Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts that contain high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. With THC levels ranging from 50% to 90%+, concentrates offer a powerful experience that's very different from smoking flower.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Concentrates are products made by extracting the most desirable compounds (cannabinoids and terpenes) from cannabis plant material. The result is a highly potent product that can be 3-5 times stronger than traditional flower.
Types of Cannabis Concentrates
Shatter
Appearance: Glass-like, translucent, breaks into pieces
THC: 70-90%
Made by: Solvent extraction (usually butane)
Known for its stability and purity with a glass-like appearance.
Wax/Budder
Appearance: Opaque, creamy to crumbly
THC: 60-80%
Made by: Solvent extraction, whipped during processing
Soft texture makes it easy to handle and manipulate.
Live Resin
Appearance: Golden, saucy consistency
THC: 65-95%
Made by: Solvent extraction from flash-frozen fresh cannabis
Maximum terpene preservation for exceptional flavor and aroma.
Rosin
Appearance: Golden to amber, sappy
THC: 60-80%
Made by: Heat and pressure only (no solvents)
Appeals to consumers who want the most natural concentrate possible.
Live Rosin
Appearance: Light golden, creamy
THC: 60-85%
Made by: Heat and pressure on fresh-frozen bubble hash
Considered the pinnacle of concentrates - solventless with maximum terpenes.
Diamonds
Appearance: Crystal formations, often in sauce
THC: Up to 99%
Nearly pure THCa crystals, often sold in terpene-rich liquid.
Hash
Appearance: Brown to black, pressed or loose
THC: 40-60%
One of the oldest concentrates, made by collecting and pressing trichomes.
Distillate
Appearance: Clear, golden liquid
THC: 85-99%
Highly refined, almost pure THC. Commonly used in vape cartridges and edibles.
How to Consume Concentrates
Dabbing
The most common method. Requires a dab rig, nail or banger, torch or e-nail, dab tool, and carb cap.
Vape Pens and Cartridges
Pre-filled cartridges offer convenience - no torch required, portable and discreet.
Adding to Flower
Concentrates can enhance regular flower by rolling wax around a joint or adding on top of a bowl.
Dosing Concentrates Safely
Concentrates are NOT for beginners. If you're new to cannabis, start with flower first.
For Concentrate Beginners:
- Start with a tiny amount - size of a grain of rice or smaller
- Use lower temperatures for smoother hits
- Wait at least 10-15 minutes between dabs
- Have water nearby
- Don't dab alone your first few times
Storing Concentrates
- Keep cool - refrigeration helps maintain consistency
- Avoid heat - concentrates can melt and degrade
- Use proper containers - silicone or glass, non-stick
- Keep airtight to prevent terpene loss
- Store away from light
What to Look for When Buying
- Lab testing - Check for potency, residual solvents, pesticides
- Color - Generally lighter is better
- Aroma - Should smell like cannabis, not chemicals
- Source material - Quality in equals quality out
Ready to Explore Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates offer a potent, flavorful experience for those ready to go beyond flower.
Find dispensaries with quality concentrates near you - browse dispensaries or explore strains to learn more.
Remember: Concentrates are powerful. Start small, go slow, and always purchase from licensed dispensaries.