The world of cannabis concentrates can feel overwhelming, especially for new users. With so many products and terms to learn, it’s easy to feel lost. But don’t worry—this guide breaks it all down for you, so you can walk into any dispensary with confidence.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are highly potent products made by extracting cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes from the cannabis plant. They’re known for their strength, flavor, and versatility, offering a more intense experience compared to traditional flower.
Popular Types of Cannabis Concentrates
1. Wax
- What it is: A soft, pliable concentrate with a waxy texture.
- How it’s used: Commonly used for dabbing or vaping.
- Why it’s popular: Wax is flavorful and easy to handle, making it great for beginners.
2. Shatter
- What it is: A glass-like concentrate that “shatters” when broken.
- How it’s used: Often dabbed using a rig.
- Why it’s popular: Shatter offers high potency and a clean, smooth flavor profile.
3. Live Resin
- What it is: A concentrate made from freshly harvested, flash-frozen cannabis plants.
- How it’s used: Commonly dabbed or added to vape cartridges.
- Why it’s popular: Live resin preserves the plant’s natural terpenes, resulting in enhanced flavor and aroma.
4. Rosin
- What it is: A solventless concentrate created by applying heat and pressure to the cannabis plant.
- How it’s used: Typically dabbed, but can also be used in joints or bowls.
- Why it’s popular: Rosin is a clean, chemical-free option for concentrate enthusiasts.
5. Crumble
- What it is: A dry, crumbly concentrate that’s easy to work with.
- How it’s used: Ideal for sprinkling into joints or bowls, as well as dabbing.
- Why it’s popular: Its texture makes it user-friendly and versatile.
6. Distillate
- What it is: A purified oil containing a single cannabinoid, such as THC or CBD.
- How it’s used: Found in vape cartridges, edibles, and tinctures.
- Why it’s popular: Distillate is potent and versatile, offering a wide range of uses.
7. Hash
- What it is: One of the oldest forms of concentrate, made by compressing cannabis trichomes.
- How it’s used: Smoked in pipes, mixed with flower, or added to joints.
- Why it’s popular: Hash has a rich history and offers a unique experience.
Common Terms in the World of Concentrates
- Terpenes: Organic compounds responsible for a plant’s flavor and aroma. High-terpene concentrates offer enhanced taste and effects.
- Solvent-Based Extraction: A method that uses chemicals like butane or CO2 to extract cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Solventless: Extraction methods that don’t use chemicals, such as making rosin or dry-sift hash.
- Dabbing: A method of consuming concentrates by heating them on a hot surface and inhaling the vapor.
- THCA Diamonds: A crystalized form of THCA, often paired with a terpene-rich “sauce.” Known for its purity and potency.
How to Choose the Right Concentrate for You
Experience Level:
- Beginners may prefer user-friendly options like wax or crumble.
- Advanced users might enjoy the intensity of live resin or shatter.
Flavor vs. Potency:
- Looking for bold flavors? Go for live resin or rosin.
- Prioritizing strength? Shatter or distillate might be your best bet.
Method of Use:
- For dabbing: Shatter, wax, or live resin are popular choices.
- For smoking: Hash or crumble works well.