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A cannabis concentrate is a highly potent THC- (tetrahydrocannabinol) concentrated mass that is derived from the cannabis plant. It can come in the form of hash, oil, wax, shatter , or keif.
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Introduction
Cannabis concentrates , commonly referred to as extracts, are the potent distilled essence of the cannabis plant. Due to their highly concentrated nature, it is important to understand and know your cannabis concentrate before using it.
Cannabis concentrates come in many forms including:
-Hash/Kief: Made from the dried resin glands (or trichomes) that cover the flowering tops and leaves of female cannabis plants. The THC content of kief can range from 20-60%, making it one of the most potent extraction methods.
-Hash Oil/Honey Oil: A type of hash made by dissolution with a solvent such as ethanol or butane. The final product is a very potent liquid form of cannabis extract with a THC content that can range from 30-90%.
-Shatter: A type of hash oil that has been purified and solidified into a brittle, glassy state. Shatter typically has a THC content that ranges from 60-80%.
-Wax: Another type of hash oil that has been purified and solidified, but with a softer, more pliable texture than shatter. Wax typically has a THC content that ranges from 40-60%.
-Crumble: A type of hash oil that has been purged for an extended period of time resulting in a very dry and crumbly texture. Crumble typically has a THC content around 60%.
-Budder: A type of hash oil that has been whipped during purging to achieve a smooth and creamy texture similar to butter or peanut butter. Budder typically has a THC content around 60%.
What is Cannabis Concentrate?
Cannabis concentrate is a type of cannabis product that contains high levels of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds. Cannabinoids are the molecules in cannabis that are responsible for its effects on the body. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its characteristic smell and flavor.
Types of Cannabis Concentrates
There are a few methods of extraction that can be used to create cannabis concentrates. The primary methods are listed below, along with a brief description of each.
-Butane extraction: This method uses butane as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. The finished product is a highly potent concentrate that is often further processed into other forms, such as shatter or budder.
-CO2 extraction: Carbon dioxide is used as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. This method usually produces a less potent concentrate than butane extraction, but it is considered safer and more gentle on the plant material.
-Solventless extraction: This method uses physical force, such as heat and pressure, to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. Solventless extraction generally produces a less potent concentrate than other methods, but it is considered safer because no chemicals are used in the process.
The Process of Making Cannabis Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates are made by extracting the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other desirable compounds from raw plant material using one of several methods. The extracted material is then purged of unwanted plant waxes, oils, and impurities, resulting in a potent product that can be consumed in various ways.
The most popular methods of extraction include solvent-based extractions (such as butane hash oil), CO2 extractions, and mechanical separations (such as ice waterhash). Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, which will be discussed in more depth below.
Once the desired compounds have been extracted from the plant material, they are often further purified and refined to create a final product that is highly potent and easy to consume. Depending on the method of extraction used, cannabis concentrates can take on many different forms, including oils, waxes, shatters, budders, hashish, and more.
Consuming cannabis concentrates can offer many potential benefits over other forms of cannabis consumption, including increased potency, longer-lasting effects, and more precise dosing. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved with concentrate consumption before trying it yourself. These risks will be discussed in more detail below.
The Benefits of Cannabis Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates are a highly potent form of cannabis that can offer a number of benefits for users. Cannabis concentrates can be much higher in THC than traditional flower, which can offer a more powerful and longer-lasting high. In addition, cannabis concentrates can be a more efficient way to consume cannabis, as a smaller amount can offer the same effects as a larger amount of flower. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of cannabis concentrates.
Pain Relief
Cannabis concentrates offer relief from chronic pain by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body. These receptors help regulate pain perception, inflammation, and other biological processes. Cannabis concentrates can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including:
-Arthritis
-Cancer
-Chronic pain
-Depression
-Fibromyalgia
-Glaucoma
-Multiple sclerosis
-Nausea
Anxiety Relief
Cannabis concentrates offer a host of potential benefits for users, including anxiety relief. In particular, CBD-rich concentrates can be effective in treating anxiety disorders. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, meaning it can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. THC-rich concentrates can also be effective in treating anxiety, though they may also cause some side effects such as paranoia and dizziness.
Increased Appetite
Cannabis concentrates are a popular choice for those seeking the benefits of cannabis without the harmful effects of smoking. Cannabis concentrates can be taken in many different forms, including edibles, tinctures, and topical treatments. Some of the most popular concentrates include hashish, wax, and oil.
Cannabis concentrates are known to provide a number of potential health benefits, including increased appetite. Those who suffer from conditions that cause a loss of appetite, such as cancer or HIV/AIDS, may find that cannabis concentrates can help them regain their appetite and maintain a healthy weight. Concentrates can also be helpful for those who have trouble eating due to nausea or vomiting.
Better Sleep
For people who have difficulty sleeping, cannabis concentrates can offer relief. In a 2018 survey of medical cannabis patients, 72 percent of respondents said they used cannabis concentrates to improve sleep. Cannabis sativa strains that contain high levels of myrcene, a terpene that’s also found in hops, are especially effective at promoting drowsiness. Indica strains also tend to be sedating.
If you’re new to using cannabis concentrates for sleep, start with a small dose — about the size of a grain of rice. Place the concentrate under your tongue and hold it there for as long as you can before swallowing. The effects will be felt within minutes and will last for several hours.
The Side Effects of Cannabis Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates are becoming more popular as the legalization of marijuana spreads. However, there are some side effects associated with their use. Let’s take a look at some of the most common side effects of cannabis concentrates.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also known as cottonmouth, is one of the most common side effects of smoking or consuming cannabis. Concentrates can intensify this effect. While there are a number of ways to combat dry mouth, from chewing gum to drinking water, it is important to be aware of the potential for dehydration.
Red Eyes
Cannabis concentrates can cause a number of side effects, including red eyes. This is because the high concentration of THC in cannabis concentrates can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to red, watery eyes. Although this side effect is usually temporary, it can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to see. In some cases, people may also experience dryness, itchiness, or burning sensations in their eyes.
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common side effect of cannabis concentrates, especially if you are new to using them. Start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. If you experience dizziness, lie down and rest until it passes. Drink plenty of fluids and try to stay cool.
Conclusion
Cannabis concentrates come in many forms including oils, tinctures, pills, waxes, hashish, and shatters. They are made by extracting the THC and other cannabinoids from the marijuana plant using solvents like butane or CO2. The resulting product is a potent form of cannabis that can be used for medical or recreational purposes.
There are many benefits to using cannabis concentrates. They are much more potent than regular marijuana, so you only need to use a small amount to get the desired effect. This makes them ideal for people who need relief from chronic pain or other medical conditions but don’t want to get high. Cannabis concentrates can also be used to make edibles or topicals, which provide long-lasting relief from pain or other symptoms.
If you’re interested in trying cannabis concentrates, be sure to purchase them from a reputable source. Avoid buying products that have been made with solvents like butane, as these can be dangerous. Look for products that have been lab-tested to ensure they are safe and effective.
