What are Cannabis Concentrates? A Complete Guide

Cannabis concentrates have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their potency and versatility. Whether you’re a patient seeking targeted relief or a recreational user looking for an enhanced or different experience, cannabis concentrates offer a highly popular alternative method of consuming cannabis.In this guide, we will explore the world of cannabis concentrates, including their extraction processes, the various types available, and how they can be consumed. By the end of this article, you will have an understanding of what cannabis concentrates are and why they have gained popularity among cannabis enthusiasts.

Understanding Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates are extracts derived from the plant material. These extracts contain high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes—chemical compounds responsible for the therapeutic effects and flavors found in marijuana.

Types of Cannabis Concentrates

There are several different kinds of cannabis concentrates available in the market today, some of which include the following:

1. Hashish:

Hashish (commonly known as hash) is one of the most popular forms of cannabis. It is typically made by extracting trichomes — the resin-filled glands on marijuana flowers — and then compressing them into solid blocks or cakes. Hashish can be directly consumed when used to cook or added to joints or bowls for an enhanced experience.

2. Shatter:

Shatter is renowned for its glassy texture, which is attributed to its high terpene levels. It is created by employing solvents like butane or CO2 to extract cannabinoids from the plant material. The result is an amber substance that easily breaks apart when handled.

3. Wax:

Wax refers to a type of concentrate that undergoes manipulation during extraction to acquire a moist consistency, similar to beeswax or lip balm. It comes in various forms, such as budder (creamy), crumble (brittle), and honeycomb (spongy). Wax exhibits flexibility and enjoys popularity among enthusiasts who prefer dabbing.

4. Live Resin:

Live resin effectively captures the flavors and aromas of cannabis flowers. Unlike concentrates, the process involves freezing the plant material before extraction, thereby preserving its terpene profile. This method results in a product that boasts rich flavors sought after by connoisseurs.

How Are Cannabis Concentrates Made?

The techniques employed in producing cannabis concentrates vary depending on the desired end product, but the common methods of extraction include:

1. Solvent-based Extraction:

Solvents such as butane, CO2, or ethanol are commonly utilized to strip cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. After the extraction process is over, evaporation eliminates any solvent, leaving behind the pure cannabis extract.

2. Solventless Extraction:

The process of solventless extraction involves using techniques such as shaking, pressing, or sifting to separate trichomes from the plant material. This method avoids the use of solvents and helps preserve the natural aroma and flavor of the extract.

How to Consume Cannabis Concentrates?

There are many different ways to consume cannabis concentrates, some of which include the following:

1. Dabbing:

Dabbing entails vaporizing cannabis concentrates by applying them onto a specific surface known as a “nail” or “banger.” The resulting vapor is then inhaled using a dab rig or vaporizer pen designed for concentrate usage.

2. Vaporizing:

Vaporizers heat up concentrates until they reach their boiling point without burning them. This creates a vapor that can be inhaled through a device specifically designed for vaping wax or oils.

3. Infusion:

Concentrates can also be infused into edibles or beverages, providing users with a unique way to experience their effects. However, it’s important to start with small doses when consuming edibles infused with concentrates due to their higher potency.

Conclusion

Cannabis concentrates offer users a range of options for enjoying cannabis in various forms – from dab rigs and vape pens to edibles and topicals. With their higher levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, these concentrated extracts offer a range of effects and flavors, making them a popular option among cannabis enthusiasts. Whether you’re in need of relief for health conditions or are simply interested in discovering new methods of consuming cannabis, now that you have a better understanding of cannabis concentrates, you are prepared to make an educated decision that aligns with your preferences. Just remember to start with small doses and take it slow, especially when trying out these extracts for the first time.