The Cannabis Wax Guide: How to Make Them At Home, Advantages, Disadvantages, And More

Cannabis wax is a popular form of cannabis concentrate that has garnered significant attention in recent years. It is well known for its high THC levels and the various ways it can be consumed, making it a preferred choice for both medicinal and recreational users. In this article, we will discuss everything about cannabis wax, including the production techniques used by extractors and how you can replicate it at home as well as its pros and cons.

Cannabis concentrates have a rich history tracing back to civilizations that utilized hashish. However, modern extraction methods have transformed the production and consumption of concentrates. Among these concentrates, cannabis wax stands out due to its texture, strength, and the unique experience it provides.

What is Cannabis Wax?

Cannabis wax is a type of cannabis concentrate known for its waxy consistency, which can vary from malleable to solid and brittle. This concentrate is abundant in cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the component responsible for the euphoric effects associated with cannabis.

The texture and feel of cannabis wax can differ based on how it is extracted and the specific conditions used during production.

Different Types of Cannabis Concentrates

There are many forms of cannabis extracts or concentrates, each with its characteristics and ways to consume. 

Some common types include:

Shatter: A concentrate that resembles glass and breaks easily.

Budder: A smooth buttery concentrate that's easy to handle.

Live Resin: Created from freshly frozen cannabis plants to preserve more terpenes for a flavorful experience.

Rosin: A solvent-free made using heat and pressure. Rosin is softer than wax but if you want to make a solventless cannabis wax at home, making rosin is your best alternative. 

Cannabis wax is often compared to these concentrates due to its potency and production methods.

Cannabis Wax Comparison with Other Cannabis Products

Compared to other forms of cannabis like regular buds and edibles, cannabis wax offers unique benefits appealing to a wide audience. These advantages include high potency, quicker onset of effects, and versatility in consumption methods.

• Increased Potency

One key advantage of cannabis wax is its potency. Typically containing 60-90% THC, it surpasses the potency of buds that usually range from 10-25% THC. The high concentration of THC in cannabis wax enables users to experience the desired effects despite using tiny amounts of the product. This can be especially beneficial for users allowing for precise dosing and long-lasting relief from symptoms.

The increased potency of cannabis wax also means that it can provide effects that appeal to recreational users seeking a stronger experience. However, it also indicates that you should be cautious if you're a beginner to prevent potential adverse effects like anxiety or paranoia.

When you dab or vape cannabis wax, it offers immediate effects due to cannabinoids entering the bloodstream more quickly through the lungs than the digestive system. As a result, users can feel the effects within seconds to minutes, making cannabis wax suitable for those seeking quick relief. In comparison, edibles may take between 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in which might not be as quick. 

• Adaptability

You can consume cannabis wax in various ways, according to your preferences. Some popular ways of consumption include:

Dabbing: This method involves using a dab rig to heat the wax at high temperatures to create a vapor. Then, you inhale this vapor. Known for its efficiency and the strong instant effects it delivers, dabbing is a go-to method if you want immediate results.

Vaping: Cannabis wax can be used with concentrate vaporizers for an easy consumption method. Although vaporizers don't heat the wax at high temperatures like dab rigs, it will lead to a more flavorful experience.

Incorporating into Edibles: Cannabis wax can be mixed into butter or oil for cooking or baking purposes, and you can make edibles from them. This approach allows users to enjoy the benefits of cannabis wax in a socially acceptable manner. However, remember that the onset of effects will be slower with edibles. 

Cannabis Wax vs. Other Forms of Cannabis

• Cannabis buds 

Almost everyone who uses cannabis starts with buds. You can smoke or vaporize it. As the most common type, buds also contain a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, but you will have to smoke or vape larger amounts to achieve effects similar to cannabis wax due to its lower potency. Also, cannabis buds can sometimes produce harsh smoke but cannabis wax typically produces smoother smoke.

• Edibles

Edibles offer a great way to consume cannabis but they have a delayed onset and can be challenging to dose accurately. The effects of edibles can vary significantly among individuals making them somewhat unpredictable.

