Cannabis concentrates can be broadly classified into two categories: solvent-based concentrates and non-solvent concentrates. These two categories differ in their methods of extraction and the resulting products' properties. In this article, we will discuss the differences between solvent and non-solvent concentrates.
Solvent-based concentrates are made by extracting the active compounds in cannabis using a solvent. The most common solvents used in cannabis extraction include butane, propane, ethanol, and CO2. Solvent-based concentrates are often referred to as "oil" or "wax" and can take many different forms, including shatter, budder, sauce, and distillate.
Butane Hash Oil (BHO)
Butane Hash Oil, or BHO, is a type of cannabis concentrate made by extracting the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant using butane as the solvent. The resulting product is a sticky, oily substance that can range in color from light amber to dark brown. BHO is typically consumed through dabbing, vaporizing, or adding to food.
Propane Hash Oil (PHO)
Propane Hash Oil, or PHO, is similar to BHO in its extraction process, but propane is used as the solvent instead of butane. The resulting product is usually less sticky than BHO and can range in texture from a crumbly, waxy substance to a more liquid-like consistency.
Ethanol-Based Extracts
Ethanol is another common solvent used in cannabis extraction. Ethanol-based extracts are often referred to as "tinctures" and can be consumed orally or sublingually. They are made by soaking the plant material in ethanol to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes. The resulting product is a liquid extract that can be added to food or taken directly under the tongue.
CO2 Extracts
CO2 extraction is a popular method of extracting cannabis compounds, particularly for medical and therapeutic uses. The process involves using CO2 as the solvent to extract the active compounds from the plant material. The resulting product is a highly concentrated oil that can be used for vaporizing or added to food.
Non-solvent concentrates, as the name suggests, are made without the use of solvents. They are typically made by applying pressure or heat to the cannabis plant material to extract the active compounds. Non-solvent concentrates are often referred to as "mechanical separation" or "solventless" concentrates.
Kief
Kief is a non-solvent concentrate that is made by sifting the trichomes from the cannabis plant material. The resulting product is a powdery substance that can be consumed by smoking, vaporizing, or adding to food.
Rosin
Rosin is a non-solvent concentrate that is made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower, kief, or hash. The process involves using a rosin press to extract the active compounds without the use of solvents. The resulting product is a sticky, resinous substance that can be consumed through dabbing, vaporizing, or adding to food.
Dry Sift
Dry sift is similar to kief but involves using a finer mesh screen to sift the trichomes from the plant material. The resulting product is a more refined concentrate that can be consumed in the same ways as kief.
Ice Water Hash
Ice water hash is made by agitating cannabis flower or trim in ice water to separate the trichomes from the plant material. The resulting product is a powdery substance that can be consumed by smoking, vaporizing, or adding to food.
Conclusion
Solvent and non-solvent concentrates offer different advantages and disadvantages. Solvent-based cannabis concentrates are typically more potent and offer a wider range of textures and consistencies