While smoking weed can give you a pretty potent high, people are always looking for the next level.
Enter cannabis concentrates. These marijuana products are processed to extract the most compounds possible out of them. CBD oil is one of the most popular cannabis concentrates. It’s made mostly of cannabidiol, with the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other plant materials removed.
Apart from CBD oil, many other concentrates provide different benefits. Here’s all you need to know about cannabis concentrates and how to use them.
Necessary Preparation
The concentrated cannabis journey starts with drying and curing the flower, which is usually done by dispensaries everywhere, from Los Angeles to Missouri. The flowers are harvested fresh from their branches and set on a rack to dry for five to 15 days, depending on environmental conditions. They are then trimmed and stored in airtight containers to be cured for about four to eight weeks. Once they’re nice and moist, they’re ready for extraction.
Types of Concentrates and Their Uses
The kind of concentrate you’re going to get depends on how you extract your flower. Concentrates can be extracted with butane, ethanol, carbon dioxide, and even water. No matter the method, the primary goal in extraction is to isolate the small, sparkling strands on the plant called “trichomes.” These hair-like structures contain most of the cannabis compounds like cannabidiol (CBD) and THC.
- Butane Hash Oil (BHO) – This dab rig staple is extracted by forcing butane through the cannabis flower, taking the trichomes with it. After extraction, the butane is removed by heating until a wax-like substance forms. BHO has different subtypes that come in different textures.
- Shatter is hard and almost glass-like. It’s known as the purest of all cannabis concentrates, as it’s made mostly of THC. It gives a very potent high, so it’s best for experienced smokers.
- Wax is also made mostly of THC, but it has more of a crumbly texture to it. A softer version of this is called “budder,” which is less potent but more flavorful when smoked.
- Hashish – The earliest cannabis concentrate known to man, hashish, is made by compressing cannabis pollen. The pollen, also known as “kief,” is extracted by using screens to filter it from the flower. Once a substantial amount of kief has been collected, it can then be pressed in between slabs to create blocks of the final product. There are also other types of hash like “bubble hash” which is extracted with cold water and filter screens. Hash can be eaten or dabbed.
- CO2 Oil – This is made through a complex process of carbon dioxide separating the components of cannabis. The end product is a thick liquid that is perfect for vaping.
- Rosin – Also a great companion for your dab, rosin is made by applying pressure and heat to a nugget of cannabis until it creates a thick liquid.
There are many options to choose from when it comes to cannabis concentrates. But don’t be fooled by the small amounts that you put on your dab. They all pack a punch. So be careful, take small hits and gradually take bigger ones as you get used to it.
Get Quality Concentrates for Your Dab
When it comes to buying concentrates, you should go to a dispensary you can trust. Here at Latitude Dispensary, we provide premium cannabis strains, concentrates, edibles, and more. Our branches offer a safe and inviting environment for customers to shop, as well as quality products. We’re always ready to help you with your medical marijuana journey.
Contact us today to find the right concentrate for you.