Different Types Of Cannabis Concentrates: Ex-Budtender Explains

Cannabis concentrates are having a moment.

Cannabis extracts like live rosin, live resin, bubble hash, distillate and diamonds are some of the most popular products in the industry.

From their ridiculously high potency that offers powerful psychoactive effects, to their unique textures, flavors, aromas and extraction methods, cannabis extracts are where it’s at.

With so many different types of concentrates, however, it can become difficult to discern which is best for your own unique needs. Here we’ll take a look at different types of cannabis concentrates so you can make the best decision for your personal canna consumption style.

Keep reading to learn more about all the different forms of concentrated cannabis products.

Key Takeaways: Types Of Cannabis Concentrates

• Cannabis concentrates are highly concentrated forms of cannabis oil that contain compounds like cannabinoids and terpenes responsible for the various effects of cannabis.
• The most popular types of cannabis extracts include cannabis oil distillate, live resin, live rosin, bubble hash and THCa diamonds.
• Cannabis extracts can be consumed using a dab rig, concentrate vaporizer or smoked when placed on dried flower.
• The cannabis concentrate market is one of the fastest growing segments of the legal cannabis industry.

Understanding Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates, also known as marijuana concentrates or cannabis extracts, are highly concentrated forms of cannabis resin.

This resin extracted from sticky, resinous cannabis flower (aka cannabis buds) is rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, the compounds responsible for the plant’s unique effects, aroma and flavor.

These potent cannabis extracts come in a variety of textures and consistencies, including cannabis oil, depending on the production process and extraction method used.

As we mentioned, cannabis buds are the primary source material for producing cannabis extract. Some extraction methods use cannabis flower that’s freshly frozen after harvest, while a different production process will use plant material that’s been dried and cured.

But what are these different extraction methods, and how do they shape the final product?

There are three main extraction methods that contribute to the production process: butane extraction, CO2 extraction and solventless extraction. Not all concentrates are created equal, and each contains its own benefits and drawbacks.

Let’s delve a bit deeper into these different extraction methods to gain a better understanding of how they influence the types of cannabis concentrates.

Butane Extraction

Butane extraction uses butane as a solvent to extract cannabis oil from plant material. This popular extraction method produces cannabis extracts like butane hash oil (BHO), shatter, wax and budder.

To ensure that products made from butane are safe to consume, the cannabis oil goes through a filtration process after it’s extracted known as “purging.” This strips away any remaining impurities and unwanted plant matter, leaving only the compounds (terpenes and cannabinoids) that contribute to high-quality concentrates.

Butane has been used for decades to create butane hash oil, but is also popular in the production of other extracts. When extracted correctly, butane hash oil and other extracts created from butane are considered some of the best concentrates you can find.

Whether you prefer wax concentrates or lean towards more brittle consistencies like shatter, you’ll find a wide variety of different forms of concentrates created from butane.

CO2 Extraction

CO2 extraction uses carbon dioxide to create cannabis oil and cannabis extracts. It’s widely used in the cannabis industry, offering a pure and flavorful product that is commonly used to create tinctures, pre-filled vape cartridges, vape pens and other products.

While CO2 extracts in vape cartridges and other products can be a bit pricey, they’re extremely popular in the cannabis community and many consumers find the enhanced flavor and purity worth the extra cost.

Ultimately, the choice between CO2 extraction and other methods comes down to personal preference and the desired final product.

Solventless Extraction

Solventless extraction doesn’t rely on solvents to produce marijuana concentrates, resulting in the purest types of cannabis concentrates available. Solventless extracts such as rosin and bubble hash offer an alternative to solvent-based wax concentrates like butane hash oil, resin, budder and shatter.

Instead, the solventless extraction process uses things like heat and pressure or ice water filtration to create concentrates. Without the use of solvents, this production process results in a much more natural and chemical-free product.

Bubble hash, cannabis rosin, ice wax and live rosin are all different types of cannabis concentrates created from cannabis buds without solvents.

Solventless extracts are considered some of the highest-quality concentrates, prized amongst health-conscious consumers in the cannabis community seeking the purest products they can find. Solventless extraction retains the plant’s original cannabinoids and terpenes while avoiding the potential risks associated with solvents.

If you’re interested in the purest types of cannabis concentrates made without chemical solvents, extracts like ice wax, bubble hash and live rosin are definitely ones to consider.