• Tinctures and Oils

These liquid cannabis extracts can be taken sublingually. Or, you can add them to food and drinks for consumption. They provide accurate dosing and discretion; however, their effects may take longer to kick in compared to inhalation methods like smoking. Additionally, tinctures are generally much less potent than extracts like cannabis wax.

• Topicals

Cannabis-infused creams and balms are applied topically for localized relief from pain and inflammation. These products do not induce narcotic effects and are primarily used for therapeutic purposes rather than recreational enjoyment.

In a nutshell, cannabis wax stands out as a versatile choice for consuming cannabis, setting it apart from traditional options like buds and edibles. With its THC content and quick effects, it's perfect for those chasing potent highs. 

Downsides of Using Cannabis Wax 

• Potential Health Concerns and Respiratory Problems: Inhaling concentrated vapors may irritate the lungs for those with existing issues. 
• Residual Solvent Exposure: Cannabis wax that is not prepared correctly can contain solvents that pose risks when inhaled.
• Safety risks: Making extractions containing butane at home carries safety hazards such as the risk of explosions.
• Legal implications: In some regions, there are very strict laws against making extracts at home which may lead to legal repercussions if caught.
• Increased Tolerance due to high potency: Cannabis wax is renowned for its THC content typically ranging from 60% to 90%. This potency far exceeds that of the buds that don't typically exceed 25% THC. As you need small amounts to get very high, it also means that you can develop a tolerance very quickly. When you use too much too often, your body will adjust to those levels of THC, and you'll need more doses to achieve the desired effects. You may not enjoy buds or other cannabis products with less potency anymore. 

A heightened tolerance could result in dependency on cannabis wax. Users might feel compelled to use it more in order to function normally or manage stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges.

Individuals who attempt to reduce or cease their usage after regular consumption may encounter withdrawal symptoms like irritability, insomnia, decreased appetite, and mood swings. Withdrawal can pose challenges for users seeking to cut back on their intake.

• Difficulty in measuring dosage: Precisely measuring cannabis wax can be tricky due to its thick consistency. Unlike dosed edibles or capsules, users must estimate the amount they consume, which can lead to inadvertent overconsumption. In addition, the potency of cannabis wax may vary from batch to batch making it hard for users to consistently determine the dosage. Seasoned users may struggle with adapting to varying potencies.
• Intense Effects: Excessive consumption of cannabis wax can result in an intense high. Users could encounter feelings of paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations. Symptoms of excessive consumption may manifest as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, increased heartbeat, and, in severe cases, panic attacks or fainting. These signs can be alarming. 
• Increased Costs of Consumption: As your tolerance increases, the need for more cannabis wax increases to achieve the desired effects. Thus, you'll end up spending lots of money to keep up with it. 

How do Extractors or Companies Create Cannabis Wax

Producing cannabis wax on a large scale involves extraction methods aimed at maximizing yield, potency, and purity. The extractions are made either using solvents, known as solvent-based extraction. Some extracts are made without solvents, and this technique is known as solventless extraction. 

Solvent-Based Extraction

Butane Hash Oil (BHO): This method is widely used for making cannabis wax. It entails using butane to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant material. The butane is then purged from the resulting mixture, yielding a beautiful concentrate.

Propane Hash Oil (PHO): This technique is similar to BHO but employs propane as the solvent leading to concentrates with different textures and flavors. 

CO2 Extraction: This method uses carbon dioxide for extracting cannabinoids and terpenes.

Solventless Extraction 

As the name implies, solventless extraction is a technique where you don't need to use solvents like butane or propane. This approach is renowned for creating pure concentrates without any leftover solvents. 

Rosin Press Extraction: This technique uses heat and pressure to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis buds or hash, resulting in a concentrate with no solvents. 

Ice Water Extraction: Involves the use of ice and water to separate trichomes from the cannabis plant, which are then gathered and pressed into hash or rosin. 

