Concentrates Guide
Your comprehensive guide to cannabis concentrates: extraction methods, types, potency levels, and safe consumption practices.
Shop ConcentratesCannabis concentrates are potent extracts containing high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. Modern extraction methods prioritize terpene preservation, with live rosin and hash rosin leading the premium market due to their purity and full-spectrum effects.
What Are Concentrates
Concentrates are products made by extracting and concentrating the active compounds (cannabinoids and terpenes) from cannabis flower. The result is a highly potent product that can contain 50-90%+ THC, compared to 15-25% in typical flower.
2-4x stronger than flower, allowing for smaller doses with stronger effects
When dabbed or vaporized, effects are felt almost immediately
Less plant material means less combustion byproducts when vaporized
Types of Concentrates
Live Rosin
70-85% THCPremium solventless extract from fresh-frozen hash. Pinnacle of terpene preservation with 2-4x higher terpene content than traditional methods.
Best for: Low-temp dabbing, cold-start dabs
Hash Rosin
75-90% THCHigh-quality bubble hash pressed with heat and pressure. Exceptional purity without solvents, popular in 2025 for clean effects.
Best for: Dabbing, vaporizing
Live Resin
65-85% THCFlash-frozen at harvest, extracted at -20°F to -80°F. Preserves up to 98% of volatile terpenes for full-spectrum effects.
Best for: Low-temp dabbing (285°C optimal)
HTFSE
50% THCA, 40% terpenesHigh Terpene Full Spectrum Extract. Ultra-high terpene content for maximum flavor and entourage effect. 2025's choice for connoisseurs.
Best for: Low-temp dabbing, vape pens
Shatter
70-90% THCTranslucent, stable concentrate. Classic form factor with consistent quality.
Best for: Dabbing, vaporizing
Budder/Badder
60-80% THCWhipped concentrate with creamy texture. Easy to handle, good terpene retention when properly made.
Best for: Dabbing, topping flower
Distillate
90-99% THCPure cannabinoid oil, often re-introduced terpenes. Common in vape carts.
Best for: Vaping, edibles, dabbing
Extraction Methods
Different extraction methods produce different types of concentrates, each with unique characteristics. Understanding these methods helps you choose products that align with your preferences.
Live Rosin (Premium Standard)
Solvents: None (fresh-frozen solventless)
Products: Live Rosin, Live Rosin Sauce
Pros: 2-4x terpene retention, no solvents, full spectrum
Cons: Expensive process, lower yields
Fresh-Frozen Hydrocarbon
Solvents: Butane/Propane at -20°F to -80°F
Products: Live Resin, HTFSE, Diamonds
Pros: 98% terpene preservation, high quality
Cons: Requires sophisticated equipment
Hash Rosin Press
Solvents: None (heat 180-220°F and pressure)
Products: Hash Rosin, Rosin Sauce/Jam
Pros: Solventless, exceptional purity
Cons: Requires high-quality bubble hash
Traditional Rosin Press
Solvents: None (heat and pressure)
Products: Flower Rosin, Hash Rosin
Pros: Solventless, safe, preserves terpenes
Cons: Lower yields (15-25%)
Consumption Devices
Smart E-Rigs
Bluetooth-enabled devices with app control and real-time temperature monitoring.
- • 40 dabs per charge
- • Precision temperature control
- • App-controlled sessions
- • USB-C charging
Cold Start Dabbing
Preferred method for terpene preservation and smooth hits.
- Load concentrate into cold banger
- Cap the banger
- Heat until bubbling (10-20 seconds)
- Inhale at optimal temp
Temperature Guide
Temperature control is crucial for optimal flavor and effects when dabbing concentrates.
Low Temp (315-450°F)
Maximum flavor, smooth hits, preserves terpenes. May leave residue.
Medium Temp (450-600°F)
Balanced flavor and vapor production. Most popular range.
High Temp (600-750°F)
Intense effects, thick vapor, but reduced flavor and harsh hits.
Too Hot (750°F+)
Risk of combustion, harsh smoke, destroys terpenes and cannabinoids.
Terpene Preservation
Terpenes are crucial for the full cannabis experience. Modern extraction methods prioritize terpene preservation, with live extracts maintaining 2-4x higher terpene content than traditional methods.
Johns Hopkins and University of Colorado proved limonene reduces THC-induced anxiety in a double-blind study. This validates the entourage effect and emphasizes the importance of preserving terpenes in concentrates for therapeutic benefits.
Key Terpenes in Concentrates
- Myrcene: Sedating, enhances THC absorption
- Limonene: Reduces anxiety, mood elevation
- Pinene: Alertness, neuroprotective
- Caryophyllene: Anti-inflammatory
Preservation Methods
- Fresh-Frozen: Flash-freeze at harvest
- Low-Temp Extraction: -20°F to -80°F processing
- Cold Storage: Refrigerate to maintain profiles
- Optimal Dabbing: 285°C preserves terpenes
Safety & Storage
Safety Considerations
- Start Low: Concentrates are extremely potent - start with rice grain-sized doses
- Wait Between Dabs: Effects are immediate but can intensify over 10-15 minutes
- Clean Equipment: Regular cleaning prevents residue buildup and contamination
- Proper Ventilation: Always consume in well-ventilated areas
- Temperature Control: Use a thermometer or e-nail to avoid overheating
Storage Best Practices
Short-term Storage
- • Silicone containers for easy access
- • Glass jars for terpene preservation
- • Cool, dark place away from heat
Long-term Storage
- • Refrigerate for extended freshness
- • Vacuum seal to prevent oxidation
- • Label with strain and date
Quality Testing
All legal concentrates undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety and quality.
Tests for leftover extraction solvents. Legal limits ensure safety, typically measured in parts per million (PPM).
Measures THC, CBD, and other cannabinoid levels. Helps determine appropriate dosing and expected effects.
Screens for mold, yeast, and bacteria. Especially important for concentrates made from older plant material.
Tests for lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury. Ensures products meet safety standards for consumption.
- Clarity: Should be free from plant material and contaminants
- Color: Light amber to gold typically indicates quality
- Consistency: Should match the product type
- Aroma: Strong terpene presence indicates proper processing
Premium Concentrate Selection
From live resins to rosins, find the perfect concentrate for your needs