Popular Types of Cannabis Concentrates

Now that you’re well-versed in various extraction methods, let’s look at some of the most popular types of cannabis concentrates available on the market.

Shatter, wax, THCA diamonds, crumble, live rosin, live resin, and budder each have their own unique characteristics and consumer experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis pro or you’re just stepping foot on your journey into the world of different cannabis concentrates, there’s a product out there to suit your preferences and desired effects.

Shatter

Shatter is a glass-like, stable concentrate with a brittle consistency known for its purity and potency. First introduced to the mainstream market around 10 years ago, it was one of the first concentrate types that was made as a butane hash oil.

Shatter is the OG of concentrates on dispensary shelves, one of the first real concentrates used for dabbing, which involves heating a small amount of an extract on a heated surface known as a dab nail and inhaling the resulting vapor.

Shatter’s smooth, clear and solid consistency sets it apart from other concentrates, and its high THC content delivers a powerful and satisfying experience. When it comes to quality, a light yellow shatter is preferred. Darker shatter is typically considered lower-quality and may contain residual impurities from the extraction process.

Always make sure you choose a reputable source for your shatter to ensure you’re getting the highest quality concentrate available.

Wax

Wax is another popular type of cannabis concentrate that comes in various consistencies, such as budder, sugar wax and shatter. Wax concentrates are produced by extracting THC and other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant using solvents like butane or CO2.

Wax is commonly used for dabbing or vaping, making products like dab pens designed for wax concentrates and other concentrates a popular option for cannabis consumers.

The different varieties of wax concentrates, such as budder and sugar wax, offer unique textures and flavors, allowing consumers to choose a product based on your personal preference. As with any concentrate, it’s crucial to purchase wax from a legit, trustworthy brand to ensure a high-quality, safe experience.

Diamonds

Diamonds, commonly referred to crystalline, are concentrates that look just like real diamonds. Of the many forms of cannabis extracts, diamonds offer the most visually appeal. They’re also incredibly potent, potentially reaching up to 99.9% THC upon heating.

The visual appeal of THC diamonds lies in their crystal-like structure, similar to small quartz crystals, and their color, which can range from transparent to opaque yellow.

While diamonds are pure, isolated THC or CBD, adding a terpene sauce to the mix creates another popular product known as diamonds and sauce.

Although diamonds are often more expensive than other concentrates, their impressive potency and stunning appearance make them wildly popular.

Crumble

Crumble, sometimes referred to as honeycomb, is a powdery or crumbly concentrate that can be smoked alone or added to flowers. Its unique texture makes it easy to handle and consume, perfect for those new to concentrates using nectar collectors or a dab rig for the first time.

Silicone containers or glass jars should be used to store crumble, as keeping the concentrate in something like parchment paper or a plastic baggie might cause it disintegrate.

Crumble’s versatility allows users to experiment with different consumption methods, whether it’s smoked on its own or with cannabis flower for an even more potent experience.

Live Rosin

Live rosin is a solventless concentrate made from fresh, frozen cannabis buds, which produces a high-quality product with a strong terpene profile.

Live rosin, not to be confused with live resin, is created using heat and pressure to extract essential oils, terpenes, and cannabinoids from the plant material onto parchment paper (or something similar).

It’s called “live” rosin because it’s made with freshly harvested cannabis flowers, rather than buds that are dried and cured. The result is a more flavorful and potent extract.

Live rosin has become extremely popular among cannabis connoisseurs who value a pure product with a strong terpene profile. Its unique properties make it a top choice for those seeking a premium cannabis concentrate.

Live Resin

Live resin is another type of cannabis concentrate extracted from freshly frozen flowers, providing another option for those seeking a refined taste and high terpene content.

Unlike live rosin, live resin is created using solvent-based extraction methods. Its unique extraction process results in a product that is rich in flavor and aroma, offering an enjoyable experience for consumers who appreciate quality.

The extract is commonly used to create other products, such as live resin gummies and live resin carts, both of which are extremely popular on the mainstream market.

While live resin may be pricier than other concentrates, its enhanced taste and terpene content make it a popular choice for those willing to invest in a high-quality product. If you’re looking for a refined cannabis experience with a strong flavor profile, definitely give live resin a go.

Budder

Budder is a taffy-like concentrate that is created using solvents like butane or CO2 to extract THC and other cannabinoids from marijuana buds.