Here's a quick overview of how extractors make cannabis wax:

• High-quality plant material 

Extractors focus on selecting high-quality cannabis buds or trim and preparing them for extraction as it determines the quality of the final product 

• Extraction Methods

For BHO/PHO: Cannabis material is packed into a column and butane or propane is passed through it to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes. 

For CO2: Cannabis material is placed in an extraction chamber and CO2 is used to extract the desired compounds. 

For Rosin: Cannabis material is placed between parchment paper and subjected to heat and pressure.

Purging and Refining: In solvent-based extractions, the resulting mixture is placed in a vacuum oven to eliminate any remaining solvents. The extract is typically processed more in solventless techniques to achieve the final extract with a characteristic texture and flavor. 

Companies producing cannabis extracts on an industrial scale typically use equipment such as extraction columns for packing cannabis material. They also use solvent tanks that hold and transfer the solvents to other equipment. Vacuum ovens are then used to remove solvents from concentrates as the final step. 

All these machines are specialized to make the best concentrates. In addition, the extractors follow strict safety and quality control to ensure the integrity of cannabis wax. This involves ventilation to avoid the build-up of gasses during the extraction, and regular testing for residual solvents, potency, and contaminants.

Producers must adhere to regulations related to the manufacturing and distribution of concentrates. These rules typically cover aspects such as testing, labeling, and using child packaging to guarantee consumer safety.

As you can understand, these companies produce top-quality extracts for which they require pure, uncontaminated cannabis material, time, and effort, so they are pretty expensive. 

How to Make Cannabis Wax at Home

Granted, the procedure to make cannabis wax seems very complicated. So, is there any way to make it at home? 

The short answer is yes. 

The long answer is that you'll need quite a few tools and materials to create something that's similar to the product the extractors make. Perhaps you won't be able to match their impeccable quality, but you'll still be able to make amazing extracts provided you have the best buds.

Creating Cannabis Wax with a Rosin Press

Crafting cannabis wax using the rosin press technique is much safer than using butane. This is amazing for you if you don't want residual solvents in the final product. The rosin press method involves using both heat and pressure to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis material resulting in a premium concentrate called rosin.

Here are step-by-step instructions to make it at home: 

• Supplies Needed

Top-notch cannabis flowers or hash

Parchment paper

Rosin press (manual or hydraulic depending on preference and budget)

Dab tool or scraper

• Instructions

1. First, opt for cannabis flowers or hash rich in trichomes, for optimal results. Fresh material typically leads to better wax. 
2. Some users love creating a perfect product so they use pre-pressed molds that produce fantastic wax. This is optional, but if you're using it, pack the hash into the mold and press it down to make a compacted puck. This step can help enhance the efficiency and yield during the pressing process.
3. Start by preheating the rosin press plates to your desired temperature, much like operating an oven. Typically pressing rosin works best within the temperature range of 180°F to 220°F (82°C to 104°C). Lower temperatures are known for preserving terpenes and enhancing flavor while higher temperatures may boost yield at the expense of some flavor.
4. Next, cut a piece of parchment paper to wrap around the cannabis, securely forming an envelope to collect the extracted rosin.
5. Position your cannabis between the parchment paper. Set it on the lower plate of your rosin press.
6. Gradually close the press to apply heat and pressure onto your cannabis. Maintain pressure for 30 seconds to 3 minutes depending on your material type and desired yield. 
7. Release the pressure gently from the rosin press and open up the plates. Next, remove the parchment paper holding the pressed rosin.
8. Using a dab tool or any pointed tool, scrape off the rosin from the parchment paper. 

That's it! Your cannabis wax is done! Now, place your rosin in a nonstick container safely.

Safety Measures 

Use Protective Equipment: Wear gloves and protective eyewear to shield yourself from burns and accidental contact with surfaces.

Monitor Temperature and Pressure Levels: Keep an eye on the temperature and pressure settings of your rosin press to prevent any damage to materials or equipment.

