Dabbing—the act of vaporizing strong cannabis extracts on a hot surface—is now a widely accepted consumption method among enthusiasts. The concentrated extracts of cannabis range from 60% to greater than 99% THC in concentration — as opposed to flower which is generally between 15% to 25% THC. Therefore, dabbing provides an exponentially stronger effect than smoking.
It is not merely about achieving a high, but rather about precision, taste and experiencing clean inhalation without burning the cannabis. There are numerous cannabis extracts available today, ranging from glass-like shatter to creamy budder — and this can be overwhelming. The purpose of this article is to help navigate the vast world of cannabis extracts and assist in choosing the right one for you.
What Exactly Are Dabs and Wax?
To get started, we need to define some of the terminology that can confuse new consumers.
- Concentrates & Extracts: All cannabis products containing cannabinoids and terpenes (the desirable compounds) that were removed from the cannabis plant material during processing and, therefore, represent a significantly stronger product than flower.
- Dabs: Specifically refers to a single dose of extract to consume through dabbing. Also, a verb to describe the act of dabbing.
- Wax: Describes one specific type of cannabis extract that has a soft, opaque and semi-pliable texture, somewhat resembling candle wax or ear wax. Wax is one of many materials you can "dab."
Types of Cannabis Wax Dabs Explained
The main categories of cannabis dabs will make navigating a dispensary menu much easier. Below is an overview of the most common types of cannabis dabs, along with their typical texture and appearance, average concentration of THCa, and the defining characteristics of each.
Premium and Specialized Extracts
There are multiple premium categories of cannabis dabs beyond the previously discussed categories that are valued for their unique production processes and/or desired effects.
- Live Resin vs. Live Rosin: While both products are made from fresh/frozen cannabis to retain terpenes, the two methods of extracting cannabis differ. Live resin uses a solvent (such as butane) to separate the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, while live rosin is a solventless cannabis extract produced through the application of heat and pressure to frozen hash. Live rosin is often priced higher than other cannabis extracts due to its "solvent free" appeal.
- THCa Diamonds & Sauce: Represent the pinnacle of refinement in cannabis extracts. THCa diamonds are nearly pure cannabinoid crystals (frequently above 99%), while the "sauce" is the extremely rich in terpenes liquid formed within the crystals. Often sold separately, the user can determine the desired ratio of potency to flavor.
- Rick Simpson Oil (RSO): Known for its high THC content and historic medicinal applications, RSO is a distinct full-plant cannabis extract. It is commonly a very dark, thick substance, and is most frequently consumed orally rather than through dabbing.
How to Choose: Matching Concentrates to Your Gear and Goals
Choose a cannabis dab that matches your equipment, experience level, and preferences regarding flavor, potency or usability.
- For Beginner: Begin with budder, badder or sugar wax. Their soft, pliable nature makes them easy to portion and they are easy to work with. Reliable, high-quality options include Raw Garden's Refined Live Resin and Mood's Tropical Storm Badder.
- For Flavor Chasers: Live resin is the winner when it comes to retaining flavor. The fresh-freeze process captures a diverse, complex terpene profile. High-end live resin products are offered by brands like Cannabiotix and 710 Labs.
- For Potency Purists: If you desire a dab that is high in potency, seek out THCa diamonds or high-test shatter. Diamonds, like those produced by Pistil Whip, are a highly pure isolate of the desired effect that you can combine with a terp sauce for customized flavor.
- For the Solvent-Conscious: Rosin is your best option. As a solventless cannabis extract, rosin appeals to those who want to avoid solvents and enjoy a "pure" product. Top-shelf rosin is produced by brands such as Mountain Man Melts and 710 Labs.
Finally, consider your device:
- E-Rigs/Pens (similar to Puffco): Function best with budder, live resin and sauce that vaporize at lower temperatures (450-550°F).
- Traditional Torch Rigs: Will function with all types of cannabis extracts — including shatter which may require a hotter nail (550-600°F).
- Nectar Collectors: Work best with stable textured cannabis extracts (such as crumble) which do not drip.
Conclusion
The extreme potency of cannabis extracts demand respect. First-time experiences consuming dabs result in numerous instances of severe coughing, anxiety, and being "paralyzed."
Ensure that the source of the product is legal and licensed. Black-market cannabis extracts can contain residual solvents and other contaminants. COA's (Certificates of Analysis) should always be provided by reputable manufacturers to prove the quality of the product.