THC Concentrates 101: Things To Know Before Buying

Posted on: 27 June 2019

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One of the greatest changes, since so many states have decided to go weed-legal, is the fact that you can now find cannabis-related products in many different forms. THC concentrate is just one way cannabis is taking on a new form and is a really interesting group of products. Take a quick look at some of the things you should know about these concentrates. 

What is the difference between a concentrate and an extract?

In a general sense, extracts are a type of concentrate. Concentrates are created in different ways but they will hold the most valuable components of a cannabis plant, such as the THC or CBD and the flavonoids. Extracts are actually derived from the plant or plant pieces, with a chemical or another solvent process. For example, if you find a THC extract, it may have been extracted through a CO2-extraction method. 

How many different THC concentrates are there?

There are quite a few different types of THC concentrates, but some of the most common are: 

Sauce - A fluid-like substance containing THC

Shatter - A hard crystal material with an amber hue

Budder - A butter-consistency product that is creamy in consistency

All concentrates have different methods behind them, when it comes to how they are created, so they can have very different appearances. 

How do you use THC concentrates?

THC concentrates can be used in a multitude of ways, depending on the type. Some concentrates are designed for basic smoking in a pipe, such as THC dabs or shatter. Some concentrates are perfect for incorporating into edible products. For instance, THC budder may be used to make brownies or other baked goods. Some concentrates get incorporated into products by manufacturers, such as a concentrate used to incorporate into a THC topical lotion for pain and inflammation. 

What is different about using a concentrate instead of using the flower?

Using the cannabis flower for smoking is the most traditional way to consume THC, but concentrates open up a new world of ways to use the product. You can experiment with things like dabbing nails, vape pens, and other devices. Another thing to keep in mind, when using a concentrated THC product, is that potency levels are much stronger than what they would be with the plant. Therefore, it is best to follow usage guidelines on product packages or get some professional advice from your local dispensary.