Cannabis enthusiasts and connoisseurs have been increasingly drawn to cannabis extracts due to their effects and versatility. Among the types of cannabis concentrates, two notable contenders are live resin and distillate. While both offer forms of cannabis, they possess characteristics that set them apart.
In this article, we will delve into the similarities and differences between resin and distillate, shedding light on their manufacturing processes, chemical compositions, flavors, uses, and consumer preferences.
What is Live Resin?
Live resin is a type of cannabis concentrate renowned for its ability to preserve the natural flavors and aromas of the plant. It is crafted from harvested cannabis flowers that are promptly flash-frozen after harvest to effectively retain the flower’s terpene profile.
Manufacturing Process
The creation of resin involves utilizing a solvent – typically butane or propane – to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from buds. This extraction method conducted at low temperatures aids in preserving terpenes found within the plant. Consequently, the resulting concentrate boasts higher levels of compounds than other concentrate varieties.
Chemical Composition
When it comes to its composition, live resin stands out because of its extraction process. This process helps preserve a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, including THC (delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), CBC (cannabichromene), CBG (cannabigerol) and more. Moreover, live resin retains terpenes, giving it flavors like citrus, pine, or floral notes.
Flavor Profile
One major advantage that sets resin apart is its flavors. Using plant material at the peak of ripeness during the extraction process preserves not only the cannabinoids but also the unique flavors and aromas of the strain. Cannabis enthusiasts appreciate that live resin offers a flavor experience and a nuanced high.
Uses and Preferences
Cannabis enthusiasts who value the qualities of cannabis often prefer resin. Its heightened potency, flavors, and aromatic profile make it an appealing choice for those seeking rounded experiences through vaporization dabbing or incorporating it into various infused products.
What Is Distillate?
Distillate is another type of cannabis concentrate known for its purity and versatility.Distillate is created through a refining process that eliminates impurities, resulting in a cannabinoid solution with minimal terpenes.
Production Process
To produce cannabis distillate, cannabinoids ( THC) are extracted from the plant material using solvents like alcohol or hydrocarbons. This initial extraction is followed by purification techniques such as winterization, decarboxylation, and fractional distillation. These processes remove elements like chlorophyll, waxes, fats, and residual solvents to obtain a concentrate enriched with cannabinoids.
Chemical Composition
Distillate is renowned for its nature, owing to its levels of THC. During purification processes like distillation, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) transforms into THC, resulting in concentrated products containing significantly higher amounts of this psychoactive cannabinoid. While other cannabinoids may be present in trace quantities depending on the starting material used, distillate primarily focuses on THC content.
Flavor Profile
Unlike resin, which boasts natural flavors derived from retaining terpenes during extraction, distillate possesses a relatively neutral taste. By removing terpenes during the refining process, manufacturers get flexibility when it comes to flavoring options and precise control over product taste.
Uses and Preferences
Distillate has gained popularity due to its versatility and user-friendly nature. Distillate is an ingredient that works wonders in cannabis-infused products, like edibles, tinctures, vape cartridges, and topicals. Manufacturers love its versatility as it can easily blend with ingredients or formulations to create customized cannabis experiences that cater to consumer preferences.
Similarities between Resin and Distillate
- Potency: Both live resin and distillate concentrates are packed with cannabinoids, making them incredibly potent.
- Dabbing Potential: You can use both concentrates in dab rigs. Vaporize them using devices for an extra punch of potency and quick effects.
- Extraction Methods: Although the solvents used differ (butane or propane for live resin extraction vs. alcohol or hydrocarbons for extraction), they rely on solvent-based methods to extract the desired cannabinoids.
Conclusion
Live resin and distillate offer cannabis enthusiasts options based on their preferences, desired experiences, and applications. Live resin focuses on preserving flavors, aromas, and spectrum effects by extracting at low temperatures while keeping terpenes intact. On the other hand, distillate aims to maximize potency through purification techniques that refine the concentrate.
Understanding these distinctions empowers consumers to make decisions when seeking flavors or intense potencies in their cannabis journey. In the world of cannabis extracts, both live resin and distillates bring benefits to the growing array of options we have today.
