Everything You Should Know About Dabbing Cannabis

People enjoy cannabis in various ways. While some like using regular buds and smoking or vaping them, others love edibles. But there's another section of users that live on the edge and take things up a notch, so to speak. And, what better than concentrates to do so? 

Cannabis concentrates or extracts can make you incredibly high, but they also offer an experience you'll never have with simple buds, which explains why dabbing is super popular. 

If you've ever wanted to try dabbing and find out what the fuss is all about, this article is for you. We will discuss everything you need to know about dabbing. 

What is Dabbing?

Dabbing, in the cannabis industry, entails the vaporization and inhalation of cannabis extracts. These potent concentrates, often known as "dabs”, contain extremely high levels of cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Unlike regular methods of consuming cannabis that involve smoking buds, dabbing involves heating the concentrate on a surface — commonly a nail or banger — and inhaling the resulting vapor through a dab rig.

History of Dabbing Cannabis

Although dabbing may appear to be a new trend, its roots can be traced back decades. The practice gained traction in the 2000s in areas like California and Colorado during the evolution of medical marijuana laws.

Earlier, people used rigs to dab. They improvised on existing techniques to extract concentrates, which at times proved inconsistent and hazardous. Since then, dabbing has steadily risen in popularity due to advancements in extraction methods and specialized equipment resulting in more effective dabbing experiences.

Dabbing is popular due to its advantages. Yes, smoking cannabis is fun and all, but dabbing gives you more value for your buck. Here are some factors that have made dabbing incredibly popular:

1. Potency: Cannabis concentrates boast of super high THC levels (60-80%) compared to normal buds that usually contain only 20-25%, thereby attracting users seeking a stronger and quicker high.
2. Flavor Variety: Dabbing enables users to savor the flavor profiles of cannabis strains as concentrates retain more terpenes that give cannabis its unique tastes and scents.
3. Better experience: Vaporizing concentrates at low temperatures offers a smoother experience where the hits aren't super hard on your throat compared to traditional methods of smoking cannabis. 
4. Efficiency: Dabbing requires very small amounts of concentrate for desired effects compared to smoking buds, making it an economical choice for regular users.
5. Personalization: Dabbing allows users to tailor their experience by experimenting with concentrates, temperatures, and techniques to achieve their preferred effects.

Most people with experience love dabbing but you should be cautious if you're new as the concentrates hit hard and knock you out. Bad trips aren't fun, so make sure you stay safe. 

But, what if you have no idea what any of these are? Here's a brief overview.

What are Cannabis Concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates used in dabbing are extracts derived from cannabis plants containing significant levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. They are created by extracting desired compounds like THC and CBD from the plant material using solvents, heat, pressure, or a combination of these methods. The resulting extract can take on various forms ranging from oils to solid textures based on the extraction method employed and the desired consistency.

These concentrates provide users with a better experience compared to smoking buds due to their concentrated levels of active compounds. They offer a blend of cannabinoids and terpenes, delivering a flavorful sensation. Let's explore the types of cannabis concentrates used for dabbing:

1. Wax: Most popular as THC wax, this is a soft and crumbly concentrate resembling its namesake. It is produced through a solvent-based extraction method often using butane or CO2. Wax is cherished for its effects and rich flavor profile making it a go-to choice for dabbing enthusiasts.
2. Shatter: Shatter is a glass-like concentrate that easily shatters into brittle pieces. It's made using a solvent-based extraction, just like wax with one exception that it undergoes longer purging to eliminate any remaining solvents, resulting in a more stable and visually appealing product. With its incredibly high THC content, shatter is a favorite among many users. 
3. Budder: Also known as batter or badder, budder has a smooth and creamy texture reminiscent of peanut butter. Typically created using butane as the solvent, budder undergoes whipping or agitation during purging, giving it a fluffier consistency. Budder is particularly popular for its potency and unique terpene profile that adds to its taste. 
4. Crumble: As the name implies, crumble has a texture that easily breaks apart. It is produced through a solvent-based extraction method, followed by a purging step to eliminate any remaining solvent. While crumble may be less stable than other concentrates, users appreciate it for its convenience and versatility.
5. Live Resin: To make live resin, cannabis plants are first harvested and then frozen to keep their terpene profile intact. Then, the concentrate is extracted from the plant material using solvents, resulting in a concentrate that's full of flavor. 
6. Rosin: Rosin is another popular cannabis extract, but unlike the ones named above, rosin is a solventless extract created by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower or hash. Through this method, cannabinoids and terpenes are extracted, yielding a substance that resembles sap. Renowned for its purity and taste, rosin retains more of the plant's compounds compared to extracts produced using solvents.
7. Distillate: Cannabis distillate is an extract that has been refined through a distillation process to separate out cannabinoids like THC or CBD. Unlike most concentrates, it doesn't have taste or smell, so you can add it to edibles, vape pens, and even skincare products. Some people use it for a pure high when dabbing.
8. THC Diamonds: THC diamonds, also called diamonds or THC crystals are concentrates containing THC. As the name implies, they look like diamonds, thanks to a process of crystallization, where THCA separates from the concentrate and forms crystal-like structures. These THC diamonds are very potent and are often used to boost the potency of concentrates when dabbing. 

