Abstract: The present invention is directed to supercritical fluid extraction systems that provide methods of extraction that further reduce total extraction time and improve yield efficiency as compared with existing methods. Such systems and methods utilize substantially increased pressures and flow rates that afford high intensity targeting of extractable material using supercritical carbon dioxide. Surprisingly, the present invention has identified and demonstrated dramatic improvements in the rate and efficiency of dissolution of the target compounds by increasing the pressure of supercritical fluid extraction systems to several times industry standards (e.g., 1000 bar versus 150-300 bar).