Getting interested in concentrates

As I’ve gotten more familiar and comfortable with different types of cannabis consumption methods, I’ve become more adventurous.

Rather than strictly smoking flower, I’ve tried various tinctures, edibles and vapes. Just recently, I started looking into concentrates. There are so many options for concentrates that it’s a little overwhelming. I did some research and learned that a cannabis concentrate is made by removing excess plant matter. The cannabinoids and terpenes that are left behind offer a much higher potency. THC levels can average anywhere from 50 to 90%. Traditional flower usually ranges between 10 to 25% THC. Concentrates also provide exceptional flavor and aroma. Most concentrates are created through either solvent-based or solventless extractions. A solvent-based extraction uses butane, carbon dioxide, ethanol or propane to dissolve the plant and allow the cannabinoids and terpenes to be stripped out. Live resin, shatter, wax and crumble are examples of solvent-based extraction concentrates. Solventless extractions avoid chemicals, insteading using physical methods that apply pressure, filtration or temperature to the plant material. Budder and rosin are examples of solventless extraction concentrates. Once I choose the type, texture and strain of concentrate, I then need to figure out how to consume it. Some concentrates, such as kief, can be sprinkled on flower and smoked for some added potency. Concentrate oils can be vaped by way of a disposable or refillable cartridge. Concentrates can also be dabbed using a dab rig and a nail. I’m not ready to try dabbing. Although my local dispensary includes a dab lounge where I could get some assistance, it just sounds a little too complicated.

Sativa