Cannabis Concentrates 101: Wax, Shatter, Live Resin and More

Cannabis concentrates pack a powerful punch. Here's everything you need to know à peu près this potent product category.

What Are Concentrates?

Concentrates are products made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plants, resulting in a product that's 60-90% THC (compared to flower's 15-25%).

Types of Concentrates

Wax/Budder

• Creamy, opaque consistency
• Easy to handle
• Good flavor
• 70-80% THC

Shatter

• Glass-like, transparent
• Breaks like hard candy
• Stable and long-lasting
• 70-80% THC

Live Resin

• Made from fresh-frozen plants
• Superior terpene profile
• Best flavor
• Premium price point
• 70-85% THC

Crumble

• Dry, crumbly texture
• Easy to portion
• Good for beginners
• 70-80% THC

Sauce/Terp Sauce

• Liquid with crystal formations
• Incredibly flavorful
• High terpene content
• 50-70% THC, high terpenes

Diamonds

• Pure THCA crystals
• Highest potency
• 90%+ THC
• Often paired with terp sauce

How to Consume Concentrates

Dabbing (most common)

• Requires a dab rig or e-nail
• Instant, powerful effects
• Most efficient method

Vaporizing

• Use a concentrate-specific vape pen
• More portable than dabbing
• Lower temperature = better flavor

Adding to Flower

• Sprinkle on top of a bowl
• Roll into a joint
• Enhances potency

Beginner Tips

• Start with a tiny amount (rice grain size)
• Concentrates are 3-4x stronger than flower
• Effects hit faster than edibles (instant-5 min)
• Duration: 1-3 hours
• Store in cool, dark place
• Invest in quality equipment for best experience

Safety Considerations

• Only buy from licensed dispensaries
• Check for lab testing results
• Avoid products with solvents or contaminants
• Don't drive or operate machinery
• Have water and snacks nearby
• Start low and go slow!