As you can see, using a rosin press is an efficient way to make high-quality cannabis wax without using solvents. By following the steps mentioned above, you can get excellent results. However, rather than using lots of starting material, it’s best to start with just a few grams of cannabis buds or hash so you don’t waste anything. You can continue to make more if you’re satisfied with the results. 

Aside, from the Rosin Press Method and Butane Hash Oil (BHO) Method, there are other approaches for creating cannabis wax at home. These methods involve a hair straightener and alcohol for extraction. Let's delve into each technique in detail.

Hair Straightener Method to Make Cannabis Wax at Home 

The hair straightener method offers a cheap and easily accessible means of producing cannabis wax at home. This technique harnesses heat and pressure akin to a rosin press. Granted, the yield will not be as much as using a press as it's designed specifically to make cannabis wax, but if you want to make small amounts of wax at home without spending money on a rosin press, using a hair straightener is your best bet. 

Here's how you can go about it:

• Supplies Needed

High-quality cannabis buds or hash

Hair straightener (preferably with adjustable temperature settings)

Parchment paper

Tools to collect the wax (e.g. silicone spatula or scraper)

Heat resistant gloves

• Instructions

1. Make sure you use the best cannabis buds loaded with trichomes for more yield and potency. You can also use trim if they have lots of trichomes. Break the buds into manageable pieces.
2. Next, adjust the hair straightener to a medium temperature setting, typically ranging from 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Again, remember that low temps can maintain the terpenes and flavor whereas raising the temperature might boost output but could harm terpenes. 
3. Now, prepare your parchment paper for the process. Cut off a small piece and fold it in such a way that it can hold the buds inside. Just a single fold should be enough. 
4. Wear your gloves and position your parchment paper in the straightener. Press it down for just 5-10 seconds. If everything goes well, you will see the rosin or wax drip down and stick to the parchment paper. 
5. Now, all you have to do is collect your rosin wax. Use a dab tool and carefully scrape it all off the parchment paper and store it in a nonstick container. 

Alcohol Method to Make Cannabis Wax at Home 

Alcohol is a solvent, so this won't be a solventless extraction but you can make cannabis wax easily at home with this method. The only requirement is that you need high-proof alcohol for it to work. Some users even go with 99% isopropyl alcohol but since you'll be smoking or vaping it, it's best to use food-grade alcohol. Of course, the alcohol will completely evaporate when you get to the final step, but this is just a precaution. In this method, alcohol is necessary to dissolve the terpenes and cannabinoids so it should be high-quality. 

Here's how you can extract cannabis wax using alcohol:

• Supplies Needed

Good quality cannabis buds or trim

High-proof alcohol like Everclear or another food-grade ethanol

Glass jars

Coffee filters or cheesecloth

Parchment paper

Boiler or any heat source

Dab tool to collect the wax

• Instructions

1. Grind the Cannabis using a grinder to break it into smaller pieces. 
2. Place both the cannabis and alcohol in the freezer for about 3 hours until they are frozen. Cold temperatures prevent you from extracting too much chlorophyll.
3. Mix the buds and alcohol in a jar. Make sure the alcohol covers the buds completely. Stir the mixture. Let the cannabis sit in alcohol for 30 seconds to a minute, stirring every now and then. Longer soaking times can extract a lot more cannabinoids but it might also extract way too much chlorophyll and waxes from the plant if you overdo it.
4. Pour the cannabis alcohol mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a container separating the extract from the plant residue. 
5. Now, you need to separate the alcohol from the cannabis, so use a rice cooker, or double boiler, or any other heating source. However, you can't put this mixture on direct heat as alcohol is flammable! 
6. First set up a boiler by pouring the alcohol extract into it. This helps to evaporate the alcohol without overheating and ruining the cannabinoids. Next, heat the boiler on very low heat to let the alcohol slowly evaporate. This process can take a few hours as there's no direct heat, so be patient. Make sure you're in a ventilated area to avoid breathing in any fumes.
7. After the alcohol has evaporated, you'll be left with a gooey or sticky substance. Let it cool and harden a bit before scraping it off with your dab tool. Store the wax in an airtight container.

