The Cannabinoid Compendium

Cannabinoid extraction is the process of separating the plant’s active compounds—cannabinoids, terpenes, lipids, waxes, and other secondary metabolites—from raw hemp material. The method used determines whether these compounds remain intact or are altered during processing.

Supercritical CO₂ extraction uses carbon dioxide at high pressure and temperature, where it behaves as both a liquid and a gas. This allows for precise targeting of specific cannabinoids and produces a clean extract with minimal solvent residue. However, the elevated temperatures required can reduce volatile terpenes and alter delicate acid-form cannabinoids.

Subcritical CO₂ extraction operates at lower temperatures and pressures than supercritical CO₂. This gentler approach preserves more of the plant’s native terpene profile and acidic cannabinoids while still maintaining precision and purity. For many formulations, this method offers a better balance between selectivity and molecular preservation.

Cryogenic ethanol extraction uses food-grade organic alcohol at sub-zero temperatures. This process rapidly captures a broad spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, lipids, waxes, and pigments while minimizing thermal degradation. When performed correctly, cryo-ethanol preserves the “whole-plant” resin without stripping away structurally important compounds.

Different molecules require different conditions to remain stable. No single extraction method is ideal for all cannabinoids or formulations. We select the extraction method based on the target compounds and the intended physiological outcome, rather than forcing every product through a single industrial process.

Distillation is a refinement process that uses controlled heat, vacuum, and time to separate cannabinoids by boiling point. It produces highly concentrated and standardized extracts, which can be valuable for applications requiring precise cannabinoid isolation, long shelf stability, or and when necessary zero detectable THC.

Because distillation relies on heat and extended processing, it can reduce or remove volatile compounds such as terpenes and convert acidic cannabinoids into their neutral forms. While this results in uniformity and consistency, it also simplifies the original chemical complexity of the plant.

Yes. Isolates play an important role for individuals who must avoid THC entirely or who require a single, well-defined compound. In these cases, isolates can be an effective and appropriate solution.

Foci, Sezi, Reposa, and Pet Soundz are formulated using distillate, which is refined for consistency and a smoother sensory profile. Distillation typically yields a lower terpene profile than whole-resin extracts and includes cannabinoids in their decarboxylated (“active”) forms. These products are designed for customers who prefer a cleaner taste and a more standardized cannabinoid experience.

Cold processing reduces exposure to heat, light, and oxygen—factors that can alter molecular structure. By keeping temperatures low throughout extraction and refinement, more cannabinoids, terpenes, and acid-form compounds remain closer to their natural state.

Cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the body based on their three-dimensional structure. Changes caused by heat or oxidation can alter how these molecules bind to receptors or are metabolized. Preserving molecular integrity helps maintain predictable physiological interactions.

Not inherently. Distillation has valid applications, particularly when a highly specific compound is desired. However, it is not ideal for whole-plant formulations where complexity, synergy, and biological context are critical.

Nature is efficient, but not simplistic. The hemp plant produces cannabinoids, terpenes, lipids, and waxes in precise ratios for a reason. Our extraction philosophy is based on preserving that intelligence rather than flattening it into a single molecule or number.

Cold processing reduces exposure to heat, light, and oxygen—factors that can alter molecular structure. By keeping temperatures low throughout extraction and refinement, more cannabinoids, terpenes, and acid-form compounds remain closer to their natural state.

No single extraction method is universally superior. Each method has strengths depending on the intended outcome. Our approach is to select the process that best preserves the desired compounds while respecting the plant’s original chemistry.

The hemp plant is chemically complex and highly adaptive. Our role is not to override natures complexity, but to work with it—choosing methods that translate the plant’s intelligence into usable form without unnecessary simplification.

Whole-plant extracts retain a broad range of cannabinoids, terpenes, lipids, waxes, and secondary metabolites in ratios similar to those found in the original hemp plant. Rather than isolating or reconstructing individual components, whole-plant extraction prioritizes preservation of the plant’s native chemical context.

Refinement refers to post-extraction processes—such as winterization, filtration, or distillation—used to improve clarity, stability, flavor, or consistency. Refinement exists on a spectrum and can range from minimal to extensive, depending on the desired outcome.

Reconstruction occurs when cannabinoids, terpenes, or other compounds are separated, altered, or removed during processing and later reintroduced to create a specific profile. This approach allows for standardization but may differ from the plant’s original biochemical balance.

In technical terms, adulteration refers to products where the natural composition of the extract has been materially altered beyond refinement. This can include dilution with excessive carrier oils, addition of non-native terpenes, or recombination of isolated compounds to achieve a target potency or flavor.

