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As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, consumers are becoming more curious about advanced product forms such as concentrates — also referred to as “dabs.” Whether you’ve dabbed before or are just dipping your toes into this consumption method, it’s important to understand the basics before diving deeper.
Here at Y Cannabis dispensary in Massachusetts, our team of experts is committed to bringing you high-end products that are as real as you are. So, we’re also getting real about cannabis education with our advanced guide to all things dabbing.
From understanding terminology to choosing your preferred concentrate type, this go-to guide will give beginners the knowledge they need to confidently navigate the world of dabbing (and maybe even teach regulars a thing or two!).
“Dabbing” is the process of consuming concentrated forms of cannabis, which come in a wide range of product types, through some sort of dab rig.
These concentrated forms of cannabis are made using extraction methods (don’t worry, more on that to come) that result in various textures and consistencies, from sugar and shatter to rosin and live resin.
These concentrates are also referred to as extracts, so the terms are interchangeable. Concentrates or extracts consumed through dabbing can also be called dabs.
When you walk into a recreational cannabis dispensary in Massachusetts or browse a store menu online, you’ll see lots of different types of concentrates available. Some of the most common ones include:
Concentrates are made by separating or “extracting” trichome heads that contain valuable cannabinoids and terpenes — the compounds responsible for the flavors, aromas, and beneficial effects of a particular cannabis plant — from the rest of the plant material, such as stalks and leaves.
There are two core ways to do this: solvent and solventless extraction. Understanding the differences between these methods can help you choose which types of concentrates you want to purchase.
With solvent extraction, a solvent such as butane or carbon dioxide is used to break apart the trichome heads and chemically separate the desired compounds from everything else. Solvents can isolate specific molecules like THC or CBD for a precise extraction process, which is often used in larger commercial operations that process high amounts of cannabis material. Solvent extracts require a purging process, which removes the solvents from the final product to make them clean enough for human consumption.
Common concentrates made with solvent extraction methods include various forms of BHO, crumble, and alcohol-based tinctures.
Solventless extraction uses mechanical rather than chemical processes to separate, isolate, and collect trichome heads. Ice water extraction is the most common solventless method, which involves mixing ice-cold water and cannabis plant material together. This “agitates” the trichome heads and causes them to fall away from their stalks. This mixture is then filtered through a series of sieves called bubble wash bags, which catch trichomes while the unwanted plant particles slip through.
Common concentrates made with solventless extraction methods include hash and rosin.
There are a few reasons why cannabis connoisseurs or curious consumers may decide to dabble in dabbing. Here are a few of the main ones.
Concentrates are much more potent than flower. On average, flower will range anywhere from 15% to 30% THC while concentrates range from 50% to 90%. Depending on the strain, THC percentages can even reach the high 90s. While not suggested for beginners, some consumers have a higher tolerance for cannabis or just want a stronger experience and prefer these higher levels of potency.
Extracts take the same range of terpenes and cannabinoids present in the original buds and then concentrate them even further. This results in enhanced flavor and aroma profiles compared to other consumption methods.
The effects of concentrates are felt immediately and last longer than flower due to those higher potency levels. So, dabbing can be one of the best ways to feel immediate and effective relief from cannabis.
If you’re newer to cannabis concentrates and the wonderful world of dabbing, you may find yourself wondering:
As mentioned above, concentrates are most commonly consumed on a dab rig which are often made of glass or silicone. You heat the banger with a blow torch, wait and allow the banger to cool to a comfortable temperature, apply your desired amount of concentrate, and then inhale.
Thanks to modern technology, there are also electronic devices called “eRigs.” These devices tend to be more portable and can automatically heat up to your desired temperature without a blow torch or the need to wait for a banger to cool down.
Additionally, there are forms of concentrates that are not dabbed at all. Vape pens that utilize cartridges contain concentrated cannabis oil but are not dabs because they don’t use a dab rig. A few more examples include kief, which is typically sprinkled on top of a bowl of flower or rolled into a joint, as well as tinctures, which are taken orally under the tongue. Concentrated oils are also often used to make edibles.
If you do use a dab rig or eRig to consume your concentrates, you’ll need to clean it regularly between uses. The cleaning process may slightly differ depending on the device itself, but will typically involve using isopropyl alcohol to remove sticky resin and disinfect surfaces. To get into hard-to-reach crevices, you can dip a Q-tip in the isopropyl alcohol or use a pre-soaked wipe.
If you’re sharing a rig while you sesh with friends, don’t forget to wipe the mouthpiece in between uses to help prevent the spread of germs.
With so many types of cannabis concentrates available and ways to consume dabs, it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed by all the options. There are a few things to consider when selecting what type of concentrate to buy:
This knowledge empowers you to make well-informed purchase decisions so you can have more positive experiences that suit your preferences and expectations. Some of this might require a little bit of trial and error — for example, tasting a few different strains to find out what flavor profiles you prefer, or smelling different jars before you find that one that resonates with you.
And when in doubt, you can always ask your budtender! Speaking of…
If you’re interested in shopping for cannabis concentrates and live in a legal state, you should only purchase from a state-licensed dispensary to ensure product safety and quality.
As a recreational dispensary in Massachusetts, we carry a wide array of concentrates sourced from top vendors across the state. With a focus on quality selections and community-driven shopping, Y is the place to go so you can find your people alongside best-in-class products.
Here at Y Cannabis, our shelves are stocked with various concentrate brands and product types. Whether you’re a dedicated dabber looking to try the latest flavor or are just starting to explore concentrates, we’re all about letting you have access to whatever makes you feel on top of the world.
Visit us in-store to hear from our budtenders about their favorite cannabis concentrates. You can also explore our online menu and pre-order for pickup at our Taunton dispensary.
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