The Complete Guide to Cannabis Concentrates
As the cannabis industry continues to grow, so does the diversity of cannabis products available to consumers.
One category that has seen a significant rise in popularity is cannabis concentrates. These potent extracts offer users a concentrated form of cannabinoids and terpenes, providing a more intense and efficient experience compared to traditional cannabis consumption methods.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what cannabis concentrates are, their types, production methods and consumption techniques.
What are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts obtained from the cannabis plant that contain a high concentration of cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), as well as other beneficial compounds like terpenes.
These extracts are produced using various techniques to isolate and extract the essential compounds from the plant material, resulting in a highly concentrated form of cannabis.
Types of Cannabis Concentrates
Hashish (Hash): Hashish is one of the oldest and most traditional forms of cannabis concentrate.
It is made by separating the trichomes, which are the resin glands containing cannabinoids and terpenes, from the plant material.
Hash can vary in texture and appearance, including traditional pressed bricks, sticky blocks, or powdery kief.
Shatter: Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate that has a glass-like appearance and texture.
It is created by extracting cannabinoids using solvents like butane or propane.
The end product is an amber-coloured, brittle substance that can "shatter" into pieces when handled.
Wax and Budder: Wax and budder are softer and more malleable concentrates compared to shatter.
They are produced using similar extraction methods but are agitated or whipped during the process, resulting in a wax-like consistency for budder and a crumbly texture for wax.
Live Resin: Live resin is made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from freshly harvested, flash-frozen cannabis plants.
This method preserves the plant's original flavours and aromas, resulting in a more flavorful concentrate.
Rosin: Rosin is a solventless concentrate produced by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flowers.
This process squeezes out the resin, leaving a sticky and potent extract behind.
Oil Cartridges: Cannabis oils are often used to fill cartridges that can be attached to vaporizers or vape pens.
These cartridges contain a concentrated form of cannabis oil that allows for discreet and convenient consumption.
Production Methods
Solvent-Based Extraction: This method involves using solvents like butane, propane, or ethanol to dissolve the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material.
The resulting mixture is then purged of any remaining solvent, leaving behind a concentrate.
Solventless Extraction: Solventless extraction techniques do not involve the use of any chemicals.
Instead, heat and pressure are applied to separate the resin glands from the plant material, producing concentrates like rosin.
CO2 Extraction: CO2 extraction uses pressurized carbon dioxide to strip cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant.
It is considered a safe and efficient method, often used in commercial production.
How to Consume Cannabis Concentrates
Dabbing: Dabbing involves vaporizing a small amount of concentrate using a dab rig, which is a specialized glass or metal device.
The concentrate is applied to a heated surface, producing inhalable vapor.
Vaping: Cannabis concentrates can be used in vaporizer pens or cartridges designed for this purpose.
The concentrate is heated to a temperature that vaporizes the cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion.
Adding to Flower: Some users prefer to sprinkle a small amount of concentrate on top of their regular cannabis flower before smoking it in a joint or pipe, enhancing the overall experience.
Edibles: Cannabis concentrates can also be used in cooking to make homemade edibles, but it is essential to be cautious about dosage due to their potency.