CO2 Extracts

CO₂ extracts are botanical extracts produced using carbon dioxide (CO₂) as the extraction medium, typically in a supercritical or subcritical state. Under controlled temperature and pressure, CO₂ behaves like both a gas and a liquid, allowing it to penetrate plant material efficiently and dissolve targeted compounds.
After extraction, the CO₂ is released back to a gaseous state, leaving behind a concentrated extract with no residual solvent.

Key Advantages of CO₂ Extracts

1) Solvent-free & clean

CO₂ extracts are free from organic solvent residues (such as ethanol or hexane). This makes them especially attractive for cosmetic, nutraceutical, and premium food applications, where purity is critical.

2) Selective extraction

By adjusting pressure and temperature, CO₂ extraction can be tuned to selectively pull specific compounds (e.g., terpenes, lipophilic actives) while leaving unwanted components behind. This offers greater control over extract composition.

3) Preserves sensitive compounds

CO₂ extraction is performed at relatively low temperatures, helping preserve heat-sensitive and volatile constituents that may degrade during traditional solvent or high-heat processes.

4) Concentrated & full-spectrum profiles

CO₂ extracts often retain a broader spectrum of plant compounds, closer to the plant’s natural profile, while still being highly concentrated.

5) No solvent removal step

Since CO₂ naturally separates after extraction, there is no need for solvent evaporation, reducing processing steps and potential degradation.

6) Preferred for premium formulations

CO₂ extracts are commonly chosen for high-value cosmetics, aromatherapy, fragrance bases, and specialty nutraceutical formulations, where clean-label positioning and performance matter.