One of the Purest Cannabis Forms: Distillate
Cannabis distillate is a refined cannabis extract that undergoes a purification process to remove all unwanted compounds and impurities, leaving behind a highly concentrated form of THC or CBD. It’s known for its potency and lack of flavor or aroma, which makes it incredibly versatile for both recreational and medicinal users. Distillate can contain THC concentrations of 90% or higher, making it far stronger than traditional flower or other cannabis concentrates.
Cannabis distillate has quickly become one of the most popular and versatile forms of cannabis available today. Known for its high THC content and purity, distillate is commonly used in vape cartridges, edibles, tinctures, and even topicals. But what exactly is cannabis distillate, and what makes it different from other cannabis products? In this blog, we’ll explore the world of distillates, breaking down their production, effects, and why many cannabis consumers are drawn to this potent extract. We'll also look at three popular brands carried by The Row House in San Bernardino that offer high-quality distillate products.
What is Cannabis Distillate?
Cannabis distillate is a refined cannabis extract that undergoes a purification process to remove all unwanted compounds and impurities, leaving behind a highly concentrated form of THC or CBD. It’s known for its potency and lack of flavor or aroma, which makes it incredibly versatile for both recreational and medicinal users. Distillate can contain THC concentrations of 90% or higher, making it far stronger than traditional flower or other cannabis concentrates.
Why Cannabis Distillate is Unique:
Unlike other forms of cannabis extract, distillate is stripped of terpenes, lipids, and other cannabinoids, leaving a nearly pure THC or CBD product. This purity makes it ideal for people looking for potent effects or those who prefer to consume cannabis discreetly without the signature flavors or aromas.
How is Cannabis Distillate Manufactured?
The manufacturing process for cannabis distillate is intensive and requires advanced technology, typically through a method called “short path distillation” or “fractional distillation.” Here’s a simplified overview of the steps:
Extraction: The process starts with extracting raw cannabinoids from cannabis flower using a solvent such as CO2, ethanol, or hydrocarbon.
Winterization: In this step, the extract is mixed with alcohol and frozen to remove any residual plant fats, waxes, and lipids that could compromise the purity of the final product.
Decarboxylation: The purified extract is then heated to activate the THC, a process called decarboxylation, which allows the distillate to be potent and ready for consumption.
Distillation: The final step is where the extract goes through a high-tech distillation process. By applying heat and a vacuum, manufacturers are able to isolate and separate cannabinoids, leaving behind a highly purified THC or CBD product.
The result is a clean, potent, and odorless extract that’s incredibly versatile and favored for its purity and ease of use.
How Does Distillate Differ From Other Cannabis Products?
Distillate is unique among cannabis products due to its high purity and potency. Unlike live resin, which retains the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids for a full-spectrum experience, distillate is almost entirely THC or CBD, with most terpenes and other compounds removed.
Key Differences from Other Forms of Cannabis:
Potency: Distillates generally contain 85-95% THC, making them far more potent than flower, which typically contains 10-30% THC.
Flavor and Aroma: Because distillates lack terpenes, they don’t have the flavor or smell found in other cannabis forms. This can be a pro for those who want a discreet experience but may be a con for those who enjoy the flavors and aromas of cannabis.
Versatility: Distillates can be used in a variety of ways, from vaping and dabbing to mixing into edibles or tinctures, offering users a highly versatile product.
Is Distillate Better than Smoking Flower?
The answer depends on what you’re looking for in a cannabis experience. Distillate offers a higher THC concentration and is often favored for its potency, convenience, and versatility. Here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of distillate versus flower:
Distillate: With its high THC levels, distillate provides a strong and immediate effect, perfect for users seeking a powerful high or those who want to discreetly dose their cannabis intake. It’s also an excellent choice for edibles and topicals since it doesn’t have a strong flavor or aroma.
