In recent years, concentrates have become an increasingly popular form of cannabis consumption. Concentrates, also known as extracts, are highly potent derivatives of the cannabis plant that offer a more efficient and potent way to consume THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and other cannabinoids. In this article, we will explore the world of concentrates and discuss their benefits, types, and how they are made.
What are Concentrates?
Concentrates are highly potent cannabis extracts that contain high levels of THC or other cannabinoids. They are created by extracting essential oils and resin from the cannabis plant. The resulting concentrate is then heated and processed to create a variety of products, including oils, waxes, shatter, and budder.
Benefits of Concentrates
There are many benefits to using concentrates over traditional cannabis consumption methods, such as smoking or edibles. Some of these benefits include:
Potency: Concentrates are highly potent, with THC levels ranging from 60% to 90%, compared to traditional cannabis flower, which typically has a THC content of around 20%.
Efficiency: Concentrates offer a more efficient way to consume cannabis, as they require less material to achieve the desired effect.
Healthier: Concentrates are considered a healthier alternative to smoking cannabis, as they produce less smoke and carcinogens.
Types of Concentrates
There are many different types of concentrates available on the market, each with their unique characteristics and methods of consumption. Some of the most popular types of concentrates include:
Shatter: A brittle, translucent concentrate that breaks easily.
Wax: A soft, opaque concentrate that has a consistency similar to ear wax.
Budder: A soft, crumbly concentrate that has a texture similar to butter.
Oil: A viscous liquid concentrate that can be used in vape pens or added to edibles.
How are Concentrates Made?
Concentrates are made by extracting the essential oils and resin from the cannabis plant using a variety of methods, including:
Solvent-based extraction: This involves using solvents such as butane or CO2 to extract the essential oils and resin from the cannabis plant.
Rosin press: This method involves applying heat and pressure to the cannabis plant to extract the essential oils and resin.
Water-based extraction: This method involves using water to extract the essential oils and resin from the cannabis plant.
Conclusion
Concentrates are quickly becoming the future of cannabis consumption, offering a more potent, efficient, and healthier alternative to traditional methods. With the many types of concentrates available and the various methods used to create them, consumers have a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you prefer shatter, wax, budder, or oil, concentrates offer a unique and enjoyable way to experience the benefits of cannabis.