Author: Nikki Schiedel
Concentrates, also known as Extracts, are produced when the trichomes of the cannabis flower are extracted and processed into a concentrated form that can be ingested or inhaled. Concentrates are organized into two main categories based on their production process: solventless and solvent-based.
The solventless extraction method separates the trichomes from the cannabis plant without the use of any chemical products. This process usually requires a form of temperature control, friction, and/or physical pressure. Some examples include using a heated press to create live rosin or rubbing cannabis flower between your hands to create hash.
The solvent-based extraction method uses a volatile chemical to dissolve the trichomes from the plant material. Once collected, the solvent is then removed, typically by means of evaporation. Common chemicals used in this process are butane, propane, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Types of Solventless Concentrates
Dry Sift Hash (Kief) – Cold buds are sifted back and forth across a fine mesh screen, allowing the trichomes to break off and fall through. The product is then scraped together and pressed into blocks. Traditional dry sifting is done by rubbing the plant material between your hands until the trichomes break off. Hash can be found in blonde, brown, or black variants.
Ice Water Hash – Raw cannabis flower is soaked in ice cold water and then agitated, typically with the aid of a bubblator machine. The cold temperature and gentle motion break the trichomes from the plant material. The trichomes sink and are collected in micron filter bags. They are then dried out, resulting in ice water hash or bubble hash.
Live Rosin – Heat and pressure are applied to press out the resinous glands. By not using any aggressive chemical assistance, rosin preserves more terpenes and cannabinoids than any other extraction method. It can be made from almost any starting format.
Types of Solvent-Based Concentrates
Diamonds – A crystalline form of isolated THCA where the molecules collect and stack together. Diamonds are very popular because of their purity and high THC content.
Distillate – A thin oil popular for its high potency and versatility. Distillate is the most common form of extraction found in vape cartridges and pods.
Live Resin – Manufactured using only fresh cannabis plant material that’s been flash frozen immediately post-harvest and maintained throughout the entire extraction process. This preserves the plant’s terpenes, retaining the aromatic fragrance and varied flavors that may otherwise be lost through drying and curing. It’s labeled “live” because the cannabis plant was frozen while alive.
Shatter – The common name applied to butane hash oil (BHO), propane hash oil (PHO), and CO2 oil. It is created through an extraction process that eliminates fats and lipids. Shatter is known for its glass-like appearance that easily breaks into fragments.
Wax – A broad term used to describe a family of cannabis concentrates made up of softer, opaque oils that have lost their transparency after extraction. This signature texture is created when the molecules crystallize due to agitation during the extraction process.
Why Choose Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are popular amongst long-term or high-volume consumers, as they offer a high concentration of effects without the addition of excess plant matter. The trichomes of the cannabis plant contain the resinous glands that produce terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids. These compounds contribute directly to the effects, taste, and smell of specific cannabis strains. Concentrates are made solely from the trichomes, resulting in a more potent product. Consumers with a high tolerance may benefit from switching to concentrates. While often more expensive than dried flower or pre-rolls, less product is needed to achieve similar or stronger effects.
What Is Dabbing?
Concentrates are typically consumed through inhalation using a bong, pipe, rig, or vaporizer. The act of smoking concentrates through a dab rig, e-rig, or dab pen is referred to as dabbing.
Dabbing requires extreme heat to flash vaporize the concentrate. The required temperature ranges between 400–600°F. In comparison, the combustion process of dried cannabis occurs around 350°F. E-rigs and dab pens use electronic mechanisms to heat the device to the desired temperature, while traditional dab rigs require a torch lighter.
Dab rigs look similar to small water pipes but use a banger or nail instead of a bowl. The banger/nail must be heated and then cooled slightly before adding the concentrate. A dab tool is used to scoop or break off the concentrate, and a carb cap is placed on top of the banger/nail to help with combustion and inhalation.
In conclusion: Concentrates offer an elevated smoking experience for seasoned consumers. Known for their terpene-rich flavors and strong effects, they deliver a clear and powerful high. Ready to explore the world of Concentrates? Visit us at your local Tokyo Smoke! Our knowledgeable Educators will guide you through our selection to find what works best for you.
Disclaimer: The effects mentioned above are based on research and anecdotal evidence. Effects are not guaranteed, and this information should only be used as a general reference.
References
- OCS.ca (2023) “What are Terpenes?”
- Tagen, M. (2019) “How Might Terpenes Contribute to the Entourage Effect of Cannabis”
- Janikian, M. (2019) “Solvent, Solventless VS Solvent-Free Cannabis Extracts: What’s the Difference?”
- OCS.ca (2023) “Intro to Rosin”
- OCS.ca (2023) “Intro to Kief and Sift”
- OCS.ca (2023) “Intro to Shatter and Wax”
- OCS.ca (2023) “Intro to Hash”
- OCS.ca (2023) “Intro to Live Resin”
- Leafly.com (2025) “What is Dabbing?”