CANNABIS EXPLAINER
CANNABIS EXPLAINER
Cannabis concentrates are products extracted from the cannabis plant that contain dramatically higher cannabinoid concentrations than flower. Most range from 60-95% THC, compared to 15-30% in flower. They offer precise dosing, greater efficiency, and a wide range of textures and flavor profiles.
| Type | Extraction | THC% | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shatter | BHO (butane) | 70-90% | Brittle, glass-like |
| Wax / Budder | BHO | 70-85% | Soft, pliable |
| Live Resin | BHO (fresh-frozen) | 60-95% | Sauce-like, aromatic |
| Rosin | Heat + pressure (solventless) | 60-80% | Waxy to sappy |
| Distillate | Molecular distillation | 85-99% | Clear oil |
| Hash / Kief | Mechanical separation | 40-65% | Powder to pressed block |
Solvent-based extracts (BHO, CO2, ethanol) use chemical solvents to strip cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material. When properly purged, residual solvent levels are very low. These methods produce shatter, wax, live resin, and most vape cartridges.
Solventless extracts (rosin, hash, dry sift) use only heat, pressure, ice water, or mechanical methods. They are preferred by health-conscious consumers and connoisseurs for their clean extraction profile and complex terpene preservation.
Most concentrates are consumed by "dabbing" — placing a small amount on a heated nail or banger in a dab rig and inhaling the vapor. Vape cartridges are pre-filled and used with a compatible battery. Some concentrates can be added to flower in a bowl or joint. Dosing is critical: start with a very small amount (the size of a grain of rice) until you know your tolerance.