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The Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis Concentrates: What You Need to Know
- StonerStrategies
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
So, you’ve been dabbling in flower, but now you’re curious about cannabis concentrates — those potent, sticky goodies like wax, shatter, and oils that have been making waves in the cannabis scene. Concentrates pack a powerful punch and offer a different kind of experience, but if you’re new to them, they can be a little intimidating.
No worries! We’re here to break down the basics, bust some myths, and help you figure out if concentrates are your next new best friend.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are products made by extracting the cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes from the cannabis plant. The result? A potent, concentrated form of cannabis that can come in many textures and potencies.
Some popular types include:
Wax: Soft, crumbly, and easy to handle.
Shatter: Glass-like, brittle, and translucent.
Oil: Sticky liquid, often used in vape cartridges or tinctures.
Rosin: Solventless concentrate made by pressing cannabis with heat and pressure.
Why Try Concentrates?
Potency: Concentrates can have THC levels of 70-90% (compared to 10-25% in flower).
Flavor: Because concentrates preserve terpenes, many users find them more flavorful.
Efficiency: A little goes a long way — meaning fewer sessions for the same effect.
Versatility: You can vape, dab, cook with, or even make your own edibles from concentrates.
How Are Concentrates Made?
Extraction methods vary, but here are some basics:
Solvent-Based: Uses chemicals like butane or CO2 to pull cannabinoids out of the plant. (These require professional processing to be safe.)
Solventless: Uses heat and pressure (like rosin pressing) or ice water (bubble hash) to separate cannabinoids without chemicals.
Safety Tips for Using Concentrates
Start Low and Go Slow: Concentrates are potent — start with a tiny dab or small puff.
Use Proper Tools: Dab rigs, vape pens, or cartridges designed for concentrates are best.
Buy from Reputable Sources: Quality matters — avoid black market products that may contain contaminants.
Can You Cook With Concentrates?
Absolutely! Concentrates are perfect for making edibles because they’re easy to dose and infuse. Just be mindful of heat — high temps can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, so cook low and slow.
Want to Learn More?
Our Essential Guide to Edibles dives into how to safely make cannabis-infused treats, including using concentrates. Grab your free copy today and become the kitchen cannabis pro you were meant to be!
Check Out Our Cookbooks for Concentrate Recipes
Mangia Ganja features customizable recipes with clear dosing instructions
Stoner Strategies: The Essential Guide to Edibles is great for new cannabis chefs who want to start slow and smart
This publication is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Readers are responsible for complying with all applicable laws in their jurisdiction. Nothing herein constitutes legal or medical advice.
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