Potent, pure, and oh-so-exciting, cannabis concentrates are among the most in-demand products at our family of Montana dispensaries. Rather than being a single type of product, concentrates represent a diverse world of textures, flavors, and experiences. They’re powerful, and usually best suited for experienced consumers.
If you’re curious about the world of THC concentrate, we’ve got you covered. From how they’re made to how to enjoy them safely, this guide is packed with the essentials, including:
- What are cannabis concentrates?
- What are the different types of cannabis concentrates?
- How do you consume cannabis concentrates?
- What are some tips for consuming cannabis concentrates?
…and much more. And since we make our own concentrates right here in Montana using small-batch, hand-crafted methods, we know what we’re talking about.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are products made by isolating the most desirable compounds—THC, CBD, and aromatic terpenes—from cannabis flower. The result? Exceptional potency and an intense flavor. Unlike traditional flower, which contains a broad mix of plant material, concentrates are designed to deliver a high-impact experience in a smaller, more refined form. These products come in a variety of consistencies and strengths, catering to everyone from seasoned dabbers to medical patients seeking targeted relief. Whether you’re drawn to the pure THC punch of a distillate or the terpene-rich complexity of live rosin, there’s a concentrate for nearly every kind of cannabis enthusiast.
At Seed of Life Labs, we cultivate premium cannabis at our state-of-the-art facility in Billings. Every step is performed by hand, utilizing natural methods and adhering to rigorous quality standards. From selecting phenotypes to final packaging, our team focuses on craftsmanship and consistency. This hands-on approach not only supports our local community but ensures that every concentrate we produce is clean, potent, and crafted with purpose.
How Is THC Concentrate Extracted From the Plant?
There are many cannabis concentrates, each with its own unique features, consistencies, and effects. The distinctive characteristics in each one are typically due to the method used for extraction. There are two main extraction methods:
- Solvent-based extraction: Uses solvents like CO2 or butane to remove cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material. Afterwards, the product is purged to ensure safety and purity.
- Solventless extraction: Uses heat and pressure—no chemicals involved. While generally less potent, solventless options like rosin offer rich flavor and a more natural approach.
Is one better than the other? Using sophisticated closed-loop systems, solvent-based extractions typically yield greater potency and purity. Some products from solvent-based methods—such as THCA diamonds—can reach between 96% and 99.9% THC.
What’s the Difference Between Concentrates and Extracts?
While the terms “concentrate” and “extract” are often used interchangeably, there are slight differences to be aware of. While all extracts are concentrates, not all concentrates are extracts.
- Extracts: Use solvents, such as those we mentioned earlier, to remove compounds like THC and volatile terpenes from plant matter.
- Concentrates: Separate and collect the most potent parts of the plant matter, typically the glistening trichomes that cover high-quality flower. This results in products such as rosin and hash, which are distinctly different in character from solventless products like wax or shatter.
Understanding these nuances not only helps consumers make informed decisions but also empowers them to explore the full range of experiences that cannabis concentrates have to offer.
Different Types of Cannabis Concentrates
Given that all concentrates are made from a single type of plant, it’s truly astonishing how varied the world of cannabis concentrates can get. Here’s a breakdown of popular types you’ll find at our dispensaries:
Wax
A long-running customer favorite, this solvent-based extract has a semi-soft, spreadable texture that makes it easy to work with. Expect a potency that can reach as high as 90%, along with good shelf stability and flavor.
Shatter
While similar to wax in that it’s a solvent-based extract with a similar THC content, shatter has an entirely different consistency. Taking the form of glass- or candy-like shards, it may be easier and cleaner to use in dab rigs and similar devices.
Crumble
Crumble has a drier consistency that some find easier to work with. As with wax, you can expect a potency in the 80 – 90% range and an appealing, terpene-rich flavor.
Live Rosin
If you see the word “live” in the name of a cannabis concentrate, it means it’s been made with just-picked, flash-frozen cannabis flowers, which preserves an unusually high proportion of aromatic terpenes. As a result, this dense, high-quality solventless concentrate boasts a truly phenomenal flavor profile, along with high potency in the 60 – 90% range.
Resin Sauce
A relatively newer entry into the world of cannabis concentrates, resin sauce consists of extremely potent THCA diamonds submerged in a terpene-rich “sauce” that delivers exceptional flavors and aromas. It’s typically made from live resin. As a result, you can expect the best of both worlds: exceptional potency and intense flavors and aromas.
Distillate
Created by a process that isolates and concentrates cannabinoids, what distillate lacks in flavor (it contains no terpenes), it makes up for with impressive purity and versatility. You’ll find it in gummies, infused pre-rolls, or anywhere else a burst of clean potency may be desirable.
Kief
As the collected and dried trichomes of the cannabis plant, the miniature “medicine factories” where the bulk of the cannabinoids and terpenes are made, kief is the essential building block of the ancient THC concentrate known as hash. On its own, it adds a decent hit of potency—between 50% and 80%—and an earthy flavor to joints, bowls, or enjoyed on its own.
Bubble Hash
A specialized form of hash, this concentrate uses ice water and filters to separate the trichomes from cannabis. As a result, this simple solventless concentrate has a different, more pebbly texture and greater purity than traditional hash.
Moonrocks
This intriguing product is made by coating cannabis flower with cannabis oil and then rolling it in kief. Consumed in a joint, pipe, or water pipe (bong), they have considerable potency and a more rounded, earthy flavor compared with regular flower.
How Do You Consume Cannabis Concentrates?
While consuming some concentrates is as easy as chewing a gummy, other forms require specialized equipment and some prep work:
Dab Rigs
A dab rig is a specialized device somewhat akin to a high-tech pipe. While it takes some practice to master, when used with the correct techniques, it delivers an intensely flavorful hit that captures the full potency and complexity of cannabis concentrates.
Joints or Bowls
Depending on their consistency, some cannabis concentrates can be added directly to the flower in joints or bowls for an extra kick of flavor and potency. While not as precise as using a dab rig, this can enhance the overall experience without special tools.
Cannabis Concentrate Vape Devices
Some specialized vapes are designed for the unique requirements of cannabis concentrates. If they include a temperature control, it can be a great way to enjoy smooth, consistent hits without the need for additional gear.
Edibles
Increasingly, cannabis edibles manufacturers are highlighting the flavor and potency of THC concentrate in edibles such as gummies, chocolates, and mints. While the effects take longer to kick in, they also last much longer than with inhaled cannabis, in some cases up to six hours or more.
Tips for Consuming Concentrates
While concentrates and extracts offer a special blend of effects and flavors, their strong potency demands caution, especially for newer cannabis users. At Seed of Life, we always recommend the “start low and go slow” approach. Begin with a small amount and see how you feel before consuming more.
Finally, be sure to only buy cannabis concentrate from a trusted source such as Seed of Life. When you buy from unlicensed or black-market sources, you can’t be sure the product is chemically pure or that the contents even match their label. When in doubt, just ask! Our team is always here to answer your questions.
Shop Montana’s Favorite Concentrates at Seed of Life
If you love the flavors and effects of cannabis but want to take your experience to the next level, cannabis concentrates might be right for you, and we’re here to help. We’re Montana’s go-to source for high-quality, small-batch cannabis concentrates. Whether you’re seeking next-level potency or exploring new flavor profiles, our hand-crafted concentrates deliver. And with locations across the state, expert guidance is always nearby.
Curious to try for yourself? Visit your local Seed of Life Labs dispensary and ask about our latest drops. Let’s elevate your experience—together.
