Understanding extraction methods, types, effects, and safe consumption practices
Cannabis concentrates are products made by extracting the desirable compounds (cannabinoids and terpenes) from the cannabis plant, resulting in a product with significantly higher potency than dried flower.
Glass-like, translucent concentrate that "shatters" when broken. High THC content (70-90%). Typically made with butane hash oil (BHO) extraction.
Opaque, creamy consistency with a texture similar to ear wax or butter. THC content around 70-85%. Easier to handle than shatter.
Made from flash-frozen plants, preserving more terpenes for enhanced flavor and aroma. THC content 70-90%.
Solventless extract made using heat and pressure. Considered safer as no chemicals are used. THC content 60-80%.
Traditional concentrate made by compressing trichomes. Can be consumed in many ways. THC content 20-60%.
Highly refined concentrate with purity up to 99% THC. Nearly flavorless and used in many products like vape cartridges.
Almost pure THC (up to 99.9%) in crystalline form. Typically added to other products to increase potency.
Contains THC crystals suspended in terpene-rich liquid. High terpene content provides robust flavor.
Edibles are food products infused with cannabis extracts. They undergo a different metabolic process than inhaled cannabis, resulting in delayed onset but longer-lasting effects.
When consumed, THC is processed by the liver and converted to 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent form that crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently, resulting in stronger psychoactive effects.
Important: Edibles have delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours). Start with low doses (2.5-5mg THC) and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
Most popular edible form. Precise dosing, variety of flavors. Effects in 30-90 minutes, lasting 4-8 hours.
Often made with cannabis-infused cocoa butter. Faster absorption due to fat content. Effects in 30-60 minutes.
Traditional "pot brownies" and cookies. Dosing can be inconsistent. Effects in 45-90 minutes.
Cannabis-infused drinks, from teas to sodas. Faster onset than solid foods (15-45 minutes).
Liquid extracts taken sublingually (under the tongue). Faster onset than edibles (15-45 minutes).
Precise dosing, discreet consumption. Similar onset to edibles (45-90 minutes).
Dissolve in mouth for partial sublingual absorption. Effects in 15-60 minutes.
Infused ingredients for home cooking. Dosing requires careful calculation.
| Product Type | Onset Time | Duration | Typical Potency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shatter/Wax | Immediate | 1-3 hours | 70-90% THC | Experienced users, strong relief |
| Live Resin/Rosin | Immediate | 1-3 hours | 70-90% THC | Flavor enthusiasts, full-spectrum effects |
| Distillate | Immediate | 1-3 hours | 85-99% THC | Precise dosing, customizable experiences |
| Hash | Immediate | 1-3 hours | 20-60% THC | Traditional consumption, moderate effects |
| Gummies/Edibles | 30 min - 2 hours | 4-8 hours | 5-100mg per serving | Long-lasting effects, discrete consumption |
| Tinctures | 15-45 minutes | 4-6 hours | 5-50mg per mL | Fast-acting, adjustable dosing |
| Beverages | 15-45 minutes | 3-6 hours | 5-20mg per serving | Social situations, quick onset |
Warning: Concentrates are extremely potent. Beginners should approach with caution and seek guidance from experienced users or dispensary staff.