Each type of these concentrates provides a good experience, and you can choose any depending on the flavor, potency, and texture you like. Whether you enjoy the creamy feel of budder or the glassy look of shatter, there's a cannabis concentrate to match every dabbing preference.

Tools Used for Dabbing

Dabbing isn't all about the concentrates; it also involves the tools you use, and there are quite a few of them. From dab rigs to dab pens, each tool has its own benefits and considerations, so let's explore the tools used for dabbing. 

Dab Rigs

A dab rig is at the heart of the dabbing ritual. It's a water pipe designed specifically for vaporizing concentrates. A typical dab rig includes a glass chamber, just like a water bong, a nail or banger (where you put the concentrate), a downstream, and a mouthpiece.

When a user dabs, he/she will first place the concentrate on the nail or banger. Then, he will inhale the vapor that's produced through the mouthpiece. 

E-Nails

E-nails are gadgets that offer temperature regulation for dabbing. They come with a control box and a coil that wraps the nail and holds the temperature where it's supposed to be, allowing you to get a perfect hit at the right temperature every single time. Unlike torches that need heating and can be challenging to manage, e-nails enable users to establish and preserve the desired temperature ensuring a consistent and effective dabbing session.

Dabbers 

Usually known as dab tools, these tools are used for handling concentrates. They come in several shapes, features, and sizes. Typically, the tools will have pointed tips for scooping and flat tips for spreading. 

Carb Caps

A carb cap is a dome-shaped accessory placed on top of the nail or banger after applying the concentrate. It helps retain heat and fully vaporize any remaining concentrate, resulting in a flavorful dabbing session. Carb caps also assist in regulating airflow, thereby influencing both temperature levels and vaporization efficiency.

Portable dab pens

Also known as wax pens or dab pens, these are handy devices for on-the-go dabbing. They include a battery, a heating element ( a quartz coil), and a compartment for loading the concentrate. Portable dab pens are inconspicuous and simple to use, making them popular among individuals who wish to dab when they are out and about without attracting attention.

How to Dab Cannabis Concentrates?

Dabbing is a great way to enjoy cannabis concentrates. Although it may seem daunting at first for beginners, mastering the art is quite simple once you grasp the process. Here's a detailed step-by-step process to help. 

1. Prepare your Dab Rig

Get your equipment ready, including:

• Dab Rig: Consider selecting a setup that aligns with your taste, whether it's a glass rig or a contemporary style.
• Nail/Banger: Nails are commonly crafted from quartz, titanium, or ceramic while bangers are typically made of quartz. Make sure to choose a nail or banger that matches your rig and heating preferences.
• Dabber tool: A dabber tool is essential to handle and apply the concentrate onto the nail. Dabber tools come in several sizes, so use something that feels right in your hand and meets your dabbing requirements.
• Carb cap: While this is optional as an accessory, a carb cap can be placed over the nail after applying the concentrate. It aids in trapping heat, so you can enjoy a flavorful dabbing experience. While not necessary, carb caps can elevate your dabbing sessions, particularly when using low temperatures.
• E-Nail or Torch: Decide whether you want to use a torch or an electronic nail to heat your nail. Torches can heat up instantly but require manual operation while e-nails provide precise temperature control at a higher initial cost.

Fill the chamber of your dab rig with water until the percolators are completely submerged. The water keeps it cool and also filters the vapor that's produced when you dab, allowing you a better experience. 

Be cautious not to overfill your dab rig to prevent splashback which can happen when water is pulled up into the mouthpiece when you inhale. In addition, overfilling may affect the percolator's functionality and result in leaks. 

Check the water level before heating your nail or banger by taking a pull (inhaling, without lighting the nail). Adjust the water level as necessary for filtration without risking splashback.

Next, choose a cannabis concentrate that matches your preferences whether it's wax, shatter, budder, crumble, live resin, rosin, distillate, or THC diamonds. Each type of concentrate brings its taste and strength to the table, so choose something you're comfortable with. 

