CBD has grown into a popular herbal supplement, yet many consumers don’t know how CBD extract is actually produced. There are several ways to extract CBD from the hemp plant, including carbon dioxide extraction, hydrocarbon extraction, natural solvent extraction, and steam distillation. A newer method gaining momentum is warm water ultrasound extraction—but how does it compare to other approaches?
The Medicinal Community and Ultrasonic Extraction
Ultrasonic extraction is increasingly viewed as an advanced and efficient method for obtaining therapeutic cannabinoids from hemp. This method is valued because it is a clean extraction process that leaves no solvent residue. As technology evolves, more companies in the medicinal cannabis industry are investing in ultrasonic systems due to their precision and efficiency.
Early Ethanol Extraction Methods
In the early stages of CBD extraction, ethanol was commonly used. While effective, ethanol extraction relies on chemical solvents that can leave behind unwanted residue if not carefully refined. Modern ultrasonic extractors minimize these concerns and provide more refined extraction potential.
Ultrasound Extraction Price Comparison
Ultrasonic extractors—also called ultrasonic emulsifiers—are becoming widely adopted due to their ability to offer strong performance at a relatively accessible cost. They are especially advantageous for small to medium-sized manufacturers who want to improve extraction output while maintaining budget-friendly operations.
How Does Ultrasound Extraction Work?
Warm water ultrasonic extraction uses ultrasonic sound waves (sonication) to draw cannabinoids from plant fibers. Because the process can use water instead of chemical solvents, it is considered environmentally friendly and clean.
The method is fast, taking only minutes compared to other extraction processes which may take hours or even days. Many ultrasonic extractor models can also be adapted to work with solvents including CO2, water, coconut oil, olive oil, ethanol, and warm water.
No Heat Extraction
Unlike many traditional extraction methods, ultrasound extraction does not depend on high heat. Extreme heat can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, impacting potency and effectiveness. Warm water ultrasound extraction stays at low thermal levels—typically under 140°F (60°C)—helping preserve beneficial compounds.
Breaking Through Cellular Walls
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are hydrophobic, meaning they resist mixing with water. Breaking through the hemp plant cell walls has historically required harsh solvents. Ultrasonic extraction solves this challenge through intense pressure and microscopic liquid agitation.
A probe is inserted into a liquid mixture and emits high- and low-pressure sound waves up to 20,000 times per second. This creates tiny bubbles that rapidly expand and collapse—a process known as cavitation—which breaks open the plant’s cell walls and releases cannabinoids into an emulsion.
Ultrasonic Emulsion Creates High Concentrations
Ultrasonic emulsification may be combined with other extraction methods to increase efficiency and potency. Liposomal encapsulation can further enhance bioavailability by helping cannabinoids disperse evenly into water-based solutions.
CO2 Extraction vs. Ultrasound Extraction
CO2 extraction is one of the most widely used and highly respected extraction methods. It is eco-friendly and solvent-free, producing high cannabinoid yields while protecting terpenes and plant compounds. However, supercritical CO2 extraction requires costly, highly specialized lab equipment and can deliver lower yields than warm water ultrasound extraction.
Steam Distillation Extraction
Steam distillation is a low-cost, solvent-free method, but is known to be less efficient. The heat involved can also damage volatile terpenes and reduce extract quality.
Natural Extraction Methods
Natural solvent extraction can leave behind a pronounced chlorophyll flavor and often results in lower CBD concentrations. While inexpensive, these methods may sacrifice product quality.
Why Warm Water Ultrasound Extraction Is Gaining Popularity
Warm water ultrasound extraction offers many advantages: fast processing time, low heat, solvent-free operation, preservation of terpenes and cannabinoids, and high potency. It is increasingly becoming a preferred manufacturing approach for brands looking to improve quality and sustainability.
If you are seeking CBD products produced with clean, solvent-free extraction techniques, consider exploring Also Organics products, which are crafted using warm water ultrasound extraction.