• Safety Measures

Work in a ventilated space when using solvents.

Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself. 

Use low heat levels to preserve cannabinoids and terpenes without risking combustion.

Using Butane to Make Cannabis Wax at Home

The Butane Hash Oil (BHO) technique is an efficient approach to producing cannabis wax, valued for its strength and purity. However, you should be extremely cautious throughout this process as it's extremely flammable. There are plenty of other techniques to make cannabis wax without using solvents, and you can choose any of them. As a beginner, you shouldn't even consider making extracts with BHO. But, if you're an expert, here's a quick overview of how to make cannabis wax with butane. 

• Supplies Needed

High-grade cannabis buds or trimmings

Butane canisters 

Glass extraction tube (commonly referred to as a blast tube)

Coffee filters or specialized filter attachments

Parchment paper

Glass container to collect the extract

Safety equipment (gloves, safety goggles, and a mask)

• Instructions

1. Grind the Cannabis with a grinder to finely break it down. Avoid grinding it too much as it may hinder butane flow and increase the risk of plant material contamination in the extract.
2. Load the extraction tube with the cannabis. However, don’t pack it too tight to ensure an even flow of butane through the material. On the other hand, having a tube that is not packed enough may cause the extraction process to be less effective so you should hit the right balance. 
3. To safely perform the extraction, make sure to do it where there is ventilation to reduce the risk of butane buildup and potential explosions.
4. Secure a coffee filter or a specialized filter to the end of the extraction tube to prevent any plant material from getting into the extract.
5. Place the nozzle of the butane canister into the opening, at the top of the extraction tube. Position the tube over your glass dish lined with parchment paper to collect the liquid extract.
6. Now, depressurize the canister to release butane. The butane will pass through the cannabis material, dissolving cannabinoids and terpenes. The resulting liquid extract containing both butane and cannabis oil will drip down onto parchment paper in the dish.
7. Let the butane evaporate naturally in a ventilated space. It may take hours so it’s important to avoid any sparks, flames, or static electricity during this time since butane is highly flammable.
8. Transfer the extracted material to a vacuum chamber for faster removal of any leftover butane. Place the dish containing the extract in the chamber. Activate the pump to create pressure. This will help evaporate the butane at a lower temperature compared to regular atmospheric conditions ensuring a cleaner final product.
9. Make sure that all traces of butane have dissipated. The concentrate should not release gasses at room temperature anymore. When using a vacuum chamber, this process may take a few hours and you should monitor the extract until it stops bubbling under vacuum pressure.
10. Once all butane has vaporized, use a dab tool to collect the waxy substance from parchment paper. Store the cannabis wax in a non-stick airtight container to maintain its potency and flavor over time.

Safety Measures

Ventilation: It's important to conduct butane extractions in a ventilated area away from any potential sources of ignition such as open flames, electrical devices, and static discharge. Butane is a gas. If it builds up in a confined area, even a small spark or static discharge can lead to a fire or explosion. 

This danger is especially pronounced in settings where adequate ventilation may be lacking. Everyday household items like electronic devices, pilot lights, and even static electricity can trigger butane combustion. While outdoor environments are safer they still carry risks if not handled with care.

Inhaling Butane: Breathing in butane gas can result in problems including dizziness, nausea, and potentially asphyxiation in some cases. It's crucial to use proper equipment and ensure good ventilation although accidental exposure remains a concern.

Protective Equipment: Make sure to wear gloves, safety glasses, and a mask for your safety against butane exposure and accidental spills.

Residual Chemicals: If butane isn't thoroughly removed from the product during the extraction process, harmful residual chemicals may remain in the cannabis wax. Ingesting wax containing these residues can lead to some health complications.

Environmental Concerns: You need to dispose of the butane canisters while following hazardous waste guidelines to prevent harming the environment. 

Impact of Explosions: An explosion caused by butane can result in damage to properties, such as homes and nearby structures. 

