By Keivan K, Social Media & Content Creation

Quick Answer: Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts made using solvent-based methods (like hydrocarbon, CO2, or ethanol) or solventless techniques (like hash, rosin, or bubble hash). Each method affects flavor, potency, and texture. All concentrates at Hashtag are rigorously tested and come with a Certificate of Analysis for safety and quality.

Cannabis Concentrates & Extraction Methods

Cannabis concentrates are akin to the "liquor" of the cannabis world, offering a range of sophisticated products with varying potencies and qualities. Here's a detailed look at common cannabis concentrates and their extraction methods.

Hyrdocarbon Extract
Photo credit: Roman Budnyi

Solvent-Based Extractions

Hydrocarbon Extraction Hydrocarbon extraction, using solvents like butane or propane, is a popular method due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to preserve the natural terpene profile. The process involves packing cannabis leaves into tubes, flushing them with the solvent, and then heating the mixture at low temperatures to evaporate the remaining hydrocarbons. The consistency of the end product depends on the quality and terpene content of the raw material. However, there are concerns about potential trace solvents, although all products at Hashtag Cannabis are rigorously tested and come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA).

CO2 Extraction Supercritical CO2 extraction is a versatile method that allows for different end results by adjusting the heat and pressure. Widely used across various industries, CO2 extraction is considered cleaner and safer than hydrocarbon methods. However, it is less effective at preserving all terpenes because the THC in the raw material must be activated before extraction. Despite this, additional steps can capture these terpenes to restore the original profile in the final product. The initial equipment costs for CO2 extraction are higher compared to hydrocarbon systems.

Ethanol Extraction Ethanol extraction is a method that does not require heat or pressure, and uses ethanol, a solvent generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. This method is known for its safety and is used to produce Rick Simpson Oil (RSO). Continued advancements in ethanol extraction are making it an increasingly popular choice.

Solventless Extractions

Old School Methods

Moroccan/Lebanese Hash: This method involves sifting mature cannabis flowers through sieves to create a resinous powder, which is then compressed and heated. The result is a solvent-free hash that provides a full-spectrum high.
Finger Hash/Charas: Originating from Jamaica and India, this technique involves rubbing fresh cannabis flowers against the hands. It produces a solvent-free hash with nuanced effects.

Modern Methods

Dry Sift:
Dry sift is a solventless concentrate made by sifting cannabis through fine micron screens to isolate trichome heads. With careful refinement, it can reach six-star (full melt) quality—melting completely with no residue. Full melt dry sift is prized for its purity, potency, and rich terpene profile.

Note: Kief, often collected from grinders, is an unrefined form of trichomes that includes more plant material. It is not the same as high-grade dry sift.

Ice Water Hash (Bubble Hash):
Bubble hash is made by agitating cannabis in ice water, then filtering trichomes through micron bags. Like dry sift, it’s rated on a 1–6 star scale based on meltability. Six-star bubble hash is full melt: clean, flavorful, and ideal for dabbing or vaporizing.

What is Full Melt / Six-Star Hash?
Six-star, or full melt, refers to the highest grade of solventless hash—whether dry sift or bubble hash. It contains mostly mature trichome heads and melts completely when heated, leaving little to no residue. This purity makes it a connoisseur’s choice for flavor, effect, and clean consumption.

Rosin

Flower Rosin: Made by pressing cannabis flowers with heat and pressure to extract oil.
Hash Rosin: Created by pressing bubble or dry sift hash at low temperatures, resulting in a pure and potent concentrate.

Post-Processing Techniques

Various consistencies are achieved through post-processing techniques such as whipping, heating, and blending. For instance, concentrates with a badder-like consistency are whipped, while those with a jam-like consistency are gently heated. These techniques enhance handleability and extend shelf life.

Fresh vs. Cured Material

The type of starting material, fresh frozen or cured, has a major impact on a concentrate’s flavor, aroma, and overall character.

Live concentrates are made from fresh frozen cannabis, harvested and immediately frozen to preserve the plant’s full terpene and cannabinoid profile. This results in bold, vibrant flavors and strong aromatics. Examples include live resin, live rosin, and some live hash rosin vapes.

⚠️ Note: Not all products labeled “live” are full-spectrum. Some “live” vapes use just live-extracted terpenes blended with THC distillate—offering flavor, but lacking the full complexity of the original plant.

Cured concentrates use dried and cured cannabis, which has gone through a controlled drying process to reduce moisture and develop more stable flavors. While some volatile terpenes are lost, cured extracts often have deeper, more refined profiles. Common cured extracts include rosin, cured hydrocarbon resin, and hash.

Conclusion

Understanding these extraction methods and concentrate types is essential for navigating the diverse products available at Hashtag Cannabis. Every product carried at Hashtag is subject to rigorous testing before it enters our stores and is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (or COA) upon delivery.

Explore our wide range of cannabis concentrates to find the perfect match for your needs.

SHOP REDMOND

How Are Cannabis Concentrates Made?