Different types of cannabis concentrates & extractions methods:
Cannabis extracts are concentrated forms of cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds derived from the cannabis plant. They are created through various extraction methods that separate the desired components from the plant material. Here are some of the most common types of cannabis extracts:
Hashish (Hash):
Hashish is one of the oldest and most traditional cannabis extracts. It is made by separating the trichomes (resin glands) from the plant material and compressing them into a solid form. Hash can vary in consistency, from sticky and pliable to hard and brittle.
Kief:
Kief consists of the resin glands (trichomes) that have been mechanically separated from the cannabis flowers. It appears as a fine, powdery substance and is typically collected using a grinder with a kief catcher. Kief is often used to enhance the potency of joints, bowls, or other cannabis products.
CO2 Oil:
CO2 oil is produced using carbon dioxide (CO2) as a solvent in a supercritical state. This method is considered safer and more environmentally friendly than using butane. CO2 extraction allows for precise control over the extraction process, resulting in a high-quality oil that retains more of the plant’s natural compounds.
Rosin:
Rosin is a solventless extract made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flowers or hash. The process involves using a heat press or hair straightener to squeeze the material between parchment paper, causing the resin to ooze out and collect on the paper. Rosin can have a sticky, sap-like consistency and is popular among DIY cannabis enthusiasts.
Distillate:
Cannabis distillate is a highly refined extract that goes through a process called distillation. This method removes impurities, solvents, and other unwanted compounds, leaving behind a product that is often high in THC or CBD content. Distillates are usually clear, odorless, and tasteless, making them versatile for various applications.
BHO (Butane Hash Oil extract):
BHO is a type of cannabis extract produced through a process that uses butane as a solvent. It involves passing butane through a tube filled with cannabis material, which extracts the cannabinoids and terpenes. The resulting liquid is then purged of solvents, leaving behind a sticky oil commonly referred to as shatter, wax, budder, or honey oil, depending on its consistency.
Shatter (BHO extract):
Shatter is a translucent, brittle concentrate with a glass-like appearance. It is named “shatter” because of its tendency to break into thin, shatter-like pieces when handled. Shatter is typically high in THC and provides a potent and intense high.
Sugar Wax (BHO extract):
Sugar Wax is a cannabis concentrate that has a softer, wax-like consistency. It is usually sticky and has a texture similar to candle wax or earwax. Wax contains a high concentration of cannabinoids and is known for its strong flavor and aroma.
Budder (BHO extract):
Budder is a type of cannabis extract that has a creamy, butter-like consistency. It is produced by whipping the BHO extract during the purging process, resulting in a fluffy and smooth texture. Budder is often preferred for its ease of use and dabbing convenience.
Crumble (BHO extract):
Crumble, also known as honeycomb or cake batter, is a cannabis extract that has a crumbly texture, similar to a soft cheese or feta. It is often light in color and easy to handle. Crumble is known for its high terpene content, providing robust flavors and aromas.
HTFSE Sauce (BHO extract):
Sauce is a high-terpene full spectrum extract that typically has a thick, syrup-like consistency. It is characterized by its high terpene content, which gives it a saucy, liquid consistency with crystals or diamonds suspended within. Sauce offers a potent combination of flavors and cannabinoids.
Live Resin (BHO extract):
Live resin is a type of BHO extract made from freshly harvested, flash-frozen cannabis plants. The freezing process helps to preserve the delicate terpenes, resulting in a concentrate with a strong and vibrant aroma. Live resin is often highly flavorful and potent.
THC-A diamonds (BHO extract):
Diamonds are renowned for their potency, often reaching purity levels of 99% or higher. They offer a concentrated dose of THCA and are typically consumed through dabbing, vaporizing, or adding them to cannabis-infused products.
It’s worth noting that THC-A diamonds are often enjoyed in combination with other cannabis extracts or terpenes. Many cannabis concentrates feature THC-A diamonds alongside a terpene-rich sauce or “terp sauce,” which adds flavor and enhances the overall experience.
Due to their high potency, THC-A diamonds should be approached with caution, and precise dosing is crucial. As with any cannabis product, it’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed while being mindful of individual tolerance levels.
Ways to smoke cannabis concentrates:
There are several ways to smoke cannabis extracts, allowing you to enjoy the concentrated cannabinoids and flavors they offer. Here are some popular methods for consuming cannabis extracts:
Dabbing:
Dabbing is a common method used to vaporize and inhale cannabis extracts. It involves using a dab rig, which consists of a water pipe or bong with a specialized nail or banger attachment. The extract is placed on the heated nail or banger, instantly vaporizing it upon contact and producing inhalable vapor. Dabbing provides a potent and immediate effect.
Vaping:
Vaporizing cannabis extracts using a vaporizer pen or device is a popular and discreet method. There are vaporizers designed specifically for concentrates such as wax, shatter, and oil cartridges. These devices heat the extract to a temperature that vaporizes the cannabinoids and terpenes without burning the material, resulting in inhalable vapor. Vaping offers a smoother experience compared to smoking.
Joint or Blunt:
You can mix cannabis extracts into your joint or blunt to enhance the potency and flavor. To do this, spread the extract onto your rolling paper or mix it with ground cannabis before rolling. The heat from the burning cannabis will activate the extract and release its cannabinoids and terpenes. This method allows for a more traditional smoking experience.
Pipe or Bong:
Cannabis extracts can also be smoked using a traditional pipe or bong. Place a small amount of extract on top of a bed of dried herb in the bowl of your pipe or pack it into the bowl of a bong. When you light the herb and inhale through the pipe or bong, the heat will vaporize the extract, creating smoke that can be inhaled.
Hot Knives:
Hot knives is an old-school method of smoking cannabis extracts. Heat the tips of two metal knives until they are red hot, then press a small piece of the extract between the hot tips. The heat instantly vaporizes the extract, and you can inhale the resulting vapor through a tube or bottle. This method requires caution due to the potential for burns and should be done with care.
Remember to always use cannabis extracts responsibly and follow local laws and regulations regarding their use. Additionally, consider the potency of the extract and start with small doses to gauge your tolerance and desired effects.