Dabs and Cannabis Concentrates for Beginners

Dabs and concentrates: A beginner’s guide

Dabs (or concentrates) are super-potent forms of cannabis that have long been popular among connoisseurs.

What are concentrates?

Concentrates are products where active compounds (mainly THC) are extracted from cannabis, leaving behind a pure and powerful extract. They can vary in consistency — from hard crystals to sticky resin — and can be consumed in different ways, but most commonly through dabbing (heating and inhaling the vapor).

Why are they called “dabs”?

The term “dab” comes from the method of consumption — dabbing. A small amount of concentrate (literally a “dab”) is heated on a hot surface (such as a special “nail” in a dab rig) and the resulting vapor is inhaled.

Concentrates vs. extracts: is there a difference?

Not all concentrates are extracts, but all extracts are concentrates. The difference lies in the method: extracts are always made using solvents (such as butane or CO2), while concentrates can also be made without chemicals — through the use of heat and pressure

How are concentrates made?
There are two main methods:

With solvents – Butane, propane, or CO2 are used to “pull” THC and other compounds from the plant. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind the pure extract.
Without solvents – Mechanical methods like heat pressing or ice extraction (bubble hash). This method is considered more “natural” and retains the maximum amount of terpenes.

Types of cannabis concentrates

THC Distillate – Nearly pure THC (90–99%), flavorless and odorless. Commonly used in edibles and vape cartridges.
Shatter – Hard, glass-like concentrate with up to 90% THC.
Wax – Soft, aromatic, and honey-like in texture.
Crumble – Dry, crumbly texture. Easy to handle and perfect for mixing with flower or topping bowls.
Live Resin – Extracted from fresh frozen plants to preserve maximum terpenes and flavor.
RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) – Dark, thick full-spectrum extract, usually taken orally for medical use.
THCA Diamonds – Pure crystalline THCA. When heated, it converts into highly potent THC.
Terp Sauce – Terpene-rich, syrupy extract with intense aroma and flavor. Often paired with diamonds.

Solventless concentrates

Budder – Soft and creamy like butter. Made by whipping the extract during processing, often rich in terpenes and perfect for dabbing.
Rosin – Solventless concentrate made with heat and pressure. Preserves natural flavor and terpenes.
Hash – Traditional dry-sift hash made by collecting and pressing trichomes into bricks or malleable blocks.
Bubble Hash – Also known as ice water hash. Made using only water and ice to separate trichomes — no solvents involved.

How to consume concentrates?

There are several ways to consume or vaporize them:

Dab Rig – The classic method using a heated nail (with a torch or e-nail) to vaporize the concentrate and inhale through a rig.
Dab Pen – A portable, user-friendly option for waxy concentrates. Load it manually and enjoy discreet sessions.
Vape Cartridges – Pre-filled with distillate or live resin; just attach to a 510-thread battery and you’re good to go.
Nectar Collector – A straw-like device: heat the tip and “sip” vapor directly from the surface. Great for quick dabs on the go.

Optimal Temperature for Dabs

The temp you choose affects both flavor and potency:

🔴 570–600°F (High) - Maximum THC release, but many terpenes degrade or burn off. Strong effects, weaker taste.
🟠 500–570°F (Medium) - Balanced zone — good potency with solid terpene presence. Great place to start.
🟢 400–500°F (Low) - Best flavor and terpene expression. Milder effects, but full of taste.

Tip: Start around 500–540°F and adjust based on your flavor vs. strength preference.

Safety & Effects of Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates like wax, shatter, rosin, and oil contain much higher levels of cannabinoids than regular flower. While typical buds have ~15–25% THC, concentrates can reach 80–90% — meaning the effects hit faster and stronger 🚀

Important reminders:

Even a tiny amount can be extremely potent — especially for beginners. Start with a dab no bigger than a grain of rice and wait 10–15 minutes before taking more.
High THC levels can increase the chance of temporary discomfort: anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, or rapid heartbeat. Not dangerous, but definitely unpleasant if overdone.
Your body processes extracts differently than flower — even experienced users can underestimate the effects.

Want to enjoy safely? Start low, go slow.
If in doubt — ask your budtender for guidance.