What Effects Can I Expect From Cannabis Concentrates?

There are negative consequences to marijuana use in any form, but more research is needed to understand how the use of concentrate differs from smoking dried marijuana buds. THC levels in marijuana concentrates are extremely high. THC levels in solvent-based products have been documented at an average of about 54-69 percent and have been reported to exceed 80 percent, whereas THC levels in non-solvent-based extraction methods have been documented at 39-60 percent. In comparison, the THC content of marijuana plant material, which is commonly used in marijuana cigarettes, is lower, with samples seized by the US Drug Enforcement Agency averaging slightly more than 15%. Concentrates not only have high THC levels, but dabbers inhale the entire amount all at once—in a single breath.  As a result, concentrates can quickly deliver extremely high levels of THC to the body. Exposure to high concentrations of THC increases the risk of physical dependence and addiction, and higher doses of THC are more likely to cause anxiety, agitation, paranoia, and psychosis.  More research is required to determine how the use of concentrate affects these risks.

Furthermore, contaminants in concentrate products may be a source of concern. According to one study, 80% of tested concentrate samples were contaminated in some way, not only with pesticides (which are also a concern for dried bud), but also with residual solvents that were not fully purged during the manufacturing process. Users of BHO, for example, are likely to inhale butane and other impurities in addition to the vaporized THC. 2 It is important to note that among recreational inhalant users, direct inhalation of concentrated butane carries a number of risks, including reported deaths. However, it is unclear what negative health outcomes result from the inhalation of residual butane, other solvents, or leftover contaminants during the dabbing process.

Cannabis Concentrates: 5 Things You May Not Know

If you’re new to the medical marijuana world, you may be wondering what cannabis concentrates are. And if you’ve been using concentrates for a while, you’re probably already familiar with them. Medical marijuana concentrates are created through an extraction process that removes unnecessary plant matter such as stems and leaves while preserving the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the original marijuana plant. Concentrates come in a variety of forms, including oils, wax, glass, shatter, and oral drops. Continue reading to discover 5 facts about cannabis concentrates that you may not be aware of.

Cannabis Concentrates Are Made from Frosty Strings

Concentrates are made from the trichomes of the medical marijuana plant, which are the tiny crystals that cover your dry leaf. These tiny, sticky, heavenly-smelling crystals resemble frost-covered strings. Cannabinoids (CBD, THC, and so on) and terpenes are found within these trichomes. Terpenes produce distinct aromas and effects in all medical marijuana strains. Trichomes contain all of the active ingredients that allow you to benefit from the effects of medical marijuana.

Not All Concentrates Are Extracts

Although all extracts are concentrates, not all concentrates are extracts. What’s the distinction? The process of obtaining trichomes, the above-mentioned frosty strings. To extract the trichomes, extracts are made with alcohol, carbon dioxide, and other solvents. Rosin, dry sift, and kief are examples of cannabis concentrates that are not extracts. Straight concentrates are made by physically removing the plant’s trichomes.

There are a Variety of Concentrate Textures

Cannabis concentrates come in a variety of textures. Shatter is a texture that can be brittle, similar to glass, and can be “shattered” into several pieces. Wax is similar to shatter in appearance, but it is much softer and sticky to the touch. Concentrates can also be battered or buttered. These are simple to work with and will remind you of cake batter. Crumble is a texture that does exactly what it sounds like: it falls apart or “crumbles’ ‘ when handled. Concentrates are also available in sugar, which has a texture similar to wet table sugar, and sauce, which has a sticky, liquid texture. The final texture is crystalline, which are crystals made from the trichomes and sometimes called “diamonds”.

Cannabis Concentrates Have a High Potency

Did you know that there are advantages to using concentrates? The potency of cannabis concentrates is one of its advantages. THCa content in dry leaf ranges between 10 and 25 percent. Concentrates can have THCa potency percentages ranging from 50 to 90 percent. This article will explain the distinction between THCa and THC. It’s best to speak with licensed medical marijuana pharmacists or Patient Care Consultants (PCC) about concentrates at any of our PA medical marijuana dispensaries to get the best recommendation for you.

There are Multiple Ways to Ingest Concentrates

If you’re reading this, you’re probably interested in learning how to inhale concentrates. Cartridges, pods, and disposable pens contain pre-filled mouthpieces that are heated by a battery to vaporize the medication. Vape pens are frequently described as a more discrete option that is also easier to use for beginners. Other vaping tips for beginners are available on our website. All other concentrates, such as shatter and budder, will necessitate the use of a vaporization device. Cannabis concentrates are just one of the ways you can get medical marijuana. If you like the idea of concentrates but prefer an edible form, check out this link for concentrates that can be consumed instead.

It’s important to educate yourself on the available types of medical marijuana so that you can have informed conversations with your pharmacist or PCC at your local medical marijuana dispensaries.