How to Make Full Extract Cannabis Oil: A Masterclass in Potency and Purity

The art of crafting full extract cannabis oil (FECO) isn’t just a science—it’s a ritual. Whether you’re a medical patient seeking relief or a connoisseur chasing precision, mastering this process unlocks a world of therapeutic and recreational potential. But with misinformation rampant, let’s cut through the noise. This isn’t a backyard DIY project; it’s a meticulous dance between chemistry and craftsmanship.

Why Full Extract Cannabis Oil? The Unmatched Power of Full-Spectrum

Unlike isolated CBD or THC products, FECO retains the plant’s full profile: cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This synergy, known as the entourage effect, amplifies therapeutic benefits. A 2021 study in Frontiers in Pharmacology confirms full-spectrum extracts enhance pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties compared to isolates.

Key Takeaway: Full-spectrum oil isn’t a trend—it’s bioengineering at its finest.

Step 1: Strain Selection – Your Blueprint for Success

Your oil’s effects hinge on your starting material. For a balanced experience, hybrid strains like Super Sour Diesel offer euphoria and pain relief. For sleep, indica-dominant Afghan Kush delivers heavy relaxation.

Pro Tip:

THC Dominant: Chronic pain, insomnia
CBD Rich: Anxiety, inflammation
1:1 Ratios: Neuropathic conditions

Step 2: Decarboxylation – Activating the Magic

Cannabinoids in raw cannabis exist as acidic precursors (e.g., THCA, CBDA). Decarboxylation heats them to active THC and CBD (Royal Queen Seeds).

Preheat your oven to 110 °C.
Grind 140 g of dried flower to a coarse consistency.
Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Bake for 30 minutes, stirring gently at 15 minutes.
Cool completely before extraction.

Decarbing at lower temps preserves terpenes and reduces flavor loss (Emily Kyle, MS, RDN).

Step 3: Extraction Methods – Solvent vs. Solventless

Method	Pros	Cons	Best For
Ethanol	Fast, efficient, full-spectrum	Harsh on terpenes	High-volume medical users
CO2	Pure, solvent-free	Expensive equipment	Commercial producers
Olive Oil	Safe, kitchen-friendly	Weak potency, short shelf-life	Beginners, mild effects

Our Pick: Food-grade ethanol (96%) for potency and safety. Avoid isopropyl alcohol—it’s toxic.

Everclear Soak Method

Place decarbed cannabis in a tall mason jar.
Pour enough 190-proof ethanol to fully submerge the plant.
Stir gently for 2–5 minutes to release trichomes (Heal Navigator).
Strain through cheesecloth into a glass Pyrex dish.

Pro Tip: Rinse the jar and plant material with a splash of ethanol to capture final trichomes.

H3: Cold Brew for Smooth Flavor

Steep jar at room temperature for 3 hours up to 1 month for a mellower oil (Royal Queen Seeds).
Shake daily if steeping longer than a few hours.

Step 4: Winterization – Purifying Your Oil

Crude extract contains fats and waxes. Winterization removes them:

Mix extract with 200-proof alcohol.
Freeze for 24 hours.
Filter through a Buchner funnel.

Pro Hack: Use activated charcoal for added purification.

Step 5: Evaporation – The Final Frontier

Scrape the thick, dark oil into a silicone or glass container.
Optionally mix with MCT oil (1:29 ratio) for a tincture consistency (GrowDiaries).
Store in a cool, dark place (refrigeration extends shelf life).

Bold Benefit: Proper storage retains potency for up to 1 year.

Legal Considerations: Navigating the Gray Areas

Legality varies wildly:

UK/US: THC remains federally restricted; CBD is legal under 0.3% THC.
Germany: Medical cannabis legal with prescription.
Asia: Most countries ban all forms.

Always verify local laws before extraction.

Your Burning Questions, Answered

1. Can I use low-quality trim for FECO?
Yes, but potency suffers. Opt for premium buds for medical-grade oil.

2. What’s the shelf life of cannabis oil?
Up to 2 years in amber glass, stored in a cool, dark place.

3. How do I dose accurately?
Start with 5mg THC, wait 2 hours. Use a milligram scale for precision.

4. Can I make FECO without solvents?
Yes, via rosin pressing, but yields are lower.

5. What’s the difference between FECO and CBD oil?
FECO contains THC; CBD oil is THC-free (<0.3%).

For more on ordering quality cannabis online and secure delivery, check out:

Decarboxylation at low heat activates your cannabinoids.

190-proof ethanol yields a full-spectrum extract.

Gentle purging preserves aroma and potency.

Start small; FECO is highly potent.

Store in cool, dark conditions for maximum shelf life.

What’s the difference between FECO and RSO? FECO uses food-grade ethanol, whereas RSO often uses isopropyl alcohol. Ethanol preserves more terpenes and is safer for consumption (AltMed).
Can I use a different solvent? CO₂ and butane are options, but ethanol is most accessible for home extraction ﹣ and food-safe (Secret Garden).
How long does FECO last? Properly stored, it retains potency up to 12 months in a refrigerator (Royal Queen Seeds).
Is FECO legal in my country? Regulations vary. In the UK, you need a prescription; in parts of the US, it may be legal for medical users; always verify local laws (AltMed).
Can I cook with FECO? Absolutely—add to brownies, sauces, or capsules. Blend with a carrier oil for even dosing (GrowDiaries).