How to Use Concentrates?

If you’re looking for a more intense high, you need something much more potent than the usual cannabis flower, and that’s where concentrates come in! Cannabis concentrates are highly potent extracts made by isolating cannabinoids and terpenes from the flower, with a particularly high concentration of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

THC is mainly the psychoactive compound in cannabis that makes you high, so the higher the concentration of THC, the more intense the high is likely to be. Typically, a regular cannabis flower contains a THC level of 15% to 25%, while some strains can even have a THC level of 35%.

Cannabis concentrates on the other hand have a super high THC level ranging from 60% to 90%. The interesting thing is that cannabis concentrates are widely diverse as they come in different types and forms, such as kief, hash, rosin, live rosin, wax, crumble, distillate, and more. Each of these concentrates can be consumed in different ways, such as dabbing, smoking, vaping, infusing edibles, and consuming tincture infused tincture or applying topicals.

In this article, we’ll walk you through six different ways to use cannabis concentrates, so you can choose the method that fits your preferences and experience level.

6 Ways to Use Cannabis Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates are incredibly popular for their ultra-high potency which makes every recreational experience fun, and worthwhile. The most fascinating thing about using cannabis concentrates is that they can be used in every known consumption method.

Whether you’re new to cannabis, or a seasoned enthusiast, you can enjoy an elevated high with the proper use of concentrates. So, here’s a breakdown of 6 interesting ways to use cannabis whether you're looking for a relaxing experience or a more powerful high.

1. Dabbing

Dabbing is a popular method of consuming cannabis concentrates to experience a quicker and more intense high. The concept here is to vaporize a small amount of cannabis concentrate such as shatter, wax, crumble, rosin, or sauce between 0.025 grams to 0.05 grams for starters by applying heat while inhaling the smoke.

So, here's how you dab:

   • Heat the nail (usually with a butane torch) until it reaches the desired temperature, typically between 500°F and 700°F.

   • Allow it to cool slightly (usually for 30 to 45 seconds) to avoid burning the concentrate.

   • Use a dab tool to place the concentrate onto the nail while inhaling slowly through the mouthpiece.

   • Exhale and enjoy the effects, which usually kick in quickly and last longer than flowers.

   • For a cleaner and more flavorful experience, many users prefer low-temperature dabs (around 500 to 600°F), which preserve terpenes better.

2. Combining with Flower for Smoking

If you prefer the old-school or universal method of consuming cannabis, but on a much higher level, you can mix some cannabis concentrates with your flower. You can either buy an infused pre-roll containing cannabis concentrates, or you can mix some while rolling your joint.

Popular concentrates for this method include kief, hash, crumble, rosin, live resin, wax, and budder. Here's how you can roll your own concentrate-infused joint for a more intense recreational experience.

   • Sprinkle or layer the concentrate evenly throughout the ground flower.

   • If you're using stickier types like wax or budder, warm them slightly to make them easier to handle and spread.

   • Once rolled, light up and enjoy but inhale slowly, as the hit will be significantly more intense than a regular joint.

3. Vaping

Vaping is another popular method of consuming cannabis concentrates. It’s fun, relaxing, and it takes your recreational experience to a different level. Plus, as vape pens are easy and convenient to carry, you can use it in any private establishment or public places like cafes where smoking cannabis is allowed.

Make sure your cartridge is loaded with cannabis concentrates. For vaping, it's best to either buy pre-filled or refillable cartridges loaded with wax, or oil concentrates. It's better not to purchase non-refillable vape concentrates, especially to avoid some extra spending. But then again, you can if you prefer the convenience of not having to refill it.

Vaping concentrates is pretty much the easiest, although if you’re new to the experience, here’s how you should do it.

   • Turn it on (most pens require five quick clicks on the power button)

   • Inhale slowly while pressing the button (if your pen is button-activated).

   • Exhale and wait a moment as the effects can kick in quickly, especially with high-THC concentrates.

After you’re done, if it’s a non-disposable vape then discard it and purchase a new one. However, if it’s a refillable cartridge, make sure to clean it properly before refilling. Remove any leftover oil or wax to avoid clogging or mixing flavors. Once it’s clean, refill it with your preferred concentrate, and you’re ready for your next session.

4. Infusing Edibles

The consumption of cannabis isn’t just limited to dabbing, vaping, or smoking, it can also be ingested with your favorite cannabis edibles such as cannabis brownies, chocolates, gummies, or any other delicacy.

When it comes to making weed edibles, cannabis concentrate is a key ingredient. You will need to proportionately mix any cannabis concentrate with the edible that you’re making and cook it at a low-medium temperature ranging from 338°F to 350°F. Using a higher temperature than 350°F can degrade the THC distorting the potency of your concentrate.

So, once you’re done making your edible, make sure to consume it proportionately in a lower quantity, and gradually increase it to a suitable dose with acquired experience.

5. Using Tincture Infused Concentrates

Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts made by infusing concentrates into alcohol or oil. They’re a discreet, smoke-free, and fast-acting method for consuming cannabis especially when taken sublingually (under the tongue), which allows cannabinoids to absorb directly into the bloodstream.