Our focus is on translating the plant’s existing chemistry rather than redesigning it. While reconstruction can create consistency, we prioritize formulations that preserve the relationships between cannabinoids, terpenes, and lipids as they occur naturally.

CBD isolates have clear applications, particularly for individuals requiring zero THC. However, isolates represent a single molecule removed from its biological context. Whole-plant extracts retain the surrounding compounds that may influence how cannabinoids are absorbed and experienced.

Some isolated cannabinoids exhibit a bell-shaped dose-response, meaning effectiveness may plateau or decrease beyond a certain dose. In contrast, multi-compound extracts often show a broader response range due to synergistic interactions between cannabinoids and other plant compounds.

Color reflects chemical composition. Lighter oils are typically more refined, with chlorophyll and plant waxes removed. Darker resins retain more lipids, pigments, and minerals from the original plant material. Neither is inherently superior; they represent different degrees of refinement.

Lipid-rich extracts retain natural plant fats and waxes. Because cannabinoids are fat-soluble, these lipids can act as intrinsic carriers, potentially supporting absorption and stability without synthetic additives.

Plants respond to environmental conditions. Farming methods that emphasize soil health, biodiversity, and natural stressors can influence the production of secondary metabolites such as terpenes and minor cannabinoids, resulting in a more chemically diverse extract.

Maximizing a single metric—such as potency—often requires simplification. Preservation prioritizes chemical relationships rather than numbers, aligning extraction and formulation with the plant’s inherent complexity.

Different extraction and refinement approaches serve different needs. Understanding how a product is made helps consumers choose formulations aligned with their preferences, sensitivities, and intended use.

Minor cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds produced by the hemp plant in smaller quantities than CBD or THC. These include cannabinoids such as CBG, CBC, CBN, CBDv, THCV, and others that often exist at trace or low concentrations within whole-plant extracts.

Biological systems do not respond solely to dominant compounds. Minor cannabinoids can influence receptor activity, metabolic pathways, and enzymatic interactions, even at low concentrations. Their presence contributes to the overall signaling profile of a whole-plant extract.

Acidic cannabinoids—such as CBDa, THCa, CBGa, and CBCa—are the native forms produced by the hemp plant. These compounds exist prior to heat-induced decarboxylation and often exhibit different biological behavior than their neutral counterparts.

No. Acidic cannabinoids are non-intoxicating. For example, THCa does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC unless it is decarboxylated through heat.

Acidic cannabinoids represent the plant’s original biochemical state. By preserving these compounds, our formulations retain signaling pathways that may be altered or lost during high-heat processing. This approach reflects our commitment to maintaining the plant’s natural intelligence.

Cannabigerol (CBG) originates from CBGa, the precursor molecule from which most other cannabinoids are synthesized. Because of this role, CBG is often referred to as the “mother cannabinoid” and plays a foundational role in whole-plant chemistry.

CBDv (cannabidivarin) is a naturally occurring “varin” cannabinoid with a shorter carbon chain than CBD. This structural difference alters how it interacts with receptors and enzymes, contributing to distinct physiological effects.

Cannabichromene (CBC) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid believed to support synergistic interactions within multi-cannabinoid formulations, particularly in relation to inflammatory and neural signaling pathways.

Cannabinol (CBN) is produced through the natural oxidation of THC over time. It is often described as an “aged” cannabinoid and is associated with more physically grounding effects compared to freshly extracted profiles.

Our acidic blends contain trace amounts of numerous minor cannabinoids—both identified and not yet fully characterized. While present in small quantities, these compounds contribute to the overall chemical context of the extract and may influence how the primary cannabinoids are absorbed and experienced.

The hemp plant produces hundreds of compounds, many of which exist at concentrations below routine detection thresholds. Analytical science continues to evolve, and new cannabinoids and metabolites are still being discovered.

Rather than isolating and controlling every variable, we design formulations that preserve complexity. This approach acknowledges that biological systems evolved alongside complex plant chemistries, not simplified single-molecule inputs.

Yes. Delta-8 THC occurs naturally in hemp at trace levels as part of the plant’s normal biosynthetic pathways. These quantities are not sufficient for direct commercial extraction and are distinct from chemically converted Delta-8 products.

Focusing on one molecule assumes complete understanding of a system that is still being mapped. Whole-plant formulations respect the possibility that interactions between known and unknown compounds contribute meaningfully to physiological outcomes.

Minor and trace cannabinoids should be viewed as part of a larger informational network rather than isolated actives. Their presence reflects how closely a product mirrors the original plant chemistry.

Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a compound that is absorbed into the bloodstream and made available for physiological activity. In cannabinoid products, bioavailability is influenced not only by dose, but by formulation, molecular structure, and route of administration.

Cannabinoids are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve more readily in fats than in water. This property affects how they move through the digestive system, cross cell membranes, and interact with lipid-based biological systems such as the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

When cannabinoids remain embedded within their native plant lipids and waxes, they are presented to the body in a familiar biochemical format. These lipids can act as natural carriers, supporting membrane integration and transport without the need for synthetic emulsifiers.

The ECS is a regulatory network found throughout mammals that helps maintain internal balance (homeostasis). It consists of receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2), endogenous cannabinoids, and enzymes that regulate signaling across immune, neurological, and metabolic systems.

Plant cannabinoids resemble endogenous cannabinoids produced by the body. This structural similarity allows phytocannabinoids to interact with ECS receptors and related signaling pathways, influencing physiological processes without acting as foreign compounds.

First-pass metabolism occurs when compounds consumed orally are processed by the liver before entering systemic circulation. During this process, a significant portion of cannabinoids can be metabolized or altered, reducing the amount that reaches circulation in its original form.

Sublingual and mucosal absorption allow cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream through tissues under the tongue and in the mouth. This pathway partially bypasses first-pass metabolism, preserving more of the original cannabinoid and terpene profile.

Nano or water-soluble formulations use mechanical or emulsification techniques to reduce cannabinoids into extremely small particles that can disperse in water. This allows cannabinoids to be absorbed through aqueous pathways rather than relying primarily on fat digestion.

Because water-soluble cannabinoids can be absorbed more rapidly through the oral mucosa and digestive lining, they typically produce a faster onset compared to traditional oil-based products. This quicker absorption allows the body to register effects sooner, often within minutes rather than hours.

Oil-based extracts engage lipid digestion pathways and integrate gradually into the endocannabinoid system. Nano formulations interact more immediately with fluid-based transport systems, offering a different sensory and physiological experience. Neither approach is superior; they serve different purposes depending on individual needs and timing.

The nervous system responds dynamically to different inputs. Alternating between oil-based, terpene-rich extracts and water-soluble formulations allows individuals to observe how their system responds to slower, deeper integration versus faster, more immediate signaling. This can support a personalized approach to balance rather than a fixed routine.

Physiological balance is multi-layered. Reducing inflammatory signaling, restoring mineral availability, and supporting efficient cellular communication all influence the body’s internal electrical and biochemical environment. Different cannabinoid delivery systems interact with these layers in distinct ways, contributing to an overall process of regulation rather than a single directional effect.

No. Nano formulations do not replace traditional extracts; they complement them. Whole-plant oils provide depth, duration, and biochemical context, while nano products offer speed and accessibility. Together, they form a broader toolkit for interacting with the endocannabinoid system.

Because human physiology is not static. We design multiple delivery systems to meet different states, sensitivities, and timing needs—allowing individuals to engage with cannabinoids in a way that supports adaptability rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach.

Milligram content alone does not determine physiological effect. Molecular integrity, compound synergy, lipid carriers, and absorption pathways all influence how cannabinoids are experienced. Two products with identical cannabinoid numbers can behave very differently in the body.

The entourage effect refers to synergistic interactions between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds. Rather than acting independently, these molecules can influence receptor binding, enzymatic breakdown, and transport, shaping the overall response.

In multi-compound formulations, synergistic interactions can broaden the effective dose range. This means physiological response may increase more gradually and remain stable across a wider range of intake compared to isolated compounds.

Terpenes influence membrane permeability, enzyme activity, and receptor signaling. Some terpenes may help cannabinoids cross biological barriers more efficiently or modulate how long they remain active in the system.

The gut contains a dense network of immune cells, neurons, and ECS receptors. Signaling between the gut and brain—often referred to as the gut–brain axis—plays a role in mood, immune response, and stress regulation. Cannabinoids, particularly those interacting with CB2 and non-CB receptors, may influence this communication.

Whole-plant formulations preserve the biochemical context in which cannabinoids evolved. By maintaining relationships between cannabinoids, terpenes, and lipids, these formulations align more closely with the ECS’s lipid-based signaling architecture.

Not necessarily. Complexity does not equate to intensity. Instead, it supports balance, modulation, and adaptability within physiological systems—qualities that are difficult to achieve with single-molecule inputs alone.

Bioavailability should be considered alongside formulation type, personal sensitivity, and intended use. Understanding how a product is designed to interact with the body can be more informative than focusing on potency alone.