4 Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis

If you’re just diving into the world of cannabis, you’ve probably realized that there are a huge variety of different methods for consuming this incredible plant. Between flowers, edibles, and concentrates, it can sometimes be a little overwhelming to know where to start. Concentrates have become a mainstay for both medicinal and recreational cannabis users who are looking for a more potent and convenient method of consumption.

There is a wide range of different types of cannabis concentrates that vary in effects, potency, consumption methods, and more. If you are looking to jump into the world of cannabis concentrates but aren’t sure where to start, then this guide is for you!

What are Concentrates?

Before we get into learning about the different types of concentrates that are available, it’s important to gain an understanding of what a concentrate is. You may have assumed from the name “concentrate” that these products are concentrated forms of marijuana — and you would be correct!

A concentrate simply means that the cannabis plant has undergone a process that leaves you with a more potent and “concentrated” product of the psychoactive materials contained within the plant. This process, called extraction, involves removing the excess plant matter so that all you have left are the cannabinoids and terpenes.

Cannabinoids and terpenes are what make cannabis, cannabis. The two main cannabinoids found in marijuana are THC and CBD. While THC levels can vary between strains or even different batches, concentrated extracts often contain very high levels of THC.

What are the Different Types of Concentrates?

Just as there are multiple strains of marijuana, there are also various types of concentrates. This ranges from the specific strain used to make the concentrate to the form that the concentrate takes.

When visiting a dispensary, talk to your budtenders about what type of effect you are seeking so they can match you with the perfect strain to match your desired effects. Some of the most popular forms of concentrate include:

Shatter

Shatter gets its name for its glass-like consistency since it often “shatters” into little pieces when broken apart. Shatter is one of the purest forms of concentrated marijuana and is often clear or amber in color.

When consuming shatter, users will experience fast-acting highs that are much more potent and hard-hitting than their flower counterparts.

If you’re looking for the quintessential concentrate experience, look no further than shatter.

Wax

While wax is very similar to shatter as far as its effects, it is known for its stickier and more moldable state. The consistency is much like candle wax, and certain kinds need to be handled with a dabbing tool because they can be extremely sticky and impossible to handle with just your fingers. Wax is normally yellowish in color and can be smoked out of either a rig or vaporizer, just like shatter.

There are slight variations of wax concentrates ranging from those that are less sticky and crumblier to wax that is more honey-like in texture. This variation in the consistency has to do with the process used for extraction and the types of strains that are used.

Gooey waxes are created from moist oils and are sometimes referred to as “budder,” while more solid forms of wax that break apart easily are sometimes called “crumble.” Wax is another very potent concentrate that is highly psychoactive and meant for experienced cannabis users.

What Effects Can I Expect From Concentrates?

Concentrates provide a very clean and smooth high that is also very potent. Most cannabis users often make the switch when they are looking for a fresh new way to consume cannabis while also looking for more potent and fast-acting effects.

We recommend trying out concentrates only if you have some experience with flower and cannabis in general, as the high is very strong. For experienced users, the effects of concentrates are just far more potent, clean, and smooth due to the high concentration of cannabinoids within these products.

How Do I Use Concentrates?

The most popular method of concentrate consumption is dabbing, where a small amount of concentrate is placed on a heated surface to produce vapor. Unlike flower, a little bit of concentrate can go a long way, which is why it’s always recommended to take it slow when experimenting for the first time.

The most common tool for using concentrates is a dab rig. A dab rig is a water pipe specifically designed for concentrates. This piece of equipment consists of a nail, dome, and holder.

To smoke out of a dab rig, you first add water to the chamber and then place the concentrate into the holder. Heat the nail with a mini torch lighter until it’s red hot and wait 45 seconds before you touch the concentrate to the heated nail.

Once the heated nail touches the concentrate, inhale through the dab rig mouthpiece. Remember that hotter nails tend to produce harsher vapors and overall flavor when you inhale, so you need to give it some time to cool down — but not too much!

Lower temperatures create lighter vapor clouds, which typically have a cleaner flavor. Finding the perfect temperature to burn the concentrate is a tricky process that may take some practice and experimentation.

As we mentioned earlier, take it slow when you first start using concentrates, and be careful when using these high-temperature consumption methods. Apart from that, concentrates are one of the most potent and fun-to-use forms of cannabis, so speak to your local budtender today about what the best type of concentrate is for you!

Talk With Pure Oasis About Cannabis Concentrates

Pure Oasis is Boston’s first recreational cannabis dispensary. Their team of experts takes pride in their excellent customer service and extensive selection of high-quality products.