Absence of Professional Gear: Commercial extraction facilities employ specially designed, professional equipment for handling volatile solvents safely. In contrast, home setups often make do with inadequate gear increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Recorded Explosions; There have been documented cases of explosions and fires stemming from DIY butane extraction efforts at home. These instances underscore the risks and potential outcomes associated with using butane for extraction in residential settings.

Due to the hazards associated with DIY butane extraction, it is strongly advised to avoid attempting this process without training and equipment

Butane Quality: Opt for pure butane to reduce the chances of contaminants in the product.

The BHO technique is widely used for producing cannabis wax with potency and purity when carried out correctly. However, it demands proper preparation, execution, and adherence to safety protocols due to the nature of butane. By following these guidelines and implementing safety precautions, you can create top-quality cannabis wax suitable for various consumption methods.

How to Purchase Best-Quality Cannabis Wax

• Purchase only from Trusted Brands

Opt for trusted brands that have been in this business for a long time as it indicates trustworthiness and customer satisfaction.

To know more about the company, read online reviews about product quality and efficacy. Look for feedback across various platforms like dispensary websites, cannabis forums, and third-party review sites.

Finally, only consider brands that have been honored with industry awards or certifications as these accolades often signify standards of quality. Look for products that have achieved recognition and are a hit among users. 

• Check for transparent brands 

Choose brands that openly share details about their extraction processes, including the types of solvents or methods utilized. This level of transparency reflects a dedication to quality and safety. The company should also be able to tell you where they source their cannabis material from.

Additionally, brands should share details about how they manufacture their products, including the processing conditions and quality control measures in place.

If you have any questions, ask them. Good customer support is a sign of trusted brands. They should be ready to answer any questions and provide information when needed.

• Lab testing

Make sure to look for products that have been tested by laboratories. This helps reduce biased results and boosts the credibility of the testing process.

Check for Certificates of Analysis (COAs) that confirm there are no contaminants. Keep an eye out for pesticides, and heavy metals like lead and arsenic as residual solvents such as butane or ethanol that could exceed safe limits if left behind during extraction processes.

It's also important to check for any bacteria, molds, and fungi in the product.

In addition, make sure that the lab report pertains specifically to the batch you intend to purchase. This ensures consistency and quality across batches.

Quality items should come with precise labels detailing dosage instructions, ingredients list, and expiration date. So check them as well. 

• Check the cannabinoid and terpene profile

If you're a medical cannabis user, you're purchasing the concentrate to get fast effects. Even recreational users want high THC, which is why they purchase concentrates. So, it's essential that you check the cannabinoid levels of the extracts to determine whether they meet your preferences. 

If you want concentrates that smell and taste fantastic (we’re all searching for them!) then check the terpene profile to choose something you like as terpenes are responsible for the taste and flavor of the strains.

Verify that the product is stored in childproof packaging to prevent accidental consumption. 

Summary: The Cannabis Wax Guide: How to Make Them At Home, Advantages, Disadvantages, And More

Cannabis wax is a potent cannabis extract or concentrate. Extractors take great care to make it on an industrial scale using specialized equipment, but you can make it at home too, as long as you use top-quality hash or buds. The buds should have lots of trichomes to ensure that you get a good product at the end of it. Of course, you can use trim too, but it should have loads of trichomes as well. 

There are two ways to make cannabis wax. While one uses solvents like butane to make it, other methods do not require solvents. Since you don’t have specialized equipment at home, it’s best to stick to solventless extraction methods. The quality may not be as good as commercial extractors but you’ll be adhering to safety standards. 

Making cannabis wax using solvents typically involves butane that’s super flammable. You simply don’t want to blow up your home while trying to make extracts! Thus, use a rosin press, hair straightener, or even alcohol to make cannabis wax safely at home. 

Stay tuned to us to learn more about making different types of cannabis extracts or concentrates in the comfort of your home. You can do it if you the best-quality buds, so start growing cannabis today!