CBD to THC Conversion

Oil obtained through alcohol extraction and purification with petroleum ether contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), two other structurally similar but non-psychoactive compounds (cannabidiol, CBD, and cannabinol, CBN), as well as several other substances that give the oil its flavor and aroma. The amount and quality of THC depend on the potency and effectiveness of the starting material. Oil made from potent buds naturally contains a much higher percentage of THC than oil made from wild hemp stalks. The quality of the THC, as well as the presence of a “high,” is determined by the position of the double bond in the THC molecule. For simplicity, let’s call the “higher-rotating form” and “low-rotating form” as high-potency and low-potency forms, respectively. The key point is that high-potency forms of THC are stronger and provide a more intense, psychedelic effect compared to low-potency forms. Below is a method for conversion.

The amount of cannabidiol (CBD) in the oil is very important, as this compound can be converted into THC, thereby increasing the oil’s potency. Experience shows that the amount of CBD in the oil is at least comparable to the amount of THC, which means the oil’s strength can at least be doubled after isomerization. In some cases, the potency can be increased by 5–6 times.

By using the right chemical reagents and methods for converting CBD to THC, it is possible to convert all the THC (both the original and the newly formed from CBD) into the high-potency form. The best results are achieved with material rich in CBD, which is first isomerized into THC, and then the THC is converted into the high-potency form. As a result, both the strength and quality of the oil are significantly increased. Now, let’s get to the process.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

1. Preparation: It is highly recommended to purify the oil with petroleum ether first. Dissolve the oil in pure, preferably absolute, ethanol at a ratio of 1 gram of oil to 10 grams of solvent. The ethanol can be denatured but must not contain water.
2. Acid Addition: Add one drop of 100% sulfuric acid per gram of oil to the mixture. Add the acid slowly while stirring constantly.
   Warning! Adding acid will cause bubbling and caustic splashes! Always use safety goggles, gloves, a heavy-duty apron, and other protective gear. Store acid with extreme caution.
3. Heating: Make sure you are mixing in a heat-resistant flask (like Pyrex). Place the flask in a water bath and boil with a reflux condenser for 2 hours. Afterward, place the flask in an ice bath and remove the condenser.
4. Extraction: Dilute the mixture 1:1 with water and extract with petroleum ether as follows:
   • Add petroleum ether in an amount equal to half the volume of added water.
   • Place the entire mixture in a container with a screw cap (fill only 2/3 of the container), and seal tightly.
   • Gently invert the container 180 degrees, then immediately return it upright. After a few seconds, when the liquid runs down the sides, slightly open the cap to release pressure.
   • Repeat this process 25 times, releasing pressure each time.
   • Let the mixture sit for about half an hour to separate into three layers. The top layer will contain the purified oil and petroleum ether. Remove the top layer (using a syringe is often easiest).
5. Purification: Important! Do not remove the entire top layer at once. Remove 2/3 of it, then repeat the purification process from the beginning with a new portion of petroleum ether. Repeat this process until the top layer becomes clear, indicating all the oil has been collected.
6. Washing: Dilute the collected oil and petroleum ether solution with four parts water. Place the mixture in a screw-cap container and gently invert about 25 times, releasing pressure each time as before. Separate the top layer and discard the bottom (water) layer.
7. Neutralization: Dilute the top layer with four parts of a 5% aqueous sodium bicarbonate solution (baking soda), mix, and after separation, remove the top layer (again, a syringe works well) and discard the bottom layer. Repeat the previous water washing step twice more with pure water.
8. Final Steps: Evaporate the petroleum ether to collect the oil, which will now be much more potent. This oil will not contain toxins or other impurities and will have the high-potency form of THC.

Tips

• When evaporating the ether, it’s best to collect it with a distiller for reuse. Remember, petroleum ether is extremely volatile and explosive.
• Always use distilled water.