How to Use Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates are highly potent and probably not discussed enough. They’re available in many different forms, consistencies, and flavors. Some are live, others cured, and cannabis consumers have multiple ways to enjoy them. Yet even the most experienced enthusiasts can find the diverse world of concentrates a bit overwhelming, at least at first.
When you stop by Superior Dispensary in West Phoenix, our budtenders are happy to explain the finer points of our chiller selection. That’s just how we roll. Until then, you may find it helpful to explore what concentrates are, how they compare to extracts, and which consumption methods you might prefer. We’ll be happy to answer your questions when we see you in person.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
To concentrate weed, manufacturers first separate the plant’s trichomes (think of these like small hairs covering the leaves of the plant) from any unwanted components and the extract is condensed. Some processes concentrate weed in a way that preserves all the active plant elements in the same ratio nature intended, others in a way that delivers high concentrations of a single cannabinoid, THC.
Concentrates can be thick and sticky, wax-like, granular, or liquid.
Although there are numerous varieties, they’re routinely classified as solvent-based or solventless and identified by their texture and appearance. “Shatter,” for example, is translucent and brittle, while “budder” and “badder” are soft. They have a somewhat oily texture.
How THC Concentrates Are Used
There’s no single method of consuming cannabis concentrates. For some cannabis users, adding a potent concentrate to a joint or topping a one-hitter is ideal. Others prefer keeping things simple by applying some concentrate under their tongue. Although only you can decide which consumption methods suit you best, you may find it helpful to explore the following options.
Vaping THC Concentrates
Vaping provides a more flavorful experience than smoking because it eliminates the need for ignition, meaning there’s no smoke or immediate aroma after having a puff.
Cannabis consumers at Superior have several device styles to choose from, including the option of using a personal dab pen for waxes, a disposable vape pen, or attaching a prefilled live resin cartridge to a rechargeable battery.
Applying THC Concentrates Topically
Applying concentrates topically will not have a psychogenic effect because the THC applied to the surface of your skin doesn’t absorb into your bloodstream. However, you could find topical applications ideal for targeting stiff muscles or aching joints when you don’t want the high.
Adding Concentrates to Recipes
With concentrates, it’s easy to make THC-infused edibles using some of your favorite recipes. Simply add your serving size of choice to the mix before cooking or baking. The effects of your edibles can last up to eight hours. If you’d rather preserve the flavor and aroma of your creations, use a concentrated THC distillate. They’re flavorless and odorless.
Dabbing Wax Concentrates
Dabbing is a consumption method similar to vaping. You can use a battery-powered “dabbing” device like the units typically sold in vape shops or a more “traditional” dabbing method involving the use of a nail and torch. The consumption process involves placing a small amount of concentrate on a heat-safe surface with a dab tool and then using a torch or lighter to vaporize the wax.
How Concentrates Compare to Extracts
Cannabis consumers often use the terms extract and concentrate interchangeably. But they’re not the same. Extraction separates the desired plant components from the unwanted biomass, meaning extracts are the products resulting from that process. Cannabis concentrates are typically made from cannabis extract, but they’re further refined in a way that results in THC concentrations (considerably) higher than the original plant source.
Where to Find Superior Concentrates in Arizona
In Arizona, you’ll find superior cannabis concentrates at our retail location in West Phoenix near Toleson & Levine. From the moment you walk through our doors, you can count on a world-class, full-service shopping experience.
Our knowledgeable budtenders are well-versed in the finer points of cannabis use and will help you find the best strains, product types, and consumption methods for your medical or recreational needs.
At Superior Dispensary, our buyers have access to some of the best lab-tested medical and adult-use cannabis products available.
Our impressive inventory is a lot more affordable than you might expect, and we’ll be here to help you navigate the very best of what Mother Nature has to offer.