This concentrate has a higher terpene profile than other concentrates and contains a unique cake batter texture.

Budder is perfect for using with a nectar collector, and is another popular option when choosing between different types of cannabis extracts.

Different Ways To Consume Cannabis Concentrates

Now that you’re familiar with the various types of cannabis concentrates, it’s time to explore the different ways to consume them.

Dabbing, vaping and adding concentrates to joints or blunts are all popular ways to get your concentrate experience on. Like different types of cannabis products, each concentrate consumption method offers its own unique experience, allowing you to tailor your cannabis use to your own unique personality and needs.

Dabbing is a popular method of consuming concentrates, typically involving a rig, a dab nail or banger, and a dabbing tool.

Some users also opt for a nectar collector, a dabbing tool that resembles a straw, which can be heated and used to melt concentrates while inhaling the resulting vapor.

Vaping, on the other hand, involves using a cartridge containing cannabis concentrate and a battery for heating. Vape pens and carts designed for concentrates are user-friendly options that make concentrate consumption accessible to anyone.

Another option is to add concentrates to joints, blunts or a bowl with your favorite flower, which enhances the potency and flavor of your smoking sesh. It also allows you to maintain and enjoy the familiar ritual of smoking.

No matter which method you choose, always start with a small amount of concentrate and adjust accordingly to find the perfect dose for your needs.

The Pros and Cons of Using Concentrates

Like all cannabis products, cannabis concentrates offer some serious benefits, as well as potential drawbacks.

They’re super potent, which is great for those looking for an elevated experience. Keep in mind, though, that too much THC isn’t always a good thing. Overconsumption can cause adverse effects like anxiety and paranoia.

If your concentrate was made with chemical solvents, you also run into the possibility of exposure to chemical contaminants that remain in the product after extraction.

One of the primary concerns with concentrates is the potential for exposure to residual solvents or other impurities during the extraction process. To minimize this risk, always purchase concentrates from a reputable source that uses third party lab testing.

Overall, the decision to use cannabis concentrates comes down to personal preferences, desired effects, and your tolerance.

By educating yourself about the various types of concentrates and their potential benefits and drawbacks, you can make the best decision that best suits your canna consumption needs and desires.

Selecting the Right Concentrate for You

With so many options available, how do you choose the right concentrate for you?

Are you looking for potency and euphoria? If so, you may want to choose a concentrate high in THC. On the flip side, if you’re looking for therapeutic relief without the euphoric feeling, consider a concentrate high in CBD.

Ultimately, the most effective way to determine the cannabis concentrate best for you is to experiment with different types and observe their effects on your body and mind. Fun and educational, this will allow you to discover new aspects of the cannabis world and fine-tune your experience.

The Future of Cannabis Concentrates

As the cannabis market continues to grow, so too does the world of cannabis concentrates.

With a market projection of over $3 billion USD by 2030, the concentrates market is poised for serious sustained growth in the coming years.

The increasing popularity of cannabis concentrates is also driven by their versatility and potency, with products that can be consumed through smoking, vaping, or incorporated into edibles and topicals.

As extraction methods continue to advance and the market expands, there’s no doubt that cannabis concentrates will play a significant role in the future of the cannabis industry.

Wrapping Up

We hope this comprehensive guide to cannabis concentrates has offered the valuable insight it was intended to into the vast cannabis concentrate world.

With so many types of concentrates available and various consumption methods to explore, there’s truly something for everyone in this exciting industry sector.

As you embark on your journey, remember to experiment with different products, listen to your body and always prioritize safety and quality. May you continue to discover new heights!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of concentrate is best?

It all comes down to personal preference. Many forms are available and the best type is based on your own unique needs and desires.

What is the cleanest form of concentrate?

The cleanest concentrates are those produced without solvents, meaning solventless extracts like live rosin, rosin, bubble hash and ice wax are typically the purest.

What is the best concentrate for beginners?

For beginners, the most recommended concentrate is something easy to use like budder. Purchasing concentrate vape carts and vape pens also offer a straightforward experience.

What are the main extraction methods for cannabis concentrates?

The main extraction methods for cannabis concentrates are butane hash oil (BHO), CO2 extraction, and solventless techniques like ice water extraction.

What are the differences between shatter, wax and budder?

Shatter is glass-like, wax is soft and pliable and budder is taffy-like, offering distinct textures and consumption experiences.