Solvent Free vs Solvent based extraction – A Brief introduction
On a theoretical level, both Solvent based and Mechanical extraction techniques can yield Solvent Free herbal extracts through the appropriate execution of three distinct processes:
- First the resin is to be liberated from its herbal source through the use of an environmental and/or chemical stimulation.
- Once liberated the crude resin solution is collected.
- It is then purified, leaving behind a herbal extract free of any residual solvents used in its extraction.
The act of liberating herbal resins from their sources can be easier to achieve through Solvents and solvent based extraction techniques as the use of Chemical solvents can greatly increase the solubility, and ultimately, the remove-ability of resin from its plant source. This is because the family of compounds used in solvent based extraction techniques and the compounds contained within the resin glands of many herbal varieties are similar and thus soluble. Once collected, the solvent must be removed from the extracted solution before it can be considered as a solvent free extract. This is where things tend to get tricky and without some skill and a little know how it can be difficult to achieve.
On the other hand, Mechanical extraction techniques do not require the use of any chemical solvents during their extraction process. This is because mechanical extracts are produced through the controlled manipulation of the hermetic elements. These elements, in combination with variability in temperature, pressure and movement, create an environment on and around the leaf surfaces of plants that are conducive to the dissociation of resin from its origin.
Once dissociated, the resin is then suspended in a solution of these forces, which readily dissipate leading to a herbal resin extract void of the mechanism used to extract it. This kind of extract is referred to as a Solvent Free extract because the mechanisms used to extract the resin are no longer present in the concentrated solution. Mechanical extraction techniques lend themselves to safer and more practical means of creating Solvent Free herbal extracts allowing for creative problem solving, making the mechanical extraction process more of an art form than a science experiment.
This is an ever changing area of extraction with a wide spectrum of techniques that enable specific outcomes. This is where the art comes in and really lots of time and patience learning how to produce a material that you value enough to vaporize or burn. This leg work can be exciting but it doesn’t have to be a lengthy process. Get in touch with us. Full Melt Filtration is here for the ride and always excited to talk shop.
Give us a call or drop us an email with any questions or concerns you may have with regards to out products, its manufacture or preferred extraction techniques and we will be happy to assist. We also offer bulk pricing as well as custom filtration mesh sizing on all of our products.
To find out more, drop us an email at jayden@FullMeltFiltration.com, WhatsApp or call +27 82 316 5125 and we will be happy to discuss options that will suit you and your situation comfortably.
Have a look at our FullMelt Filtration product pages to view our product range. This is also where you can find the manufacturing and product specs of all of the products we offer.
Also have a look at our resources section for video and other tutorials on how best to operate the equipment and how to get the most out of the experience of collecting your very own herbal extracts.
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