There is quite a bit of news about cannabis , but there are so many different terms being bandied about, it is easy to become confused. This will hopefully, clear up some of the confusion.

What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant with a stiff upright stem that grows wild in many tropical areas of the world but can also be grown in almost any climate.   There are two main ingredients in the plant; Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

What is the difference between CBD and THC?
Cannabidiol (CBD), is the part of the cannabis plant that doesn’t get you “high”.  CBD is used to combat a variety of health issues including: Crohn’s disesase, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Diabetes, Cancer among others. CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce the high typically associated with marijuana use. THC, may produce the “high” typically associated with cannabis.  THC has also shown to reduce nausea and have a mild-to moderate analgesic (pain-killing) effect because it alters the neurotransmitter release in the spinal cord.  THC while inducing a relaxed state may have other effects on hearing, smell, eyesight, and may induce fatigue.

How Large is the Market?
The CBD Report a 42 page document focusing on research, market intelligence, investment analysis, survey results, data and insights, released by The Hemp Business Journal shows cannabidiol as one of the fastest growing market categories in the United States. It is projecting by 2020 the CBD market will grow to a $2.1 Billion market with U.S. Hemp-Based CBD Product Sales to be $450 million.

There are a total of 29 states, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico now allow for comprehensive public medical marijuana and cannabis programs. There are 16 states that allow the use of low THC, high cannabidiol (CBD) products for medical reasons.

According to Matt Karnes of Greenwave Advisors, “In terms of the CBD market size, I estimate an almost $3 billion market by 2021. Right now there are 15 states that allow CBD only — this is in addition to the 28 states plus DC that have legalized medical marijuana.”

So how do you go from plant to oil?

Obtaining the oil from the plant requires a process called extraction.  There are different processes used to extract the oil, but the most popular methods include:  Water Distillation, Steam Distillation, CO2 Extraction, Solvent Extraction, Macerations and Cold Press Extraction.  There are many options available when it comes to locating a source for oil extraction equipment.

Why use Chillers?

Chillers are utilized in the extraction process to rapidly lower and maintain low temperatures in the extraction vessels which in turn improves the speed and efficiency of the extraction process.  Extraction Chillers from BV Thermal Systems are economical, highly efficient and environmentally-friendly.  Our Extraction Chillers have a standard temperature range of -40° to 27°C and are capable of maintaining accurate temperature control even in the harshest environmental conditions.