Measure out your dab using the dabber tool to scoop a small amount of concentrate. Concentrates are powerful, so a little goes a long way. In short, the concentrate should be as much as a small grain of rice. 

Handle concentrates carefully as they can be sticky and tricky to work with. Be cautious when scooping or spreading them on your dabber tool and refrain from touching them with your fingers to prevent any contamination.

Make sure you have a steady workspace before handling your concentrate. Spills or mishaps can create a mess so take your time and proceed with care.

2. Heat the Nail

Heating the nail is the second step after preparing your dab rig and concentrate, which will help you determine the vaporizing temperature of your concentrate, influencing both its flavor profile and potency level.

Determine How to Heat the Nail

Before starting the heating process, decide on whether you want to use a torch or an e-nail for heating. Traditional torches are commonly used for heating nails and are easy to find. They provide heat quickly and are great for those who prefer a hands-on approach to dabbing.

E-nails, on the other hand, offer temperature control and eliminate the need for manual heating with a torch. They are perfect for users who appreciate consistency and convenience in their dabbing routine.

Heating the Nail Using a Torch

Light up your torch with a spark or flame. Ensure that the torch is securely positioned before igniting it.

Next, point the flame of the torch directly at the nail. Keep the flame at an appropriate distance from the surface to heat it evenly rather than heating it too rapidly. Heat up all parts of the nail by moving the torch around it in circles until it reaches your desired temperature for dabbing.

Keep an eye on any color changes as the nail heats up; it will start to transform as it gets hotter. When you notice that red glow, it means that it has reached the temperature for vaporizing concentrates.

Heating the Nail Using an E-nail

When using an e-nail, set it to the temperature you want. Most e-nails are advanced and have options to choose precise temperatures usually ranging from 315°F to 600°F.

Once you've set the temperature, be patient and give the e nail some time to heat up and reach the desired level. 

Allow for Cooling Down

After heating up the nail, it's crucial to let it cool down before dabbing. Once you've heated the nail, wait for 30-60 seconds for it to cool down sufficiently. The cooling duration may vary based on the material and thickness of the nail as your personal preference for dabbing temperatures.

Also, remember that the temperatures matter a great deal when dabbing as they influence the flavor and vaporization of the concentrates. 

Opting for higher temperatures (600°F and above) results in denser vapor and stronger effects whereas low temperature dabs (315°F to 450°F) help retain the flavor and terpenes. To figure this out, try out different temperature settings and choose something you like. Some individuals enjoy higher temperatures for stronger effects while others prefer lower temperatures for smoother and more flavorful dabs. 

3. Applying the Concentrate

Once your nail or banger reaches the desired temperature, it's time to apply the concentrate. This step requires precision and control to ensure vaporization and full flavor extraction. Here's how you can apply the concentrate onto your surface:

Dabbing Technique

Using a dabber tool, carefully scoop up a tiny amount of cannabis concentrate. Again, make sure you use small amounts, whether you're experienced or a beginner as extracts can hit you like a freight train. 

Position the concentrate on the tip of your dabber tool and bring it near the surface of the nail. Allow the concentrate to glide on its hot surface. It will melt immediately and produce vapor. Be careful not to touch the nail or you'll get burnt!

Now, rotate your dabber to get a uniform vapor. This will also help to spread your extract evenly on the banger. Make sure you don't overload your banger with too much concentrate as it's just going to go to waste. 

As mentioned earlier, using carb caps is optional, but if you have one, place it on the banger as soon as you apply your extract. Make sure it's a snug fit or it's of no use. A tight fit will trap all that heat inside and also concentrate the vapor. 

Adjust the airflow levels according to your preferences. A tighter airflow can produce dense vapor while an open airflow allows for smoother inhalation.

Using a carb cap can help decrease air pressure within the dab rig, lowering the concentrate’s boiling point and promoting more efficient vaporization. This leads to flavorful vapor and prevents any loss.

When you finish dabbing, remove the cap to prevent any leftover concentrate from dripping onto the hot surface. Clean your dabber tool and store it for later use.

4. Inhaling and Exhaling

Once you've applied the concentrate on the nail, get comfortable and get close to your dab rig’s mouthpiece. Next, take a controlled breath through the mouthpiece to draw in the vapor smoothly. Proper breathing techniques will help you enjoy it more. 

Avoid inhaling suddenly to prevent coughing or discomfort. Instead, take it easy and go slow. Inhale the vapor at a steady pace to enjoy the flavors and effects of the concentrate fully.

Keep an eye on the vapor forming inside the dab rig as you inhale. The dense milky vapor indicates the vaporization of the concentrate.

