As cannabis products continue to evolve, terms like “concentrates” and “extracts” often appear. While they may seem interchangeable, there are key differences between the two, particularly in the way they are made and consumed. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right product for your needs.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Concentrates are highly potent forms of cannabis made by isolating the most valuable compounds from the plant, primarily THC, CBD, terpenes, and other cannabinoids. Unlike traditional flower, concentrates contain a significantly higher concentration of these compounds, offering a more intense effect with smaller doses.
Concentrates come in various forms, such as hash, hash rosin and live rosin. They can be consumed through vaping, dabbing, or sprinkling on a joint or bowl. Because they contain little to no plant material, concentrates provide a cleaner, more refined experience for cannabis users who prefer high potency.
What Are Cannabis Extracts?
Extracts, on the other hand, refer specifically to products created through solvent-based extraction methods. This means that a solvent, such as butane, CO2, or ethanol, is used to strip cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. Popular extracts include shatter, terp sauce and live resin.
CO2 extraction is one of the most popular methods for creating high-quality, solvent-free products. Extracts are versatile and can be used in edibles, topicals, or directly consumed via vaping or tinctures under the tongue.
Key Differences
- Concentrates refer to the potency of the product, while extracts describe how the cannabinoids are removed from the plant.
- Extracts often involve solvents, while some concentrates, like kief or rosin, do not.
- Rosin vs Resin what’s the difference? Rosin is a solventless extract, meaning it uses no chemicals for extraction. Resin is an extract, that uses butane to extract the cannabinoids, this is a solvent-based extract.
Whether you’re after potent effects or prefer a specific method of consumption, understanding these terms will help you find the right cannabis product for your needs.