Cannabis Concentrates Explained: Shatter, Wax, Live Resin, and More

The World of Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates represent the fastest-evolving product category in the industry. With THC levels ranging from 60% to 90%+, concentrates offer a potent, efficient consumption method — but they can be intimidating for newcomers.

What Are Concentrates?

Concentrates are products made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plant material, resulting in a highly concentrated form. The extraction method determines the final product type.

Types of Concentrates

Shatter — Glass-like, translucent concentrate that "shatters" when broken

• Texture: Hard, brittle
• THC: 70-90%
• Best for: Experienced consumers seeking potency

Wax — Soft, opaque concentrate with a waxy texture

• Texture: Malleable, easy to handle
• THC: 60-80%
• Best for: Intermediate consumers, easy to dose

Live Resin — Made from fresh-frozen cannabis, preserving maximum terpenes

• Texture: Saucy, aromatic
• THC: 65-85%
• Best for: Flavor enthusiasts, connoisseurs

Rosin — Solventless concentrate made with heat and pressure

• Texture: Varies from sap to shatter-like
• THC: 60-80%
• Best for: Health-conscious consumers (no solvents)

Distillate — Highly refined, almost pure THC

• Texture: Clear, viscous oil
• THC: 85-99%
• Best for: Vape cartridges, edible infusion

Consumption Methods

• Dabbing — Using a dab rig with a heated nail or banger
• Vaporizing — Portable vape pens or desktop vaporizers
• Topping — Adding concentrates to flower in a joint or bowl
• Edible infusion — Using distillate or RSO in cooking

Safety Considerations

• Start extremely small — Concentrates are many times stronger than flower
• Use quality products — Always buy lab-tested concentrates
• Invest in proper equipment — Low-quality dab rigs can be dangerous
• Know your tolerance — Concentrates are not recommended for beginners

Find Concentrates on Budbo

Budbo's platform helps you find lab-tested concentrates at dispensaries near you, with detailed product information and consumer reviews.

Explore concentrates safely with Budbo.