Last updated: June 2026
Most people know CBD comes from hemp — but not many know how it gets from plant to bottle. There are several extraction methods, each with distinct pros and cons for purity, potency and safety. Here’s everything you need to know.
Evopure CBD — CO2-extracted, lab-tested
How is CBD made?
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD oil is made by extracting this compound from hemp — a variety of cannabis containing low levels of THC. For CBD products to be legal in the UK, they must be derived from approved industrial hemp strains and contain no more than 1 mg THC per finished product.
Read more: Hemp vs marijuana
How is CBD extracted?
Extraction separates CBD from plant material — while removing or minimising THC to stay within legal limits. The extract is then refined through winterisation (removing chlorophyll, waxes and lipids) or distillation (isolating and purifying cannabinoids), before being lab-tested and blended with a carrier oil such as MCT or hemp seed oil.
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Take our free quiz and we’ll match you with the right Evopure formula — all products are CO2-extracted with published batch COAs.
Take the free health quiz →5 CBD extraction methods explained
1. CO2 extraction (supercritical)
The gold standard — used by Evopure and other premium brands. Pressurised carbon dioxide acts as a solvent in its “supercritical” state, extracting cannabinoids while preserving delicate plant compounds. Three-chamber process: CO2 is pressurised → hemp is exposed and cannabinoids extracted → mixture separates leaving CBD oil below and CO2 gas above. No toxic residue, stable long shelf life, precise cannabinoid control. Higher production cost contributes to higher retail prices — but is worth it for purity and safety.
Read more: Why is CBD oil so expensive?
2. Liquid solvent extraction
Solvents such as ethanol, butane or propane dissolve plant waxes and release cannabinoids. Quick and inexpensive, but flammable solvents can be hazardous and may extract chlorophyll (causing bitterness) or leave chemical residues if not properly evaporated.
3. Alcohol (ethanol) extraction
A safer solvent alternative. Ethanol effectively separates cannabinoids, then evaporates, leaving a full-spectrum extract. Cost-effective with minimal equipment required — produces a broad cannabinoid and terpene profile. Can also extract chlorophyll and residual alcohol may remain, which can be a concern for some consumers.
Read more: Is CBD oil halal?
4. Olive oil extraction
One of the oldest, safest methods. Plant material is first heated (decarboxylation) to activate cannabinoids, then infused into olive oil. Safe, natural and affordable — ideal for small-scale or DIY use. Low concentration, short shelf life, not suitable for commercial production.
5. Steam distillation
Traditional method passing steam through hemp to separate cannabinoids and essential oils. Non-toxic and solvent-free with no contamination risk. Inefficient versus other methods — requires large amounts of hemp and careful temperature control.
Best CBD extraction method
Supercritical CO2 extraction is widely regarded as the gold standard. It produces the cleanest, safest and most potent extract with precise control over cannabinoid levels — no toxic residue and a full terpene and cannabinoid profile preserved. This is the method Evopure and other quality UK brands use.
Why extraction method matters
The extraction process determines the purity, potency and safety of your CBD product. Poor extraction can leave contaminants or destroy beneficial compounds. When choosing a product, check the Certificate of Analysis (COA) to confirm the extraction method used and verify third-party testing results.
Read more: 7 CBD benefits | How to read CBD lab results
Frequently asked questions
What is CO2 extraction?
A high-tech process using pressurised carbon dioxide to extract cannabinoids without toxic solvents — considered the cleanest, most efficient and safest method.
Is solvent extraction safe?
It can be if performed correctly, but poor manufacturers may leave behind harmful residues. Always check for third-party lab testing confirming no solvent residues.
Does extraction method affect flavour?
Yes. Alcohol and solvent extraction can pull chlorophyll, giving a bitter taste. CO2 extraction produces a milder, cleaner flavour.
Why does extraction method affect CBD price?
CO2 requires specialist equipment and expertise, increasing production costs — but delivers cleaner, safer, more potent products that justify the investment.
CO2-extracted, batch-tested CBD — find your formula
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Take the free health quiz →Final thoughts on CBD extraction methods
Understanding how CBD is extracted helps you choose safe, effective and fairly priced products. While several methods exist, supercritical CO2 extraction remains the industry gold standard. Always check the COA to confirm both the extraction method used and independent test results before buying.
