What are Solventless Concentrates?

The more you get into the world of cannabis concentrates, the more you appreciate the nuanced differences of each type. However, few attributes cause a distinctive split in cannabis concentrate types, like solvent-based versus solventless concentrates. Solventless concentrates are often the preference, but why is that the case? Take a closer look at solventless concentrates below, how they are made, and how they are unique.

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What Are Solventless Concentrates?

Solventless cannabis concentrates, simply stated, or cannabis concentrates made without the use of solvents during the extraction process. This process may involve a variety of methods depending on the type of concentrate. However, most solventless concentrates are made using heat, pressure, ice, or other mechanical processes.

Solventless concentrates like resin or hash are not typically as potent in terms of THC. The extraction process is not as stringent, so the extracts contain higher levels of terpenes and some lingering plant material. Nevertheless, these extracts can be exceptionally flavorful and still very potent at 60% THC and up.

By contrast, concentrates made with solvents rely on chemical solvents like butane or ethanol. These chemical solvents can produce highly potent extracts, some at 90% THC or higher.

Types of Solventless Cannabis Concentrates

Rosin

Rosin is created by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flowers or hash, extracting a potent oil rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. This press method preserves the plant’s natural flavors and is popular for its purity and true-to-the-strain flavor and effects.

Bubble Hash

Bubble hash is made by agitating cannabis in ice water, separating trichomes from the plant material. The trichomes are then collected and dried, resulting in a concentrated product that retains much of the plant’s terpene profile and potency.

Kief (Dry Sift)

Kief is composed of the resinous trichomes that fall off cannabis flowers. It can be collected by sieving dried cannabis through fine mesh screens, yielding a potent powder that can be used on its own or some prefer to press the kief into hash bricks.

Differences Between Solventless Concentrates and Solvent Concentrates at a Glance

Here’s an in-depth look at the differences between solventless concentrates and those made with solvents:

• Extraction Method: Solventless uses heat, pressure, or mechanical processes; solvent utilizes chemical solvents like butane or ethanol.
• Purity: Solventless is generally considered purer, free from residual solvents; solvent may contain trace solvents if not properly purged.
• Flavor Profile: Solventless often preserves more natural terpenes for richer flavors; solvent flavor may vary based on extraction and purging.
• Production Cost: Solventless is typically more labor-intensive and costly to produce; solvent is generally more cost-effective due to quicker methods.

Solventless Concentrates FAQs

Is live resin a solventless concentrate?

Live resin is not made using a solventless extraction method. However, it goes through such a stringent purging process during production that resin can indeed be free from the slightest trace of residual solvents. This is why you will sometimes see resin labeled as “solvent-free”. In other words, the concentrate has been thoroughly tested and found to be perfectly free of the solvents used in extraction.

Are solventless concentrates better?

All cannabis customers have their own opinions on this particular question. Many do prefer solventless concentrates because they feel they are more natural or a better representation of the plant due to terpene and cannabinoid preservation. Nevertheless, a lot of people also prefer concentrates made with solvents because they tend to have a higher potency.

Is it true that solventless concentrates lose potency faster?

Yes, solventless concentrates can lose potency faster due to their more natural composition, which often includes a higher terpene content. These may be more susceptible to degradation from heat, light, and air exposure. Proper storage in a cool, dark place can help maintain their potency longer.

Discover a Diverse Collection of Cannabis Extracts at Rocky Mountain High

Whether you prefer solvent-based extracts due to their higher potency or solventless concentrates, you can always find both at Rocky Mountain High. Take a look at the menu nearest your location to track down your favorite products and order ahead for pickup.

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