Now, it's time to exhale. You can keep the vapor in as long as you want as it depends on your preference. Holding it in for longer periods will offer a more potent high. Some people hold their breath with the vapor in their lungs, allowing their system to absorb the cannabinoids in a better manner. When you exhale, do it slowly and steadily rather than doing it suddenly to prevent irritation or coughing.

For cleaning up, use a Q tip or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the nail or banger and remove any leftover residue. Also, remember to clean the inside of your dab rig to get rid of any resin buildup. You can rinse it with water. Use a specialized cleaning solution for maintenance. Keeping your nail clean after each dab will keep it going for a long time. 

Congrats! You've just finished your first ever dab! 

Now, just remember that although it can be slightly intimidating at first, it gets better with time. Start off with small dabs and increase them with time. Figure out the temperature and techniques that suit you best and you'll enjoy every single session.

The Significance of Temperature When Dabbing Cannabis Concentrates

Temperature is key when it comes to dabbing. It has an impact on how cannabinoids and terpenes vaporize, influencing the taste and effects of your dab. If the temperature is too high it can cause combustion and destroy all those delicate terpenes, resulting in a burnt flavor in the vapor. On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, it may not fully vaporize the concentrate, leading to a lack of potency and flavor.

Dabbing at Lower Temperatures

Dabbing at low temperatures involves heating the nail within a range between 315°F and 450°F. Many dabbers prefer this method as it helps retain the flavors and scents of the concentrate while still delivering amazing effects.

Benefits of Dabbing at Lower Temperatures

Richer Flavor: Lower temperatures maintain the terpenes in the concentrate creating a more flavorful and aromatic dabbing experience.

Gentle Hits: Cooler temperatures generate vapor reducing throat discomfort often experienced with higher temperatures.

Preservation of Terpenes: Opting for slightly lower temperatures will preserve the terpenes, which play a role in enhancing overall cannabis effects through synergy known as the entourage effect.

Dabbing at High Temperatures

When it comes to high temperatures, the process entails heating the nail to temperatures exceeding 600°F. With this, you'll likely get thick vapor with stronger effects, but it may sacrifice some flavor and make the vapor harsher.

Benefits of High-Temperature Dabbing

1. Quick Hits: Higher temperatures quickly vaporize the concentrate for powerful hits.
2. Intense Effects: The heat can enhance the effects, making it appealing to those looking for an amazing experience.
3. Complete Vaporization: With higher temperatures, the concentrate fully vaporizes, leaving very little residue behind.

Cold-Start Dabbing

Cold-start dabbing involves applying the concentrate to the nail before heating it. This method offers temperature control and prevents overheating or scorching.

How to Cold Start Dab

1. Apply Concentrate: Place the concentrate on the nail before heating it up.
2. Heat Gradually: Slowly heat up the nail with a torch or e-nail until vaporization begins.
3. Inhale Smoothly: Once it starts vaporizing, inhale slowly through the dab rig.

Preserving Terpenes

Terpenes are compounds in cannabis that influence its taste and effects. To maintain the flavors of terpenes during dabbing, it's crucial to be mindful of heat sensitivity. Some terpenes can evaporate easily at high temperatures, thereby impacting the experience.

Here are some tips, for preserving terpenes:

1. Opt for Low Temperature Dabbing: Keep temperatures as low as possible to retain terpenes and enjoy a range of flavors.
2. Utilize Carb Caps: Carb caps help trap heat and concentrate the vapor, which means that the vapor is dense and preserves the terpenes as well.
3. Explore Concentrates: All concentrates aren't the same, so some of them may contain more terpenes than others. To get the best extract with an incredibly high level of terpenes, you need to experiment and discover something that you love. 

Safety Recommendations for Dabbing

Dabbing is an efficient method for using cannabis concentrates, but you must focus on safety to guarantee a pleasant experience. Whether you're handling concentrates or maintaining your dab rig, here are some safety suggestions for dabbing;

1. Proper Handling of Concentrates

Use the Right Tools: When dealing with concentrates, use proper dabbing tools rather than handling them with your fingers in a messy manner. This will also prevent sticky residue on your hands and potential contamination.

Store Correctly: Keep your concentrates in a dark spot away from direct sunlight and heat to avoid deterioration.

Prevent Cross Contamination: Store your concentrates separately to avoid mixing flavors and potency levels.

Clean Hands After Handling: After working with concentrates, wash your hands vigorously with soap and water to remove any residue.

2. Selecting High-Quality Concentrates

Purchase from Trusted Sources: Buy concentrates from dispensaries or reputable sellers to ensure quality and safety.