Flower: Cannabis flower provides a full-spectrum experience with the natural terpenes and cannabinoids intact, creating the “entourage effect.” Many users prefer this experience for its balanced, natural effects and complex flavors and aromas. However, smoking flower is less discreet and can be harsher on the lungs than vaping distillate.
In summary, if you’re looking for potency and versatility, distillate is often the better choice. However, if you enjoy the natural flavors and benefits of the whole plant, you may prefer smoking flower or opting for other full-spectrum products.
Does Distillate Contain Higher THC Levels?
Yes! Distillate is one of the most potent cannabis products on the market, with THC concentrations often reaching 85-95%. In comparison, cannabis flower usually contains anywhere from 10-30% THC. This high THC level means that distillate can provide a powerful effect with just a small dose, making it ideal for those seeking strong, immediate results.
Popular Distillate Brands at The Row House in San Bernardino
1. Heavy Hitters
Heavy Hitters is known for producing some of the strongest and purest distillate cartridges in California. Their products are made with ultra-potent distillate combined with strain-specific terpenes, allowing users to enjoy both potency and a flavorful experience. Heavy Hitters offers a wide range of strains and effects, making it a favorite for both recreational and medical consumers looking for a reliable, high-THC product.
2. Kurvana
Kurvana is a premium brand that focuses on quality, purity, and natural flavor. Known for its meticulous extraction and distillation processes, Kurvana delivers distillates that are smooth and flavorful, while still providing a powerful effect. Their ASCND line of distillate cartridges is particularly popular, featuring high THC levels and carefully curated strain options. Kurvana is ideal for users seeking a high-end experience with consistent potency and flavor.
3. Alpine Vapor
Alpine Vapor has a reputation for producing clean, potent distillate products that are free from additives, fillers, or cutting agents. Alpine’s distillate cartridges are known for their purity and strain-specific options, delivering a smooth and potent experience every time. Their dedication to quality and lab-tested products make Alpine Vapor a trusted choice among San Bernardino’s cannabis enthusiasts.
Let’s wrap this up!
Cannabis distillate is a powerhouse in the cannabis world, offering high potency, versatility, and a discreet experience that appeals to many users. Its lack of flavor and high THC levels make it ideal for mixing into other products or using on its own for an intense, pure experience. Whether you’re a new user or a seasoned cannabis consumer, distillate offers a unique and potent way to enjoy cannabis.
If you’re interested in trying distillate, The Row House in San Bernardino carries some of the top brands, including Heavy Hitters, Kurvana, and Alpine Vapor. Each of these brands offers high-quality, reliable distillate products to meet a variety of needs and preferences. Come take a look at: 1975 Diners Ct San Bernardino, CA or our online menu HERE!
The Rise of Cannabis Cartridges
The cannabis industry has seen an explosion of product innovations, with one of the most popular being the cannabis cartridge, or "cart." This tiny, potent, and user-friendly product has carved out its own space in the market and changed how people consume cannabis, especially in states like California. But what exactly are cannabis cartridges, how did they come to be, and why are they so popular with consumers? Let’s dive into the world of carts and explore what makes them unique and in demand.
Did you grab a Cart yet?
The cannabis industry has seen an explosion of product innovations, with one of the most popular being the cannabis cartridge, or "cart." This tiny, potent, and user-friendly product has carved out its own space in the market and changed how people consume cannabis, especially in states like California. But what exactly are cannabis cartridges, how did they come to be, and why are they so popular with consumers? Let’s dive into the world of carts and explore what makes them unique and in demand.
What Are Cannabis Cartridges?
Cannabis cartridges are pre-filled units containing a cannabis extract or oil, which can be vaporized and inhaled using a vape pen or battery device. These cartridges are typically small, cylindrical units that connect to a battery and heat the oil, producing a vapor that users inhale. The convenience, potency, and discreet nature of carts make them especially popular among cannabis consumers.
Types of Cannabis Cartridges:
Distillate Cartridges: The most common type, using refined cannabis oil with high THC concentrations.
