CBD distillate crystallization: How to Restore Liquidity

CBD distillate has gained widespread popularity in the wellness and cannabis industries due to its purity, versatility, and high concentration of cannabidiol (CBD). Whether used in tinctures, edibles, vapes, or topicals, CBD distillate offers numerous benefits, making it a preferred choice for many. However, as CBD distillate is a concentrated oil, it can undergo a process known as crystallization, leading to a solid form that is difficult to work with. If you’ve encountered crystallized CBD distillate, don’t panic! There are ways to return it to its liquid state for easier use. In this blog, we’ll explore why CBD distillate crystallizes and provide solutions for restoring it back to its original liquid form.

What is CBD Distillate?

Before we dive into crystallization, let’s first clarify what CBD distillate is. CBD distillate is a refined cannabis extract that has undergone a distillation process to isolate and concentrate CBD. This process removes unwanted compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids, leaving behind a pure form of CBD with a high potency (often 90% or higher).

Because CBD distillate is so concentrated, it’s highly effective in smaller doses. It is also odorless and tasteless, which makes it ideal for a wide range of products. While it is a liquid in its natural state, it can change consistency due to temperature fluctuations and exposure to air. One common issue that users encounter with CBD distillate is crystallization.

What Causes CBD Distillate to Crystallize?

CBD distillate crystallization occurs when the CBD molecules within the distillate form solid crystals. This can happen for several reasons, primarily related to the chemical composition and temperature of the distillate. Understanding why crystallization occurs can help prevent it in the future.

1.      CBD’s Chemical Nature: CBD is a naturally occurring compound in cannabis, and like other cannabinoids, it has a tendency to crystallize under certain conditions. While distillation removes most impurities, it cannot prevent CBD’s inherent characteristics. In its pure form, CBD is a crystalline substance, and when exposed to the right conditions, it will crystallize.

2.      Temperature: One of the main reasons for crystallization is a drop in temperature. CBD distillate tends to stay in a liquid state at higher temperatures, but as the temperature cools down, the CBD molecules can begin to aggregate and form solid crystals. This is especially true if the distillate is stored in a cooler environment or if the oil is exposed to drastic temperature changes.

3.      High CBD Concentration: CBD distillate is highly concentrated. This high level of CBD means there’s a greater likelihood of crystallization because the concentrated form of CBD has fewer impurities to disrupt the crystallization process. Essentially, the more concentrated the distillate, the more likely it is to crystallize.

4.      Exposure to Air: Crystallisation can also result from oxygen exposure. Long-term air exposure can affect CBD distillate's chemical composition. These alterations may promote crystallization.

Is Crystallization a Problem?

While crystallization might seem like a serious issue, it’s important to note that crystallized CBD distillate is not harmful. The crystallization process does not affect the potency of the CBD, so the therapeutic effects remain the same. The primary concern is the difficulty in using the crystallized form, as it becomes solid and challenging to administer.

Crystallization can be inconvenient, especially if you need the distillate to make tinctures, vape cartridges, or other products. However, there are solutions available to return the CBD distillate to its liquid state without compromising its potency or quality.

How to Get Your CBD Distillate Back to Liquid Form

If your CBD distillate has crystallized, don't worry! There are several methods you can use to restore it to a liquid form. Below are the most effective techniques:

1. Warm Water Method

The warm water method is one of the simplest and most effective ways to re-liquefy crystallized CBD distillate. By gently warming the distillate, the CBD crystals will dissolve back into a liquid state. Here's how to do it:

·         Use a glass jar or beaker to hold heated water. CBD degrades at high temperatures, so avoid boiling water.

·         Place the jar of crystallized CBD distillate into the warm water, ensuring that the water level is just below the top of the jar to prevent water from getting into the distillate.

·         Let the jar sit in the warm water for 15-30 minutes, occasionally swirling it gently.

·         Check the consistency of the distillate. Once it has fully liquefied, remove the jar from the water and allow it to cool before using it again.

2. Double Boiler Method

A double boiler method is another effective technique for warming up CBD distillate. It provides more control over the temperature, reducing the risk of overheating the oil and degrading its quality. To use the double boiler method:

·         Fill the lower compartment of the double boiler with water and position it on the stove at a low heat setting.

·         Place the jar or container with the crystallized CBD distillate in the top part of the double boiler.

·         Allow the heat from the water to warm the distillate for 10-15 minutes gently.

·         Stir the CBD distillate occasionally to ensure the crystallized CBD dissolves evenly.

·         Once the distillate is fully liquid again, remove the container from the double boiler and allow it to cool before use.

3. Use a Hair Dryer (Low Heat)

For those looking for a quick and easy solution, using a hair dryer on low heat can also help re-liquefy CBD distillate. Here’s how:

·         Place the crystallized CBD distillate in a glass or silicone container that can withstand heat.

·         Hold a hair dryer approximately 6 inches away from the container and blow warm air over the crystallized oil.

·         Move the hair dryer around the container to evenly heat the oil. The distillate should start to melt within a few minutes.

·         Once the oil has returned to a liquid state, stop applying heat and allow it to cool before use.

4. Store at Room Temperature

To prevent future crystallization, storing CBD distillate at a consistent room temperature is key. Extreme fluctuations in temperature can trigger crystallization, so keeping your distillate in a stable, moderately warm environment can help maintain its liquid state. Avoid storing it in cold areas like a refrigerator or freezer, as this can promote crystallization.

5. Add a Carrier Oil

If you are consistently dealing with crystallization, you might consider adding a carrier oil to your CBD distillate to help maintain a liquid consistency. Carrier oils such as MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or coconut oil can dilute the distillate and prevent it from becoming too thick or solid. Adding a small amount of carrier oil can make your distillate easier to work with and also provide additional health benefits.

Conclusion

A strong, flexible extract, CBD distillate can crystallize if not handled properly, like any concentrated oil. Crystallization, caused by temperature variations, high CBD concentration, or air exposure, doesn't affect CBD potency but makes the extract harder to utilize. Fortunately, the warm water, double boiler, and hair dryer procedures can liquidize crystallized CBD distillate. These easy methods can restore your CBD distillate to its natural state so you may use it in your health routines.