Explaining Cannabis Resin Types
Cured resin and live resin are cannabis concentrates, but their starting material and flavor profiles differ. Cured resin is made from dried and cured cannabis flowers, while live resin is made from freshly frozen whole plant matter.
Live resin usually contains more terpenes and has a more intense flavor than cured resin, which has a more subtle blend of flavors. However, some cured resins have other botanical terpenes added for an enhanced range of flavors.
Regarding quality and potency, there is generally no clear-cut difference between cured resin and live resin, which comes down to individual preference. Both types of resin offer therapeutic benefits, although live resin contains a higher concentration of cannabis plant terpenes.
Storing both types of resin in a dark, dry, and cool place is essential, but live resin is more sensitive to heat and air, which can destroy terpenes.
Cured Resin vs. Live Resin Effects
The effects of cured resin and live resin are similar to those of cannabis but differ in intensity and flavor profile. Live resin is believed to be more potent due to its higher concentrations of THC and terpenes, resulting in a fuller spectrum experience.
The effects of consuming live resin are typically described as being more energetic, upbeat, and euphoric, with increased energy levels and stimulation of the mind and body.
On the other hand, some users describe cured resin as offering a more well-rounded and all-encompassing high.
The effects of cured resin are similar to those of cannabis, except they may be more intense. However, there is generally no clear-cut difference in quality or potency between cured resin and live resin, which comes down to individual preference.
The potency of THC Resin
The potency of cured resin and live resin is a matter of debate, but live resin is generally considered more potent than cured resin. This is because live resin is a more full-spectrum product, containing a higher concentration of THC and terpenes.
However, some users report that cured resin offers a more well-rounded and all-encompassing high. It is important to note that if you made live resin and cured resin from the same plant, they would have the same cannabinoid profiles.
Live resin does not preserve more THC or CBD but more of the plant's aromatic essential oils, making for a more pleasant smoking experience. Concerning quality and potency, there is generally no clear-cut difference between cured resin and live resin, which comes down to individual preference.
Live & Cured Resin Extraction Processes
The extraction process for live resin differs from that of cured resin in the following ways:
Live Resin Extraction
- Harvested cannabis flower buds are flash-frozen immediately so that the cannabis plant retains more of its trichomes.
- Live resin extraction happens at relatively low temperatures to reduce the risk of destroying the volatile terpenes and the number of residual solvents in the crude extract.
- After extracting the resin, the concentrate is placed in a vacuum chamber to evaporate its residual solvents.
- Live resin is sold at more premium prices than most cannabis plant extracts due to the complex extraction process it must go through.
Cured Resin Extraction
- Cured resin uses cannabis that has been trimmed, dried, and cured first.
- Dried and cured resin can undergo a solvent-based or solventless extraction process.
- Solventless extraction methods include dry sifting, ice water extraction, and more.
The extraction process for live resin involves flash-freezing freshly harvested cannabis flower buds, while the extraction process for cured resin involves using dried and cured cannabis.
Live resin extraction happens at relatively low temperatures to preserve terpenes, while cured resin can undergo various extraction methods.
Consumption Methods
The most popular methods of consuming live resin include:
- Dabbing: Dabbing is the most common and popular way to consume live resin. It involves heating the concentrate on a heated surface, typically a nail or a banger, and inhaling the vapor produced. Dabbing requires a dab rig, torch, and a dab tool to handle the concentrate.
- Vaping: Live resin can also be consumed using a dab pen or cartridge specifically designed for concentrates. These pre-filled cartridges are attached to a battery, heated, and inhaled.
- Smoking: Live resin can be smoked by combining it with traditional cannabis buds, either by sprinkling it on top of a bowl or by rolling it into a joint.
- Live Resin Vape Pen: Live resin pens are specialized vape devices for live resin concentrates, allowing for discreet and portable consumption.
- Other Methods: Traditional dab rigs, e-nails, and nectar collectors are classic ways to consume live resin. These methods require specialized equipment and are commonly used by experienced cannabis users.
Proper storage of live resin in a cool environment, such as a refrigerator, is recommended to maintain its potency and quality.