Cannabis concentrates offer a potent, versatile, and flavorful way to enjoy cannabis – which may explain why they are quickly rising in popularity. Whether you are a seasoned cannabis consumer or just beginning to explore, an understanding of concentrates can open a new world of options. The following will provide a thorough overview of concentrates, how they are produced and the types of products that are developed from concentrates.

Extraction methods to create cannabis concentrates 

There are two main categories of extraction methods for concentrates: solvent-based and solventless. In solvent-based extraction, solvents like butane, propane, or carbon dioxide (CO2) are used to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. The solventless extraction process avoids chemical solvents and uses physical techniques like heat, pressure or agitation to create concentrates.

Types of cannabis concentrates 

There are many types of concentrates on the market, each with unique qualities. Here are a few of the most popular types:

• Distillate: Highly refined and almost pure THC or CBD, distillate is odorless and flavorless but extremely potent. It’s commonly used in edibles, tinctures, and vape pens, and is a key ingredient in Bonanza’s many products. 

• Live resin: Created from fresh, flash-frozen cannabis plants, live resin preserves the plant’s full terpene profile, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic experience. 

• Crystalline: Sometimes called “diamonds,” crystalline is almost pure cannabinoid in crystal form, often with THC-A or CBD-A. It’s very potent but has no flavor on its own. 

• Sauce: A terpene-rich extract that has a syrupy consistency, sauce contains both cannabinoid crystals and liquid terpenes, resulting in a flavorful, potent product.

How to consume cannabis concentrates 

Cannabis concentrates offer many ways to consume, each providing a unique experience. Here are a few popular methods:

• Vaping: Many vape pens are designed to be used with concentrates like oil or wax. Vaping is often considered more convenient and discreet and has become increasingly popular among cannabis consumers. 

• Edibles and infusions: Concentrates like distillate or tinctures can be added to foods or beverages to create edibles.  

• Dabbing: This is one of the most common ways to use concentrates. A dab rig, which is similar to a water pipe, allows you to heat the concentrate and inhale the vapor. 

• Topping flower: Adding a small amount of concentrate like kief or wax to cannabis flower can enhance its potency and flavor.

Because they are so concentrated, as the name implies, products incorporating concentrates can provide strong effects with only a small amount consumed. Because of this, it is important for new concentrate consumers to use discretion when they begin to enjoy concentrates. Due to the “whole plant” experience provided through most concentrates, consumers typically find these products have a more robust, terpene-rich flavor and aromas creating a more sensory experience. 

Cannabis concentrates offer a powerful and unique way to enjoy cannabis, delivering effects, flavors and versatility that can appeal to both recreational and medicinal users. From edibles to tinctures to vape pens, there’s a consumption method to suit almost everyone. As with any cannabis product, it’s best to start small and go slow, especially if you’re new to concentrates. Always ensure you’re sourcing products from reputable producers who prioritize quality and safety. 

Whether you’re looking for the bold flavors of live resin, the potency of distillate or the versatility of hash, cannabis concentrates have something to offer.