Cannabis concentrates
Cannabis concentrates are a type of cannabis product that offer a more potent and concentrated form of the plant’s active compounds, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as terpenes and other beneficial plant compounds. Concentrates are made using a variety of methods, including solvent-based extraction, heat and pressure, and freeze-drying techniques. The resulting concentrates come in many different forms and textures, ranging from sticky, waxy substances to brittle, glass-like shards. Cannabis concentrates are often used by those who prefer a stronger, more potent form of cannabis, or who are looking for a way to consume cannabis without smoking. They can be added to a variety of products, including edibles, tinctures, and topicals, and can be used to enhance the potency of flower-based cannabis products. However, it’s important to note that cannabis concentrates should only be purchased from reputable sources and used responsibly, as they can be very potent and have strong effects.
Combining THC and CBD Concentrates along with terpenes can create a superior consumer experience in several ways.
Here are some examples:
Delta 9 distillate is a concentrated form of cannabis that has been purified to remove all impurities and unwanted compounds, leaving behind a potent and pure form of delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This process involves using specialised equipment and techniques to extract the delta 9 THC from the cannabis plant, and then purifying it through distillation to remove any remaining impurities. The result is a clear, high-potency liquid that can be used for a variety of purposes, including vaporisation, dabbing, and edibles. Because of its purity and potency, high quality organic delta 9 distillate is often sought after by those who are looking for a potent and consistent cannabis experience
CBD distillate is a highly refined, liquid form of cannabidiol (CBD) that has been extracted from the cannabis plant using a specialised distillation process. This process involves heating the hemp plant material to a precise temperature, which causes the various cannabinoids, including CBD, to vaporise and separate from the plant material.
The resulting vapour is then condensed back into a liquid form, which is rich in CBD and other beneficial compounds. CBD distillate typically contains high concentrations of CBD, with little to no THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.
Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate that is known for its brittle, glass-like texture. It is made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant using solvents like butane or CO2. Shatter is often vaporised or “dabbed” using a specialised rig or vaporiser, and is known for its high potency and fast-acting effects.
Wax: Wax is a cannabis concentrate that has a soft, waxy texture. It is similar to shatter in that it is made using solvents and is often vaporised or dabbed. However, wax is typically less brittle than shatter and has a more malleable consistency that is easier to work with.
Live resin: Live resin is a cannabis concentrate that is made using freshly harvested, flash-frozen plant material. This helps to preserve the terpene content of the plant, resulting in a concentrate with a strong, flavourful aroma and taste. Live resin is often vaporised or dabbed and is known for its potent effects.
Rosin: Rosin is a cannabis concentrate that is made by applying heat and pressure to the plant material, causing the cannabinoids and terpenes to be extracted. It is often made using a hair straightener or similar tool, and is known for its purity and lack of residual solvents. Rosin can be vaporised, dabbed, or added to edibles and other products.
CO2 oil: CO2 oil is a cannabis concentrate that is made using supercritical CO2 extraction. This method uses high pressure and low temperatures to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material, resulting in a concentrate that is clean and free of residual solvents. CO2 oil can be used in a variety of ways, including vaporising, dabbing, and adding to edibles.
Live and cured cannabis
Live and cured cannabis refer to different stages in the drying and curing process of harvested cannabis plants. Here’s a brief explanation of the differences between live and cured cannabis:
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Live cannabis refers to freshly harvested cannabis plants that are immediately frozen to preserve their natural terpene content. The plants are frozen at very low temperatures, usually within a few hours of being harvested. The frozen plant material is then used to create live resin, a type of cannabis concentrate known for its potent, flavourful aroma and taste. Live cannabis products are usually made using flash-frozen plant material and are often considered to be of higher quality than cured cannabis products.
Cured cannabis refers to harvested cannabis plants that have been dried and cured over a period of time to allow the moisture content to evaporate and the cannabinoid and terpene content to mature. The drying and curing process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the method used and the environmental conditions. During the curing process, the cannabis is stored in a controlled environment with carefully monitored temperature and humidity levels to ensure optimal flavour and potency. Cured cannabis is typically used for smoking or vaporising, and is often preferred by those who value a smooth smoke and a well-balanced flavour profile.
In summary, the main difference between live and cured cannabis products is the stage in which the plant is processed after harvest. Live cannabis products are made from freshly harvested, frozen plants, while cured cannabis products are made from plants that have been dried and cured over a period of time. Both types of products have their own unique characteristics and uses, and can offer different experiences for cannabis consumers.
There are several methods for consuming cannabis concentrates, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the most common methods:
Vaporising/Dabbing: Vaporising or “dabbing” is a popular method of consuming concentrates that involves heating the concentrate to its vaporisation point and inhaling the resulting vapour. This is often done using a specialised vaporiser or “dab rig” that is designed specifically for concentrates. Vaporising allows for precise temperature control, which can help preserve the flavour and potency of the concentrate.
Edibles: Cannabis concentrates can also be added to food and beverages to create edibles, which are ingested orally. Edibles can be made at home using concentrates or purchased pre-made from a dispensary. The effects of edibles can be very strong and long-lasting, so it’s important to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.
Topicals: Cannabis concentrates can also be infused into topical products like creams and lotions for use on the skin. Topicals are not psychoactive and are used primarily for their potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Tinctures: Cannabis concentrates can be dissolved in alcohol or oil to create tinctures, which are ingested orally. Tinctures are often used for their fast-acting effects and precise dosing capabilities.
Smoking: While less common, cannabis concentrates can also be smoked by adding them to a joint, pipe, or bong. However, smoking concentrates can be harsh on the lungs and may not be the most efficient use of the product.
It’s important to note that the potency of cannabis concentrates can vary widely, and dosing can be challenging. It’s recommended to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. Additionally, it’s important to purchase cannabis concentrates from reputable sources and use them responsibly.
Combining cannabis compounds allows for a more customisable experience.
Depending on the desired effects, different ratios of THC to CBD can be used to achieve the desired effects, such as reducing pain or anxiety. Adding terpenes to the mix can further enhance the desired effects and create a more personalised experience.
Increased entourage effect: The entourage effect is the idea that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds work together to create a more significant effect than any single compound can achieve on its own. By combining THC and CBD distillates with terpenes, the entourage effect can be amplified, providing a more potent and enjoyable experience.
Improved flavour and aroma: Terpenes are responsible for the distinct flavours and aromas of cannabis strains. By adding terpenes to THC and CBD distillates, the resulting product can have a more enjoyable and diverse flavour profile. This can be especially appealing to consumers who prefer the natural flavour and aroma of cannabis.
Potentially improved health benefits: CBD and THC distillates are known to have several health benefits, such as reducing pain, anxiety, and inflammation. By adding terpenes to the mix, it’s possible that the health benefits could be further enhanced. For example, terpenes like limonene and beta-caryophyllene have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, respectively.
Overall, combining THC and CBD distillates along with terpenes can create a more customisable, potent, and enjoyable experience for consumers. However, it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable bud-tender or healthcare professional to ensure that the product is tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.