Live Resin Cartridges: These use flash-frozen cannabis to retain the plant’s full profile of terpenes and cannabinoids.
CO2 Cartridges: Created using CO2 extraction, preserving some of the plant’s original flavors and providing a more natural taste.
The Evolution of Cannabis Cartridges
The development of cannabis cartridges was driven by consumer demand for a cleaner, more discreet alternative to smoking. Advances in extraction and vaping technology made it possible to isolate THC and other cannabinoids in potent, smokeless forms. Initially, vaping was popularized in the tobacco market, but cannabis companies quickly adopted the technology, refining it to suit cannabis extracts.
As legalization spread, the need for controlled, dose-specific, and convenient cannabis products increased. Carts became a popular option for both seasoned consumers and newcomers, offering an easy way to enjoy the effects of cannabis without needing to roll, pack, or smoke anything combustible.
Why Are Cartridges So Popular?
Several factors contribute to the popularity of cannabis cartridges:
Discretion: Carts are small, produce minimal odor, and can be used discreetly in a variety of settings.
Convenience: Users can easily carry a cart and battery in their pocket or bag, allowing for quick and easy use anywhere.
Potency and Dosage Control: Many carts are highly potent, with some containing over 80% THC. This allows users to take just a few puffs to achieve their desired effects, and the ability to control doses easily.
How Cartridges Affect Users Differently
Using a vape cart affects the body and mind differently than smoking, edibles, or other forms of cannabis. With vaping, THC and other cannabinoids are absorbed quickly through the lungs, leading to near-instantaneous effects similar to smoking. However, since there is no combustion, carts produce vapor rather than smoke, which some users find less harsh on the lungs.
The high from a cart tends to be powerful but shorter in duration than the effects from edibles, which take longer to kick in but last several hours. For those who prefer a quicker, controlled experience, carts can offer an ideal balance between immediacy and potency.
Top 3 Cannabis Cartridge Brands in California
1. Stiiizy
Stiiizy has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the cannabis cartridge market. Founded in California, the brand is known for its proprietary pod system, which pairs with a sleek, pen-style battery. Stiiizy's offerings include distillate, live resin, and CDT (Cannabis Derived Terpenes) pods, allowing users to choose from a wide range of effects, from uplifting sativas to relaxing indicas. Stiiizy is particularly popular for its high-potency products and stylish, durable hardware.
2. Raw Garden
For cannabis enthusiasts who prioritize purity and flavor, Raw Garden offers a line of high-quality, live resin carts made from sun-grown, single-source cannabis plants. Raw Garden uses a refined live resin process that preserves a plant's full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, giving users an authentic and flavorful experience. Known for their strain-specific offerings, Raw Garden’s cartridges are prized for delivering consistent quality and potency.
3. West Coast Cure
West Coast Cure has established itself as a premium cannabis brand, widely respected for its high-quality concentrates, particularly its potent live resin and cured resin cartridges. Known for bold flavors and heavy-hitting effects, West Coast Cure’s carts cater to experienced users looking for a powerful experience. Each cartridge offers strain-specific options that deliver a rich terpene profile, providing a full-bodied, flavorful experience that stays true to the original plant. For California consumers looking for high-potency carts with intense flavor, West Coast Cure remains a top choice.
Final Thoughts
The cannabis cartridge market is booming, especially in states like California, where access to quality products and consumer education has helped carts become a go-to option. The convenience, potency, and user-friendly experience they offer have made them a popular alternative to more traditional methods of cannabis consumption. Whether a user is seeking a discreet experience, quick relief, or a specific flavor and effect, the cannabis cart market offers something for everyone, with brands like Stiiizy, Raw Garden, and West Coast Cure leading the way.
As technology and consumer preferences continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovation in this space, offering cannabis users new and exciting ways to enjoy their favorite plant.
The Row House has a large AND growing selection of Carts for you!
Pop in and check it out at: 1975 Diners Ct in San Bernardino… Or our online menu HERE!