Verify Purity: Look for concentrates that have undergone potency and purity testing with lab results available for confirmation.

Avoid Contaminants: Be cautious of concentrates that may contain additives or contaminants like pesticides or residual solvents. 

3. Avoiding Excessive Consumption

Start Slowly and with Small Amounts: If you're new to dabbing or trying out something you're not accustomed to, begin with small doses and then scale it up. 

Know Your Limits: Be aware of your tolerance level. Avoid consuming much as it can result in discomfort, anxiety, or negative reactions.

Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water during and after dabbing to prevent dehydration.

4. Cleaning Your Dab Rig

Regular Maintenance is Key: It's important to clean your dab rig to get rid of any buildup and keep it functioning well.

Use Isopropyl Alcohol for Cleaning: Use isopropyl alcohol combined with salt to clean the nail, downstem, and other glass parts of your dab rig.

Clean After Each Use: After each session of dabbing, use a Q tip or cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol to clean the nail thoroughly and remove any remaining residue. 

Effects of Dabbing

Since dabbing involves vaporizing concentrates or extracts that have higher levels of cannabinoids, the effects are immediately noticeable. It typically results in intense effects instantly after inhalation. 

You may experience a feeling of euphoria and quick relief from symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety for medical users. Some people may also experience enhanced sensory perceptions such as heightened taste sensations and intensified auditory and visual experiences. Of course, this can be scary as some people don't react well when they hallucinate. That's why, you should do it in controlled doses. 

Potent Mind Altering Effects: High levels of THC can result in mind-altering effects, which could be excessive for some, particularly novices. 

Increased Tolerance: Regular dabbing could result in developing a high tolerance to THC, so you'll end up dabbing more and more to enjoy the high you experienced once upon a time.  

Dependency Risk: There is a possibility of developing a dependency on cannabis with the use of potent concentrates.

Cognitive Impact: High doses of THC, especially with frequent consumption, might affect cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and learning ability.

Mental Health Effects: Some individuals may find that high doses of THC worsen or contribute to mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and in rare cases, psychosis.

Apart from these, you may feel other side effects like dry mouth and red eyes that are pretty common after using marijuana.

Pros and Cons of Dabbing

Advantages

• Strength: Dabbing offers a potent form of cannabis allowing for stronger effects with less material, making it efficient and strong.
• Taste: Concentrates used in dabbing often retain the terpenes from the cannabis plant, resulting in stronger flavors compared to traditional smoking methods.
• Quick Impact: The effects of dabbing kick in instantly due to the rapid absorption of cannabinoids, making it a fast and efficient way to consume.
• Efficiency: Dabbing can be more effective than smoking as it fully vaporizes the concentrate leaving very minimal waste behind.
• Clean Experience: Since dabbing involves vaporization rather than combustion, it can offer a method of cannabis consumption that reduces the side effects you're exposed to when you're burning the product. 

Disadvantages

• Potency Challenges: The intense potency of dabs can be overwhelming for beginners or individuals with low tolerance levels leading to uncomfortable or strong effects.
• Technical Setup: Dabbing requires tools like rigs, nails, torches, or e-nails that may be costly and intricate to set up and operate.
• Safety Issues: Using a torch for heating poses safety concerns such as burns or fire hazards. Mishandling concentrates can also result in accidents. 
• Cost: You also need to consider the cost as high-quality concentrates and dabbing equipment can be quite pricey making dabbing a better choice compared to other ways of consuming cannabis.
• Also, remember that regular dabbing can lead to a build-up of tolerance to THC, meaning higher doses may be needed to achieve desired effects, which may not be ideal for everyone. 
• In essence, while dabbing offers a flavorful cannabis experience, it also presents risks and complexities that you should carefully consider especially if you're new to dabbing.

Summary: Everything You Need to Know About Dabbing Cannabis

Dabbing, when referring to cannabis, is nothing but the vaporization of concentrates. It's a fun way to get high very quickly. So much so that your regular buds won't stand a chance in front of this because concentrates are made by extracting potent cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, and since you're smoking only the cream of the plant material, you can get uncontrollably high. 

In this article, we have discussed the steps you need to take to start dabbing. Although it can be confusing at first, especially with the various terminologies used, it gets easy quickly. However, be wary of the strong high produced by concentrates. Some extracts, like THC diamonds, for example, contain almost 99% THC! It does seem like a fun way to enjoy cannabis, but it can also bring a range of side effects including paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations if you don't do it right. If you're a beginner, try very tiny amounts of extracts so you get comfortable before scaling it up. 

All in all, dabbing can be fun if you do it with friends, so get your favorite concentrate and see how you like it today!