Unfortunately, there isn’t a well-defined cannabis vocabulary. Even the most experienced operators use terms that don’t make sense, so we work hard to use consistent, common sense language to describe the products we make.
Crude Oil
“Crude oil” is an unrefined oil extract. It a full spectrum extract—meaning it has a robust cannabinoid, terpene and flavonoid profile that is closest the plant form. It also includes plant matter that isn’t essential to a premium oil. These oils are typically between 50% to 60% total active cannabinoid, are pungent, thick, and dark in color and are used by processing companies that will refine them further.
Full Spectrum Distillate
“Full spectrum distillates” are crude oils that have undergone additional processing to remove unwanted fats, waxes lipids and other non-essential plant matters. Anecdotally, many consider these to be the most effective cannabis oil form as they include trace amounts of THC. The presence of THC is the primary distinction between full and broad spectrum distillates. These oils are typically 75% to 85% total active cannabinoid and have a golden color.
Broad Spectrum Distillate
True broad spectrum distillates are full spectrum distillates with THC removed. THC removal requires an advanced processing technique that few cannabis companies have mastered - know your supplier's THC mitigation process. We use centrifugal partition chromatography. These oils are typically 70% to 80% total active cannabinoid, golden in color with THC not detectable.
Isolate
Isolate powders have single molecule purities as high 99.9%. They are called isolates because they are isolated molecule formulations. Anecdotally, many consider these to be the least effective cannabis form because they do not include additional cannabinoids and terpenes. However, these are excellent for those who cannot risk being exposed to THC.