If you’re looking for a quick and controlled high, tinctures are a great option. Simply use the dropper to place a few drops under your tongue, holding it there for 30 to 60 seconds, then swallowing it. Effects typically begin within 15 to 45 minutes.

You can also add tinctures to food or beverages, though this method works more like traditional edibles, with slower onset and longer-lasting effects.

6. Applying Topical Infused Concentrates

Cannabis concentrates can also be used to create topical products like creams, balms, and lotions that are applied directly to the skin. These topicals won’t get you high, but they can provide instant relief and alleviate soreness, or general muscle fatigue.

If you want a relaxing recreational experience, or perhaps a stress relieving massage, you should consider topical infused cannabis concentrates. So, here’s how you should use a cannabis-infused topical for the best experience.

   • Apply a small amount to the affected area of your skin.

   • Gently massage it in until fully absorbed.

   • No need to rinse, allow the ingredients to work their way in for a soothing, calming effect.

Topicals made with concentrates such as THC or CBD oil are for skincare routines, especially due to their targeted therapeutic benefits.

Read Also: Cannabis Legalization by State

What is the Best Way to Consume Concentrates?

The best way to consume cannabis concentrates depends on your personal preference. If you’re into smoking, then you can infuse it with your joint, or try more hardcore options like vaping and dabbing.

On the other hand, if you want to experience a faster high then you can consume infused cannabis tincture concentrate sublingually by putting a few drops of cannabis tincture on your tongue while holding it for 30 to 60 seconds and then swallowing it.

If you want to experience a much more intense high, edibles infused with cannabis concentrate is a great idea. Although it can take about 4 hours for the effects to kick in, the high is more intense and it is likely to last longer. Depending on the dosage of the concentrate, the effects can last from 8 to 24 hours.

If you’re new or if you’ve recently started, then it’s important to take things slow. Whether you smoke, vape, dab, eat edibles, or use tincture, start with a low dose and see how your body reacts before increasing.

While cannabis concentrates are great for enjoying an elevated high, overconsuming it can lead to unwanted effects like nausea, anxiety, paranoia, and even blackout. If you’re a little careful, and if you consume it responsibly, you can avoid these side effects.

Remember, even water can cause discomfort when it’s overconsumed, the same applies to cannabis as well, especially for concentrates as it’s much more potent.

Explore Premium Concentrates at Michigan’s Premier Dispensary: Smilez Cannabis

If you want the best recreational experience with a more elevated high, it’s crucial to ensure that you get top-quality cannabis concentrates. So, that’s why it’s important to shop from a trusted dispensary that prioritizes quality while offering a reasonable price.

As a premier Michigan dispensary, Smilez (formerly Joyology) provides premium quality cannabis concentrates from the best brands at the most reasonable price. Plus, there are daily exclusive deals on concentrates, and other cannabis products such as flowers, pre-rolls, edibles, weed vape pens, tinctures, topicals, CBD, accessories, and even trendy cannabis apparel.

So, if you’re interested in checking out wide variety of cannabis products, you can visit our website to order online for convenient curbside pickup across various locations in Michigan, or drop by our cannabis stores located in Allegan, Burton, Quincy, Reading, Three Rivers, and Wayne.

The Bottom Line: Potency Comes with Responsibility

The reason cannabis concentrates are so popular today is because of its ultra-high potency. So, that’s why it’s essential to be more careful, especially with the dosage. You don’t want to overdo it and turn a fun recreational experience into an uncomfortable or overwhelming one.

For starters, you should maintain a low dose of 0.025 grams to 0.05 grams of cannabis concentrate and see how your body responds to it. After a few sessions, if you feel like you can increase it slightly, but not too much especially to avoid the unwanted effects of cannabis concentrates.

Remember, the goal isn’t to take the largest dose, it’s to enjoy the experience. Concentrates are powerful, and when used responsibly, they can deliver an incredibly smooth, relaxing, and elevated high.

FAQ

What are the benefits of concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates contain a much higher THC level of 60% to 90% compared to the regular cannabis flower of 15% to 25%. So, this is a major increase in potency to experience a more intense and longer-lasting high. Plus, concentrates come in different forms such as oil, wax, crumble, rosin, or kief so they can be mixed with joints, added to vape cartridges, infused into tinctures, or even used as ingredients in edibles.

How to use concentrates on the go?

There are different options for using concentrates on the go, this includes carrying joints, tinctures, vape pens, edibles, and even topicals infused with cannabis concentrates. Compared to all these, vapes are the easiest to carry especially because it’s small with the cannabis concentrate sealed inside the cartridge. This makes it a great choice for quick and hassle-free use in private or approved public settings.

How strong are cannabis concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates are significantly stronger than traditional cannabis flowers. While most cannabis flower contains around 15% to 25% THC, concentrates typically range from 60% to 90% THC, making them up to four to six times more potent.

Because of this high potency, even a small amount can produce strong effects. That’s why it’s recommended to start with a low dose (around 0.025 to 0.05 grams) and increase gradually based on your tolerance and experience level. Concentrates can deliver a faster, more intense, and longer-lasting high, so they’re best suited for users looking for a stronger recreational effect.