Since the freebase DMT is insoluble in water, couldn't it be removed by filtration after basification, avoiding the need to be dissolved? This seems like it would save quite a bit of time but I've never heard of anyone doing this. Why is that?

have you tried it?
after you basify it, do you notice anything in the solution that suggests you could actually filter the alkaloids out?

I have not tried basifying without solvent present. Since I'm between batches, I was hoping to get a little theoretical insight on the issue before experimenting.

Look up the 'water only tek' in the sustainable nexus subforum. There were some experiments, the person starting it claimed success, several other people tried and failed.

Btw not to nitpick but just to prevent misunderstandings in the future, water is also a solvent.. What you mean is 'extraction without a non-polar solvent'

Be well and let us know if you experiment in the future!

Well I was referring to the extracting of the DMT from the water. Anyway, thanks- I shall hopefully be able to experiment soon.

dmt, like caffeine, is a mostly nonpolar alkaloid; thus, acid-base protonation and deprotonation of its amine group is the most practical approach...this allows for it to be separated from other unwanted plant cellular components.

if you just do a hot water extraction like brewing coffee or tea, you'll get a lot more than just alkaloids and tannins.

That makes sense.