Cannabis legislation regarding recreational use is responsible for the emergence of new types of products, including marijuana concentrates. Cannabis concentrates like live resin and solventless have gained popularity as a result of their discreetness, effectiveness, and convenience, but what exactly are they?
In this article, we will explore two popular forms of cannabis concentrates: solventless and live resin. We will review the primary differences and discuss their flavors, potency, and effects to help you learn more about each one and decide which might be a better fit for you.
First, what are concentrates? Cannabis concentrates are the plant’s compounds that produce cannabinoids, which contain high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychotropic ingredient in marijuana that makes people feel high. When cannabis plants bloom, the buds are covered in microscopic compounds called trichomes that produce cannabinoids. The different varieties of trichomes collectively create cannabis concentrates which are collected from the buds.
Concentrates like dabs and extracts are vaporized and inhaled using a vape pen or vape cartridge (cart), which are pre-filled with cannabis oil. Concentrates are produced with solvents (butane, ether, or alcohol), heat, freezing, and pressure.
Solvents are used because this production method costs less and results in higher, longer-lasting THC levels (54-69% on average), but it can be dangerous due to the flammability and volatility of the solvents used. There is also a concern that residual impurities from pesticides and the solvent may be inhaled. Most production facilities nowadays use safer methods sometimes called mechanical extractions.
Solventless concentrates are more natural and free from chemical contaminants because the extraction is done with mechanical techniques rather than using solvents to separate plant matter. This method doesn’t require clean up, which results in a more premium extraction made from top tier flower.
Solventless products produce average THC levels between 39-60% and include rosin, dry hash, and ice hash. Dry hash is produced by filtering dried cannabis flower that is sifted through fine screens until it becomes a powder known as kief, which can then be pressed into blocks of dry hash.
Rosin is made from uncured, dried flower, whereas hash or kief usually comes from heat and pressure. Rosin is made naturally and should not be confused with live resin, which uses chemical solvents. This Root Beer Float Live Hash Rosin from Blue River is a hybrid strain with 74.55% THC harvested flash frozen whole cannabis buds using ice water extraction and advanced mechanical separation techniques.
Ice hash, also called bubble hash, is made from frozen cannabis plants. Trichomes are separated and filtered through fine mesh bags that allow only water and frozen trichomes to pass through for collection.
Live resin is made from cryogenically frozen cannabis plant material that helps maintain the plant’s delicate flavor compounds. Live resin is known for its high terpene content, and is considered to be more pure and superior in quality because it is obtained from newly harvested, uncured marijuana plants using a flash-freezing process that preserves cannabinoids for a more well-rounded high.
This cannabis concentrate is stronger, more flavorful, and has a rich, fresh aroma. Cannabis connoisseurs believe the live resin concentrate production process helps preserve the terpene profile of top strains, making it a favorite among weed aficionados.
Vape cartridges have made consuming live resin much more convenient. The inhaled cannabis is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing effects that are felt immediately. Prepackaged cartridges usually come filled with .5 to 1 gram of cannabis oil or distillate, providing an easy, discreet way to enjoy your favorite cannabis products.
This handy pre-filled cartridge from FloraCal Farms is a Sativa with 73.2% THC.
Live resin can be ingested in edibles for a full-spectrum experience. The process of making them involves decarbing live resin in order to activate cannabinoids when ingested. Live resin edibles tend to be more intense due to enhanced effect, so it’s smart to begin with a low dose and work up to the right balance for the individual.
Cannabis concentrates are a fantastic way to try new products and experiment with old favorites. That being said, it is important to remember that today’s cannabis products are far more potent than ever before, so please consume responsibly.
As with all marijuana products, make sure you’re in a safe environment and take it slow until you know how each product affects you. Start conservatively for the best experience. You can always smoke or consume more weed to get higher, but it’s impossible to instantaneously become “less high.”
The ideal location to try solventless and live resin products is in the safety and comfort of your own home. Call Doobie 1-888-8DOOBIE or order online for fast, professional cannabis delivery. If you feel overwhelmed by all of your options, Doobie’s Concierge is here to help you pick out the products that might work best for you.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Please consume cannabis responsibly and follow all local laws and regulations.
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