When it comes to enjoying cannabis, you’ve probably heard the term concentrates buzzing around. But what exactly are they, how do you use them, and why are they so popular among modern cannabis enthusiasts? Let’s break it down.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts derived from the cannabis plant. Essentially, they contain all the best parts — cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and aromatic terpenes — without the excess plant material.
This means concentrates can deliver a powerful, clean, and flavorful experience in a much smaller dose compared to traditional flower.
There’s a wide variety of concentrates on the market, including:
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Shatter: Glass-like and brittle with high potency.
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Wax: Soft, opaque, and easy to handle.
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Budder: Smooth and buttery consistency, great for dabbing.
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Crumble: Drier and crumbly texture.
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Live Resin: Made from fresh-frozen cannabis, prized for intense terpene flavors.
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Rosin: Solventless concentrate made using heat and pressure.
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Oil: Often used in vape cartridges or edible infusions.
How Are Concentrates Made?
Producers use different extraction methods to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material. Common methods include:
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Solvent-based extraction: Using butane, CO₂, or ethanol to pull out desired compounds.
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Solventless extraction: Using heat and pressure (like rosin pressing) or ice water (like bubble hash).
Each method impacts the texture, potency, and flavor profile of the final product.
How to Use Cannabis Concentrates
There’s more than one way to enjoy concentrates. Here are some popular methods:
✅ Dabbing:
The most iconic way to use concentrates. You’ll need a dab rig, torch, and dab tool. Heat the nail, apply a small “dab” of concentrate, and inhale the vapor.
✅ Vaping:
Many vape pens and cartridges are pre-filled with cannabis oil for an easy, portable option. Some vaporizers can also handle wax or live resin.
✅ Topping Flower:
Sprinkle a bit of wax, crumble, or kief on top of a bowl or inside a joint for an extra kick.
✅ Edibles:
Some concentrates (like distillate) can be infused into food or drinks, though this usually requires precise dosing and decarboxylation.
Why Choose Concentrates?
✔️ Potency:
Concentrates often range from 60%–90% THC — much higher than typical flower (15%–30% THC). This means stronger effects with smaller amounts.
✔️ Flavor:
High terpene content can deliver bold, pure flavors that highlight a strain’s unique profile.
✔️ Efficiency:
Less material and less inhalation compared to smoking flower.
A Few Tips for Beginners
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Start Small: Concentrates are potent. Begin with a tiny dab or puff and wait to feel the effects before consuming more.
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Invest in Good Gear: Clean, quality tools make a big difference in flavor and safety.
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Store Properly: Keep concentrates in a cool, airtight container to preserve potency and taste.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis concentrates open up a world of potent, flavorful possibilities for both recreational and medicinal users. Whether you’re looking for powerful effects, bold flavors, or more efficient consumption, concentrates might just become your new favorite.
Ready to explore? Stop by Long Beach Dispensary or check out our online menu to discover a wide range of high-quality concentrates. Our knowledgeable budtenders are always here to help you find the perfect fit for your needs!
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Solvent-based extraction: Using butane, CO₂, or ethanol to pull out desired compounds.
-
Solventless extraction: Using heat and pressure (like rosin pressing) or ice water (like bubble hash).
Each method impacts the texture, potency, and flavor profile of the final product.