From vape cartridges to infused candies and dabs, there are lots of ways to experience marijuana concentrates effects for pain relief.
Concentrates are made from processed cannabis material which has been isolated to keep the desired plant cannabinoids. Concentrates have more terpenes and cannabinoids which produces a stronger effect than flower alone.
To understand the powerful benefits of concentrates, it’s important to understand each type and how it is made and consumed. Concentrates allow you to experience the most vital healing parts of the plant and can be used in a variety of ways. The flavor and appearance of concentrate can also vary depending on strain type and method of production. Color and texture does not necessarily indicate the level of quality when it comes to different types of concentrates.
The benefit of concentrates products is the quickness of time the effect is felt. Your body absorbs concentrates almost immediately and the effect can last a few hours.
Concentrates come in a condensed form and contain only the best parts of the flower including all the flavors and fragrances, minus the plant material.
The marijuana plant possesses vital healing compounds which effect everything about the plant from taste, flavor, aroma, as well as the physical benefits including pain relief.
The Effects of Concentrates on Pain
Rapid absorption, targeted relief, and precise dosage are some of the main benefits for pain symptoms. As mentioned earlier, cannabis contains large amounts of active cannabinoids including THC and CBD among others. These cannabinoids work with the body to produce a large range of effects. Concentrates isolate a specific cannabinoid you need without all the excess plant material. Concentrates help you control your dosage so that nothing goes to waste. With such high doses, a little bit of concentrate does a lot of work.
For pain sufferers, THC interacts with pain receptors in the brain which causes the release of natural pain relievers within the body. It can also modulate serotonin levels, leading to further reduction in pain.
For those who don’t like the high feeling, CBD can be helpful towards reducing pain levels due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmatic properties as well as its powerful anxiety reduction benefits make it a viable concentrates medicine.
The endocannabinoid system is a body system composed of endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors and affect the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system.
Concentrates Types
Concentrates can be confusing whether you are new to cannabis or a long time consumer. There are several questions to consider. How much do I take? How do I dab? Which concentrates are right for me? These are all valid questions. The kind of concentrate you choose will determine the kind of effect you get.
Concentrates can be broken down into five basic categories.
- Oil: Finely-refined oil can be made into vapes, ingestion, and edibles
- Wax: A waxy substance that can be dabbed or vaporized
- Shatter: A substance with hard-candy consistency which shatters with pressure. Can be vaporized or dabbed.
- Budder: Creamy spreadable; can be dabbed or added to dry herb.
- Crumble: Similar in texture to budder but drier; easiest to handle. Can be dabbed or smoked.
There are other types of concentrates and certainly will be more as the industry continues to evolve. But these are the most common concentrates you can typically find in licensed dispensaries.
How to Use Concentrates
Now you need know how to use concentrates and learn what the proper dosage is for your needs.
Ingestion
Edible products made from concentrates are perfect for those who enjoy food. Ingesting cannabis provides a longer-lasting effect than vaping or smoking. This can be perfect for those who want to use cannabis for pain relief. Make note that edibles have a delay in the effect. It is important to start very small and do not over do it. It may take a while before you feel the effects of edibles, so start slow.
Vaporization
Vaping is one of the most popular choices for taking concentrates. A vape pen is necessary to vape your concentrates. You will need to purchase a vape cartridge and a separate rechargable battery unit. If the idea of multiple accessories confuses you, don’t worry. A disposable vape pen is a singular unit that houses a pre-measured amount of concentrate. There are no chargers or complicated pieces to operate. To use a disposable vape pen, all you have to do is put the pen to your lips and inhale, holding for 3-5 seconds before exhaling. Wait about 30 minutes to monitor the level of effect. For pain relief, you will most likely need a higher milligram vape. Be sure to consult with a concentrates specialist to determine the right milligram for your needs and budget.
Dabbing
For those who need to experience extra fast effect, we recommend dabbing. This is when concentrates are applied onto a hot surface of an enail and inhaled through a device designed specifically for dabbing. This is the ideal method for those who are in extreme pain or have high tolerance levels. Dabbing is incredibly beneficial for those in extreme pain or those looking for a safer alternative to pain killers.
