Are you a tried-and-true leaf person curious about making the jump the dabs? Here are five reasons to consider making the switch to concentrates.

The world of cannabis has only gotten bigger in recent years. Consumers have a dizzying array of products to choose from, including edibles, tinctures, and concentrates such as wax or vaporizer liquid. Many people also still enjoy smoking marijuana in its classic flower form. But did you know that there are actually quite a few upsides to switching over to a concentrate? If you’re looking for a good reason to switch, we’ve got five right of them. Read on for more!

WHAT ARE CONCENTRATES?

Much like making green butter in the days of yore, concentrates are made by extracting cannabinoids such as THC and CBD from the raw cannabis plant. This extract makes for a much more potent experience, as you are getting more of the good stuff (and none of the filler) with every hit.

The majority of modern cannabis concentrates are made using a chemical extraction process involving hydrocarbons such as butane, alcohol, and heat. Concentrate extraction can produce a wide variety of different textures. This is why you’ve likely heard of things like wax, shatter, oil, sap, and honeycomb. In essence, they are all different names for the same thing, with each category referring to a concentrate’s given texture.

The wide variety of concentrate textures means that there are a number of different ways you can use them. Oils and certain waxes, for example, are often used in vaporizers and even come in pre-filled cartridges, while shatter is best suited for dab rigs.

HOW ARE CONCENTRATES USED?

The two most popular forms of vaporizing concentrates are in a dedicated vaporizer or in a dab rig. Vaporizers come in many shapes, sizes, and forms. Some resemble e-cigarettes and look like pens, while others are larger, handheld devices. There are even tabletop rigs for those seriously committed to the cause.

Vaporizers are also designed to handle different types of concentrate, depending on user preference. Some units use oils and thin waxes in cartridges, while others use a liquid tank or feature an “oven” for vaporizing harder shatters and waxes.

Dab rigs, by comparison, bear a closer resemblance to bongs, and actually function in a very similar way by using water to cool the vaporized concentrate before it enters your lungs. With dab rigs, a butane torch lighter is used to vaporize the concentrate, which sticks on the end of a glass or metal “nail.” The user then heats the nail before ultimately sucking the vapor through the water pipe portion.

CONCENTRATES VS. FLOWER

Most smokers are familiar with cannabis flower: you roll it in a joint, put it in a bong or pipe, light it on fire, and inhale the smoke. Concentrates, however, are generally not smoked. Instead, they are vaporized in pens or by use of a dab rig. In addition, there are quite a few benefits to switching from flower to concentrates. Let’s dive in deeper!

1. Concentrates Are More Potent

Cannabis concentrates like wax can contain up to 90% THC, which is significantly higher than even the most potent leaf strains! Because concentrates are so potent, you won’t need to use nearly as much of them to get the same effect. This makes concentrates cheaper in the long run, even if the initial cost can seem higher on a gram-for-gram level. New cannabis users should also know in advance that the potency of concentrates can be very strong for people who have yet to develop a tolerance. Even regular leaf smokers may find that concentrates pack a heavy punch. Dabs tend to be even stronger than other forms of vaporizing, so bear that in mind if you are thinking of giving concentrates a try. 

2. Concentrates Are Healthier

We’ve known for a long time that inhaling smoke isn’t really the best thing for our bodies. Even though cannabis smoke is less toxic than cigarettes, it can still contain carcinogens and burning plant material. Since concentrates are vaporized, nothing burns. That’s because the temperature of vapor is just high enough to release cannabinoids, but not to burn them. This means less toxic smoke entering your lungs, which is always a good thing. Additionally, if you are looking for concentrates that are not made using a chemical process, take a dive into the world of water-extracted hash oils.

3. Ease of Use

One of the things that cannabis leaf proponents state as a major reason for continuing to smoke is the ritual. Without question, grinding up leaf material, painstakingly rolling it in a joint (or loading a bowl), and smoking it has a certain charm. But if you’re looking for something that’s a lot less fuss and mess, concentrates are the way to go. A visit to your local cannabis dispensary will likely yield many options available for your specific needs. Handheld concentrate vaporizers, in particular, have a lot to offer in terms of ease-of-use. You can even buy concentrates in pre-loaded cartridges, eliminating the need to fidget with anything other than attaching a new cartridge.

4. Better Taste

There used to be a valid argument that smoking or vaporizing leaf material just tasted better than concentrates. The reason? Back in the early days, the extraction process involved taking out all terpenes, which are what give cannabis its distinct flavor. Terpenes are also believed to contribute to the effects of a given strain, which is why modern concentrate makers have begun adding terpenes and other flavors back into their extracts. This actually makes for a much stronger and more refined taste — should you wish for it. If not, there’s also something for those who do not enjoy the flavors of weed: unflavored concentrates that have virtually no smell or taste. Whatever your preference, there’s a concentrate for you!

5. Stealth

There are many reasons why someone may not want everyone around them to know they are smoking cannabis. Apartment buildings, crowded public areas, and other places where the smell of cannabis may not be tolerated used to be off-limits. However, vaporizing concentrates does not create that well-known “weed” smell, as nothing burns in the process. And, as we mentioned earlier, you can even get concentrates that have no distinct odor or flavor at all. Another point in the stealth column is that vaporizers made for consuming concentrates are often very small and discreet, making it easy to take a toke or two on your lunch break without having to carry around a dab rig or be subject to questioning looks.

Cannabis Concentrates: Where To Buy

We offer a huge array of cannabis products, including a wide selection of concentrates, vaporizers, and dab rig accessories. Make sure to check out our weekly deals, and feel free to call us at (408) 456-0420 if you have any questions. Our knowledgeable staff can help direct you to the perfect products for your needs.