Cannabis Education A Guide to Concentrates
Sep 23, 2022What is a Concentrate?
Cannabis concentrates are products made by condensing cannabinoids and terpenes, the plant compounds that give cannabis potency, aroma, and flavour. Concentrates do not contain any excess plant material, making them particularly potent.
Extraction Methods
There are two main categories of concentrates: those that are made using solvent-based extraction and those that do not use solvents. Solvent-based extraction means that the terpenes and cannabinoids are separated from the plant through substances such as butane, CO2, or alcohol. In solvent-free extraction, the terpenes and cannabinoids are separated from the plant through pressure, temperature, or water.
There are many different types of concentrates out there, and it can be difficult to know what all of the terms mean. Here’s a quick guide to different types of concentrates.
Types of Concentrates
Shatter
Shatter is a brittle, amber-coloured concentrate that can be broken into pieces. It is made using solvent-based extraction and can be smoked using a vape pen or dab rig. Shatter is generally preferred by those looking for a highly potent product. When trying shatter, remember that a little goes a long way.
Budder
Budder has a soft, somewhat oily texture, similar to butter or thick batter. Budder is often smoked using a dab rig, but the soft texture also makes this product easy to add to flower by spreading it on joints or blunts.
Wax
Wax is similar to budder and is made using the same process. The difference between budder and wax is the texture. While budder has a soft, somewhat creamy consistency, wax is dry and crumbly.
Live Resin
Live resin is a moist, glossy concentrate that ranges in colour from light amber to bright yellow-gold. It is known for its aromatic and flavourful properties. Live resin is made using a similar process as budder and wax, but uses fresh frozen plant material. This results in a concentrate with a terpene profile similar to a live plant.
Hash
Hash is dark green or brown in colour with a solid consistency that is soft enough to break apart with your hands. It usually comes in a brick shape. Hash is made by separating the trichomes from the cannabis plant and repeatedly compressing them until they form a solid piece. You can consume hash in much the same way that you consume flower. Try smoking it by itself or combined with flower, or add it to edibles.
To learn more about concentrates and get personalized advice on choosing what’s best for you, stop by our store and talk to one of our budtenders today.