What are Cannabis Concentrates?

“Concentrates” is an umbrella term that refers to a variety of different cannabis extracts but many of them are different names for the same thing. They are derived from the cannabis flower using various cannabinoid extraction methods.   The different types of concentrates come from the different extraction processes and solvents used. The end product is a highly potent oil with varying consistencies.

DANGER! Marijuana Concentrates have a very high potency. 

Cannabis concentrates are becoming increasingly popular but there are a few things you should know before using them. The most important distinction between marijuana and concentrates is it’s extremely high potency.  Concentrates are far more potent than any bud you have ever rolled up and smoked.  Marijuana potency tends to range between 10-25% 

“The levels of THC in concentrates can be range between 50% – 90%!”

Just remember to always start with a low dose. Don’t ruin your experience by rushing into it, getting way too high, and freaking out. Start with just one hit and see how you feel. If you have a low tolerance share 1 hit with a friend and dab slowly!

Expect to pay more for marijuana concentrates because the THC content is so high. The more potent forms of concentrates cost more. Pricing can range between $30-$60 per gram. That sounds like a lot but remember one gram will last you a long time because you won’t need very much. Just a tiny little dab the size of a pinhead can get you high.

So how are cannabis extracts made?

Most concentrates are extracted using heat and a solvent like CO2, butane, hydrocarbons, propane, water or alcohol. These solvents strip out the plants material and isolate the chemical compounds you want like THC and CBD. Each step of the extraction process is a delicate balance between art and science. The knowledge that goes into extracting oils is as complicated as growing a farm of marijuana plants. This is not something we recommend you try at home. If it’s done improperly it can be very dangerous. The worst case scenario is your experiment blows up your home. The best case is you get a dirty extraction with some solvents left behind. These chemical contaminants could cause some serious health risks later down the road. Professional extractors choose the closed extraction method. This is safer but requires more sophisticated industrial equipment.  To protect your health make sure to leave this to the professionals.

Why do people use marijuana concentrates and who is it for?

Each of the different types of cannabis extracts are far more potent than any marijuana you have ever smoked. The most potent bud in the world weighs in at 30% THC. The best bud at most dispensaries in Canada is about 25 THC%. Most cannabis extracts range between 60 – 90% THC. That’s why they seem so pricey. Concentrates are great for those who need a powerful dose of potent medicine quickly. Patients dealing with chronic pain or extreme nausea say that dabbing can be one of the best ways to get immediate relief. 

Concentrates are NOT for those who are new to marijuana.  If 1-2 hits off a joint gets you high as a kite, a heavy dose from any of the different types of marijuana extracts will flatten you. High doses can make you feel like you need to go to the the hospital because of Intense hallucinations and an overwhelming feeling of anxiety. This is definitely not for novices. For newcomers start with a really small dab or share one with a friend. Taking more than your limit  can result in an uncomfortable experience and, in some cases, passing out. A mild non-psychoactive CBD-rich extract would be a good choice for beginners. Hash and tinctures tend to have lower THC contents than other types of concentrates so that’s probably a good place to start. 

Here are some of the most common types of cannabis extracts available on the market today.

Budder Concentrate | BHO Butane Hash Oil | Crumble & Honeycomb | Hash | Kief | Live Resin | Phoenix Tears | Rosin Concentrate | Shatter