Dabs: Exploring Cannabis Concentrates

What are Cannabis Concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates are created by extracting the most desirable compounds from the cannabis plant – cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes (which give cannabis its unique aromas and flavors). These compounds are extracted, giving you the most potent product possible. This is similar to essential oils extracted from plants, where the oils being produced share the nature of the plant they are extracted from.

Concentrate can come in many forms depending on the user’s preference; this could be a dry product that is easier to handle or a thick viscous oil that would require a steel tool to apply. Think of these different forms like different types of alcohol and the different tools as serving glasses. There are flutes, snifters, rock glass, and so on; each of which is used for a variety of different beverages, all depending on the user’s preference. Extractions can be done with or without solvents, resulting in a highly concentrated product significantly more potent than flower. Potency is a major draw, but it also makes responsible consumption crucial.

Types of Cannabis Concentrates

Let’s explore the diverse landscape of cannabis concentrates:

RSO (Rick Simpson Oil)

This full-spectrum concentrate is an activated oil or what we call a cured resin, meaning that the psychoactive cannabinoid THC is present in this form of extract. In other words, one does not need to heat, vaporize, or smoke RSO to get medicated from it. Unlike most other concentrates, RSO is typically not vaporized or smoked.

Instead, it’s primarily intended for oral use or for producing edibles or tinctures. RSO can be very potent, so it’s crucial to understand the appropriate dose for tinctures or edibles before using them. This is especially important for pure RSO, which is the most concentrated form. Properly understanding how to dose RSO is essential before consumption.

Kief

If you’ve ever opened the bottom of a grinder and got a look at the finely ground flower – you’re looking at kief. The fine, powdery substance is highly potent due to the concentration of cannabinoids. Kief can be used in various ways: sprinkled on top of flower in a bowl or joint, pressed into hash, or even used in edibles. It’s a versatile favorite for many cannabis enthusiasts.

Shatter

Shatter is a concentrate known for its brittle, glass-like texture (hence the name). It has a more complicated creation process, one that sees the oil poured directly onto a long flat sheet after extraction. These sheets are then separated into vacuum purge ovens – where inline vacuum pumps are used to remove the underlying residual solvent. Leaving behind a thin puddle-like texture that hardens as the product is completely purged.

Live Resin

Live resin is a highly flavorful concentrate made from cannabis that is flash-frozen immediately after harvest. This process preserves the plant’s volatile terpenes, resulting in a product with a more complex and aromatic profile. It’s made using solvent extraction, but the key is the starting material.

Diamonds

Cannabis diamonds are crystalline structures of nearly pure THCA, the non-psychoactive precursor to THC. They’re created by separating cannabinoids and terpenes, maximizing potency. Diamonds can be sold as isolated crystals or mixed with terpene-rich “sauce” for enhanced flavor.

Crumble

Crumble has a dry texture, and it can be crumbled by hand (if the name doesn’t give it away). Our crumble is designed to bring out the flavor and cannabinoids of the original plant, leaving you with a balanced high. Crumble is versatile and can be dabbed, vaporized in a concentrate pen, or even sprinkled on flower.

Badder

Badder (or batter) has a smooth, creamy consistency. Like crumble, it’s usually made using solvent extraction and then whipped to achieve its unique texture. This texture can range from a thick doughy consistency to more of a wet sand depending on the batch.

Hash

Hash is a traditional cannabis concentrate made by collecting and compressing kief, or by using ice water extraction methods to separate the trichomes.
It comes in various forms and textures, from pressed blocks to a crumbly material. Hash can be smoked in a pipe or bong, vaporized, or even added to joints.

Sugar

If the name doesn’t give it away, sugar refers to concentrates with a sugary, crystallized appearance. This texture often develops during the purging process of solvent-extracted concentrates. Sugar is typically dabbed or vaporized. This concentrate can be more difficult to handle, usually applied with a stainless steel or glass dab tool.

Rosin

Rosin is a solventless concentrate, meaning it’s made without the use of any chemical solvents.

It’s produced by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower, kief, or hash, squeezing out the resinous oils. Rosin is known for its clean flavor and is typically dabbed.

How to Consume Concentrates?

Dabbing: This classic method involves vaporizing concentrates on a heated surface of a specialized water pipe called a dab rig. For a classic dabbing setup, you’ll need a dab rig, nail, dabber, torch, and carb cap. Dabbing allows for precise temperature control and a potent, flavorful experience.

Vaping: For a simpler, more discreet experience, vape pens offer a convenient alternative. These portable devices use a battery to heat the concentrate, eliminating the need for a torch and rig. Vape pens are ideal for on-the-go use and provide unparalleled convenience.

Other Methods: Beyond dabbing and vaping, some concentrates can be enjoyed in other ways. Certain concentrates can be added directly to flower in a bowl or joint for an added boost. Others can be used as is, offering versatility in how you choose to consume.

Understanding Concentrate Dosage

Due to their high potency, dosing concentrates is more important than regular flower. A general rule of thumb is to start with a small amount and wait to see how it affects you before consuming more. When you decide to try cannabis concentrates, make sure to purchase from reputable dispensaries to ensure quality and safety.

Choosing the Right Concentrate

Navigating the world of concentrates can seem daunting, but understanding your needs and the characteristics of each concentrate type will make the selection process much smoother.

Consider what you’re looking for in a cannabis experience. Are you prioritizing intense flavor, maximum potency, or a specific effect?

Concentrates offer a unique and potent way to experience cannabis. They provide a diverse range of options for those seeking tailored effects and rich flavors. From the ritual of dabbing to the ease of vape pens, there’s a consumption method to fit every lifestyle.

We’re dedicated to helping you discover the world of concentrates and find the perfect products to enhance your cannabis experience.

Explore our selection of concentrates and let our team assist you on your cannabis journey.