What are cannabis concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are highly potent extracts of the cannabis plant that are popular among those looking for a more intense high. They are made by extracting the active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, and refining them into a more concentrated form. Cannabis concentrates come in various forms, including wax, shatter, oil, and more.
How are cannabis concentrates made?
Cannabis concentrates are made using a variety of extraction methods, such as butane extraction, CO2 extraction, and ethanol extraction. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, but all involve separating the active compounds from the plant material and refining them into a highly concentrated form.
How potent are cannabis concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are highly potent, with THC levels ranging from 50% to over 90%. This makes them much stronger than traditional cannabis flower, which typically has THC levels of around 20%. Because of their potency, cannabis concentrates should be used with caution, especially by those who are new to cannabis or who have a low tolerance.
Types of cannabis concentrates
There are many different types of cannabis concentrates available, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Some of the most popular types of cannabis concentrates include:
Wax
Wax is a type of cannabis concentrate that has a sticky, wax-like consistency. It is made by blasting cannabis flower with butane or another solvent to extract the active compounds, then purging the solvent to leave behind a highly concentrated product. Wax can have THC levels ranging from 50% to over 90%, making it one of the most potent cannabis concentrates available.
Shatter
Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate that has a glass-like, brittle texture. It is made using a similar process to wax, but is purged for a longer period of time to create a more stable, solid product. Shatter can have THC levels ranging from 50% to over 90%, and is often used for dabbing.
Oil
Cannabis oil is a type of cannabis concentrate that is made by extracting the active compounds from the plant using a solvent. The resulting product is a highly concentrated oil that can be used for a variety of purposes, including cooking, vaping, and more. Cannabis oil can have THC levels ranging from 50% to over 90%.
Rosin
Rosin is a type of cannabis concentrate that is made by pressing cannabis flower or hash between two heated plates. The heat and pressure cause the active compounds in the plant to be released, creating a highly concentrated product that can be dabbed or used in other ways. Rosin can have THC levels ranging from 50% to over 80%.
Live resin
Live resin is a type of cannabis concentrate that is made using freshly harvested cannabis plants that have been frozen immediately after harvest. This helps to preserve the flavor and aroma of the plant, creating a highly potent and flavorful concentrate. Live resin can have THC levels ranging from 50% to over 80%.
How to use cannabis concentrates
Cannabis concentrates can be used in a variety of ways, including:
Dabbing
Dabbing is a popular method of using cannabis concentrates that involves heating the concentrate on a hot surface, then inhaling the resulting vapor through a water pipe or dab rig. Dabbing is highly potent and should be used with caution.
Vaping
Vaping is another popular method of using cannabis concentrates, and involves heating the concentrate in a vaporizer to create a smooth, flavorful vapor that can be inhaled. Vaping is less potent than dabbing, but still provides a strong high.
Edibles
Cannabis concentrates can also be used to create edibles, such as brownies, cookies, and more. Because concentrates are highly potent, it is important to use them carefully when creating edibles to avoid accidentally over-dosing.
Conclusion
Cannabis concentrates are a highly potent and popular form of cannabis that offer a wide range of benefits and uses. From wax and shatter to oil and rosin, there are many different types of concentrates available to suit any preference. However, because of their high potency, cannabis concentrates should be used with caution, especially by those who are new to cannabis or who have a low tolerance. By following best practices and using cannabis concentrates responsibly, you can enjoy all the benefits they have to offer while minimizing the risks.
