time.

Wiped-Film Short-Path Distillation (WFSPD) is a specialized distillation technique used in various industries, primarily for the separation and purification of high-boiling point and heat-sensitive materials. It’s particularly useful for compounds that are sensitive to temperature and exposure to air, as it operates under conditions that minimize these factors.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Distillation Setup: A wiped-film short-path distillation system consists of a cylindrical vessel with a heating mantle, a rotating wiper system, and a condenser. The vessel is typically heated with a controlled temperature mantle.

2. Feed Introduction: The feed material, which could be a mixture of different compounds, is introduced into the top of the vessel.

3. Thin Film Formation: The rotating wiper system creates a thin film of the feed material on the inner surface of the vessel. This thin film increases the surface area available for vaporization and condensation, facilitating efficient separation.

4. Evaporation: As the thin film moves down the heated surface, the heat causes the volatile components of the feed to evaporate. These vapors rise and move towards the condenser.

5. Condensation: The condenser cools down the vapor, causing it to condense back into liquid form. This condensed liquid, known as the distillate, is collected separately.

6. Fractional Separation: The distillation process separates the different components of the feed based on their boiling points. The components with lower boiling points will evaporate first and be collected as the distillate, while the higher boiling point components remain in the residue.

7. Residue Collection: The residue, which is the portion of the feed that hasn’t evaporated, collects at the bottom of the vessel.

The key advantage of wiped-film short-path distillation is that it operates at reduced pressures and short distances between the evaporation and condensation stages. This minimizes the exposure of the separated components to high temperatures and reduces the chances of thermal degradation or decomposition. Additionally, the thin film created by the wiper system promotes efficient heat transfer and enhances separation efficiency.

This technique is widely used in the pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and essential oil industries, among others, for applications such as purifying natural extracts, concentrating flavors, and producing high-purity compounds. It’s especially valuable when working with compounds that are sensitive to heat, such as cannabinoids from cannabis plants or essential oils from herbs.

Creating cannabis-derived products, including cannabis distillate oil, requires compliance with local laws and regulations, as well as adherence to safe and ethical practices. Cannabis is a legal agricultural product in many places, but the legality can vary depending on your location. Always ensure you are following local laws and regulations.

Assuming you are in a legal jurisdiction, here is a general overview of the process of making cannabis distillate oil:

1. Harvest and Extraction: Cannabis plants are harvested and the THC & CBD rich flowers are collected. THC & CBD (tetrahydrocannabinol &cannabidiol) is the primary compound of interest in cannabis & hemp distillate oil. Extraction methods such as supercritical CO2 extraction or ethanol extraction are commonly used to separate the CBD and other valuable compounds from the plant material.

2. Winterization: The extracted oil is then subjected to a process called winterization. This involves mixing the oil with ethanol and freezing it to separate waxes and lipids from the THC rich solution.

3. Filtration: The winterized solution is filtered to remove the waxes and other undesired compounds, leaving behind a cleaner extract.

4. Decarboxylation: The filtered extract is heated to a specific temperature to activate the cannabinoids. Raw cannabis or hemp typically contains THC-A and CBD-A (the acidic form of THC & CBD) which is converted to THC & CBD through decarboxylation. This step is crucial to ensure that the THC & CBD is in its active form.

5. Distillation: The decarboxylated extract is then subjected to a distillation process. Distillation involves heating the extract and separating its components based on their boiling points. This helps isolate specific cannabinoids and remove impurities, resulting in a purer, more concentrated oil.

6. Testing: At various stages throughout the process, the oil should be tested for cannabinoid content, potency, and any contaminants. Third-party lab testing is important to ensure the quality and safety of the final product.

7. Formulation: Depending on the intended use, the hemp distillate oil can be formulated into various products, such as tinctures, capsules, topicals, or vape cartridges. Additional ingredients like carrier oils or flavorings might be added during this step.

8. Packaging and Distribution: Once the oil is formulated, it’s packaged in suitable containers and prepared for distribution to consumers.

Please note that this is a simplified overview of the process, and there are many technical details and considerations involved in each step. If you’re interested in producing cannabis or hemp derived products, it’s important to conduct thorough research, follow legal regulations, and consider seeking advice from experts in the field, such as Root Sciences. Always prioritize safety, quality, and compliance with local laws and regulations.