Dabs have become extremely popular among marijuana enthusiasts lately and you’ve probably heard the term “dabs” or “dabbing” across the internet, especially among cannabis influencers.
Originally, dabs were aimed for medical marijuana patients. However, cannabis aficionados fell in love with this form of weed consumption and dabbing has become popular among recreational users, too.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about dabs. Let’s start with the basics: what are dabs, various types of dabs what is dabbing and its origins, and how to properly dab to avoid potential dangers. Here we go!
What are Dabs?
In short, dabs are concentrated forms of cannabis that induce a more intense recreational experience, while also providing remarkable medicinal benefits for cannabis users. Dabs include concentrates like budder, shatter, wax, or butane hash oils.
Dabs are made by extracting THC with the rest of cannabinoids from the marijuana plant with the use of CO2 or butane.
To feel the potent effects of cannabis, you only need a tiny amount of a dab and this is why this form of consumption has gained in popularity in recent years. Dabs are inhaled through a glass bong-like device, called dab rig, after heating them on a red-hot nail.
Now, dabs can be categorized by the method of extraction:
Solvent-based Dabs
These are made with the use of a solvent to extract the THC and other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant material. Butane, Propane, and CO2 are the most common solvents.
Solvent-based extractions are the most popular method of making marijuana concentrates these days.
Solventless Dabs
Contrary to solvent-based concentrates, solventless extractions are made with only pressure and heat. Solventless extractions include ice wax, rosin and dry sift.
Although less popular, this method is safe enough to practice at home; some of them call simply for a piece of parchment paper and a hair straightener.
What is Dabbing?
Now that you know what dabs are, it’s time to learn the meaning of the next term: dabbing.
Dabbing is a way of using marijuana concentrates — by burning or flash-vaporizing a dab. There are several methods of dabbing, but before we elaborate on that topic, let’s find out why people dab in the first place.
Dabbing: Why is It Popular?
As mentioned before, dabbing is becoming extremely popular these days. People seem to love dabs for their ability to induce a more intense and faster high from weed than they would normally get from cannabis flowers.
The elevated concentration of psychoactive THC is responsible for the potency of dabs and thus this method of using marijuana provides a better therapeutic effect on medical marijuana patients. Usually, dabs are recommended for those suffering from sleep disorders, chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, and severe inflammation.
Basic Dabbing Tools
If you want to start your dabbing adventure, there are several items you should gather:
- a dab rig – it’s a water pipe that comes with some extra features to make it compatible with a range of concentrates. They usually come as a set with the torch and dab nail;
- a nail – nails can be found in various sizes, shapes, and materials. If you’re not sure what to choose, we recommend titanium nails, as they heat up quickly and are more durable when compared to other options;
- a dabber – it’s a small tool that looks like a wand. It’s used for applying waxes and oils onto the nail. Similar to nails, dabbers come in different sizes and shapes, and are usually made of titanium, glass, ceramic, or quartz;
- a torch – most people use butane for this purpose, but you can also use propane. However, butane is known for providing a cleaner experience, as it burns at lower temperatures. When using propane-fueled torches, keep in mind they may melt your non-titanium nail!
- a cannabis extract of your choice – if you’re a newbie and don’t know what to choose, simply ask your budtender for advice. Most users start their dabbing adventure with BHO (Butane Hash Oil), as it’s one of the most common extracts for dabbing. Additionally, it’s extremely potent;
- carb cap (optional) – it’s a great choice for domeless nails because it allows you to take bigger dabs. However, it’s less efficient, as you may burn off more of your cannabis concentrate than you are able to inhale at once.
Now that you’ve gathered your dabbing equipment, let’s find out how to dab properly.
Dabbing: How to Do It the Right Way
First of all, if you’ve never dabbed before, you should remain extreme caution. If you do not control the dosage, the overwhelming amounts of THC may induce a panic attack. Don’t forget dabs contain between 60 and 90 percent of THC, so it’s paramount to mind the dosage. Here is how to dab properly:
1. Heating the Nail
Grab your torch and place it directly against the nail to start heating it. While you wait around 20-40 seconds until your nail cools off a little bit, let’s go to the next step.
2. Preparing the Dab
To prepare your dab, take the dabber and carefully dose your concentrate before transferring it onto the hot nail. If you’re new to concentrates, don’t try to impress your friends — start with a smaller portion of the dab and enjoy your first spiced up cannabis experience!
3. Inhaling
After applying your concentrate onto the nail, you can start inhaling slowly. If the vapor is too harsh, there are three options: you’ve measured too much of the concentrate for a single dab, the nail is not cool enough, it may simply be just the harsh nature of your dab.
A Final Hit on Dabs
People have fallen in love with dabs not only for their superior medicinal benefits but also for the invaluable recreational experience they provide.
When preparing for your first dabbing session, always make sure you buy concentrates from a reputable source, as they may vary when it comes to strength and purity. Don’t forget to start with small doses before you completely indulge in your dabbing adventure, especially if you’re new to this method of consumption.
Do you have any experience with dabbing? What are your favorite cannabis concentrates to dab?
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