Concentrates 101: Small Dose, Big Impact
It’s officially July 10th, or 710 Day, the unofficial holiday that flips “OIL” upside down and celebrates one of the most powerful ways to consume cannabis: concentrates. But what exactly are concentrates, and why do they deserve their own day on the calendar?
Let’s break it down.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are exactly that: concentrated, potent extracts from the cannabis plant. They isolate the most active parts of the flower, cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), and terpenes and flavonoids, leaving behind the excess plant material.
If cannabis flower is a full cup of coffee, concentrates are the espresso shot — smaller, stronger, and more direct.
How Are They Made?
There are two big camps in the world of concentrates: Solvent-Based and Solventless.
Solvent-Based Extracts
These concentrates are made using approved solvents, such as butane, propane, CO₂, or ethanol, to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. The solvents are then carefully removed and purged in a highly controlled laboratory environment, resulting in a clean, high-purity, concentrated extract.
Popular types:
- Wax
- Shatter
- Live resin
- Cured resin
- Badder
- Crumble
- Distillate
- THC diamonds + terp sauce
Solventless Extracts
No solvents or chemicals, just ice, water, heat, and pressure. These are a go-to choice for those seeking a clean, concentrated, natural product with minimal inputs and processing.
Solventless types:
- Rosin
- Ice water hash
- Bubble hash
- Dry sift / kief
Why People Love Concentrates
1. Potency – Most concentrates pack 60–99% THC, in addition to elevated levels of other cannabinoids. Compare that to 15–30% in most flower. For medical patients, this means fast, effective relief for conditions such as chronic pain or insomnia.
2. Profile – Many high quality concentrates retain the plant’s natural terpene and cannabinoid profile, allowing for a fuller experience and effects that are tied to the original strain. This can help guide your selection based on your desired outcome.
3. Efficiency – A tiny dose = big results. For many concentrate users, this means less consumption, quicker onset, and better long-term value.
A Quick Word of Caution
Concentrates are not always beginner-strength. If you’re new, the old saying holds true: start low, go slow. A grain-of-rice-sized dose and taking your time can create a significantly better experience for those new to concentrates. If you still have mild reservations or find concentrates intimidating, we encourage you to talk to your dispensary team. They’ve seen it all, and are trained and willing to help find the right product for you and your therapeutic goals.
Ways to Use Concentrates (Approved Formats)
| Method | Purpose | Tools You’ll Need |
| Vaporization – Traditional | Rapid onset via thermal application | Dab rig, nail + torch (or e-rig) |
| Vaporization – Portable | Discreet, on-the-go activation | 510-thread battery or pod system |
| Topping Flower | Enhancing potency | Ground flower + concentrate |
| Oral Administration | Longer-lasting systemic effect | RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) |
Final Hit
Concentrates are where cannabis meets chemistry, a beautifully powerful and efficient way to explore the plant’s potential. Whether you’re managing symptoms, dialing in your preferred method of relief, or simply learning something new, there’s a concentrate out there that fits your needs. This is medicine. Or art. Or both. Either way, it deserves respect.
On July 10th this year, let’s celebrate the innovation, the craft, and the people making it all happen. Stay lifted, stay curious, and don’t forget to clean your rig!
