From Flower to Extract: The Art and Science of Making Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their high potency and unique flavor profiles. With a wide variety of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to understand how these concentrates are made. In this guide, we will break down the process of making cannabis concentrates and provide insight into the different types of concentrates available on the market.

The process of making cannabis concentrates involves extracting the resin and terpenes from the plant material to create a highly potent product. There are several methods used to extract the resin, including solvent-based extraction, mechanical extraction, and CO2 extraction.

  • Solvent-based extraction is one of the most common methods used to make cannabis concentrates. This process involves using a solvent such as butane, propane, or ethanol to extract the resin and terpenes from the plant material. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind a concentrated oil or wax.
  • Mechanical extraction involves using heat and pressure to extract the resin from the plant material. This method can be done using a variety of tools, including a rosin press, which applies heat and pressure to the plant material to extract the resin. The resulting product is a potent oil or wax.
  • CO2 extraction is a newer method used to make cannabis concentrates. This method involves using high-pressure carbon dioxide to extract the resin and terpenes from the plant material. The resulting product is a clean and potent oil or wax.

Once the resin has been extracted, it can be further processed to create different types of concentrates. Some popular types of concentrates include shatter, wax, budder, and live resin.

  • Shatter is a type of concentrate that is translucent and brittle. It is typically made using a solvent-based extraction method and has a high THC potency.
  • Wax is a type of concentrate that has a softer, waxier texture than shatter. It is also typically made using a solvent-based extraction method and has a high THC potency.
  • Budder is a type of concentrate that has a creamy texture and is often made using a mechanical extraction method. It has a high THC potency and is known for its unique flavor profile.
  • Live resin is a type of concentrate that is made using freshly harvested cannabis plants that have been flash-frozen. This method preserves the terpenes and provides a unique flavor profile that is different from other types of concentrates.

In summary, cannabis concentrates are a highly potent and flavorful way to consume cannabis. The process of making concentrates involves extracting the resin and terpenes from the plant material to create a concentrated oil or wax. There are several methods used to extract the resin, including solvent-based extraction, mechanical extraction, and CO2 extraction. Once the resin has been extracted, it can be further processed to create different types of concentrates.