How Do I Use Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates offer a powerful, flavor-rich, and efficient way to experience the effects of marijuana. Whether you’re seeking deeper relaxation, medicinal relief, or an intensified high, concentrates provide an elevated experience that goes far beyond traditional flower. Learn how to use cannabis concentrates properly to unlock their full potential and enhance your cannabis routine.
Start by understanding your personal tolerance. Concentrates can be extremely potent, with THC levels reaching up to 90%. If you’re new to them, begin with a very small dose and observe your body’s reaction before consuming more.
Use the following methods to consume cannabis concentrates safely and effectively:
1. Dabbing: The Most Popular Method
Dabbing is the go-to method for many concentrate users. It involves vaporizing a small amount of concentrate on a heated surface, then inhaling the vapor through a dab rig.
How to dab properly:
Use a dab rig, which looks similar to a bong but includes a nail or banger instead of a bowl.
Heat the nail with a butane torch until it reaches the desired temperature (usually between 315°F and 600°F).
Let it cool for about 30–45 seconds to avoid burning the concentrate.
Use a dab tool to place a small amount of concentrate on the nail.
Inhale slowly through the rig while the concentrate vaporizes.
Cap the nail with a carb cap to regulate airflow and maximize vaporization.
Dabbing delivers rapid effects and rich terpene flavors. Be sure to clean your rig regularly for the best experience.
2. Vaping: Discreet and Convenient
Vaping cannabis concentrates provides a cleaner, more portable alternative to dabbing. Vaporizers designed for concentrates come in several forms, including vape pens, portable vaporizers, and desktop units.
Tips for vaping concentrates:
Choose a vape pen with a concentrate-compatible cartridge or a refillable chamber.
Pre-filled THC oil cartridges are widely available and easy to use—just screw one onto a battery and inhale.
Refillable dab pens let you load your own wax, shatter, or live resin into the chamber.
Adjust the temperature settings if available. Lower temperatures preserve flavor, while higher settings produce more vapor.
Vaping is perfect for on-the-go use and offers a smoother experience with less odor than traditional smoking methods.
3. Adding to Flower for Enhanced Effects
If you enjoy smoking flower but want a stronger hit, combine concentrates with your herb. This method is ideal for those who want to boost potency without switching to full concentrate use.
How to combine flower and concentrates:
Roll a joint or blunt, and place a small strip of wax or shatter inside with the flower.
Create a “twaxed” joint by applying oil to the outside of the paper and rolling it in kief.
Use a glass bowl or pipe, layering concentrate over ground flower.
This approach intensifies your session and allows for a customizable high while maintaining the traditional smoking ritual.
4. Edibles Made with Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates can be infused into homemade or commercial edibles. Use distillates, RSO (Rick Simpson Oil), or THC tinctures to create potent, long-lasting effects through ingestion.
Edible concentrate tips:
Choose a concentrate that is already decarboxylated or heat it gently to activate the THC.
Mix into cooking oil or butter to make cannabis-infused ingredients.
Start low—edible effects take longer to onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) and last much longer than inhalation.
This method is ideal for medical cannabis users or those looking for discrete, long-term relief.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Proper storage is key to preserving the potency, flavor, and texture of your cannabis concentrates. Follow these best practices:
Store in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and heat
Use airtight containers, preferably made of glass or silicone
Avoid excess handling to prevent terpene loss and contamination
Refrigerate or freeze long-term supplies of live resin or rosin
Keeping your concentrates fresh ensures every session is just as potent and enjoyable as the last.
Choose the Right Method for You
With so many ways to use cannabis concentrates, experimentation helps you find what fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re dabbing live resin for full-flavored hits, vaping distillate for discretion, or mixing wax into joints, there’s a method for every type of consumer.
Explore different products, prioritize quality, and respect your limits. Always purchase cannabis concentrates from reputable dispensaries to ensure purity, potency, and safety.
When used mindfully, concentrates offer an exceptional way to experience the full power of the cannabis plant.
