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HOW ARE CARTRIDGES MADE?

The oil in THC cartridges is produced through a process known as cannabis extraction. This process involves separating the active compounds, including THC, from the cannabis plant material to create a concentrated cannabis oil suitable for vaping. There are different methods of extraction, but two common techniques are CO2 extraction and hydrocarbon extraction.

Extraction Methods

and how they are made

CO2 Extraction: This method uses pressurized carbon dioxide to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. It is considered a clean and efficient method because it leaves behind no residual solvents and allows for precise control of the extraction process. CO2 extraction is often used to create full-spectrum oils, but it can also be used to produce distillates.
 

Hydrocarbon Extraction: Hydrocarbon solvents like butane or propane are used to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material. This method can produce high-potency oils but requires careful processing to remove any residual solvents, which can be harmful if consumed. Hydrocarbon extraction is commonly used to produce distillates.

Full Spectrum vs Distillate

let's discuss the differences between full-spectrum and distillate cartridges

Full-Spectrum Cartridges:
 

  1. Composition: Full-spectrum cartridges contain a broader range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant. This includes THC, CBD, minor cannabinoids, and a variety of terpenes. As a result, they aim to replicate the full "spectrum" of effects associated with the original cannabis plant. Full spectrum cartridges are strain-specific and aim to provide the same effects as the flower.

  2. Entourage Effect: Full-spectrum products are believed to produce an "entourage effect," where the various compounds work synergistically to enhance the overall therapeutic benefits and effects of the product.

  3. Flavor and Aroma: Full-spectrum cartridges often retain the natural flavors and aromas of the cannabis strain from which they were extracted, providing a more authentic and complex taste.
     

Distillate Cartridges:

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  1. Composition: Distillate cartridges are highly refined and typically contain a much higher concentration of THC (sometimes up to 90% or more) compared to full-spectrum cartridges. They are typically free of other cannabinoids and terpenes. However, some cultivators do add back in terpenes to try and mimic the strain.

  2. Isolation of THC: The distillation process isolates THC from the cannabis plant material, resulting in a product that primarily delivers a potent and pure THC experience.

  3. Consistency: Distillate cartridges are known for their consistency in terms of THC potency, making it easier for users to control their dosage.

  4. Neutral Flavor: Distillate cartridges often have a more neutral or less distinct flavor compared to full-spectrum cartridges since they are more refined in the extraction process. Some cultivators offer botanical terpenes to create a flavored cartridge.

Cartridge Hardware

let's discuss the hardware and how to consume.

A THC vape cartridge is a small, pre-filled container typically used in vaping devices designed for the consumption of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. These cartridges are specifically created for vaping and are a popular method of consuming THC because of their convenience and discretion.
 

Here's how a THC vape cartridge generally works:
 

  1. Cartridge: The cartridge is a small, sealed container made of glass or plastic. It contains a concentrated cannabis extract, which can include THC, as well as other cannabinoids and terpenes that contribute to the plant's overall effects and flavors.

  2. Vaporizer: Users need a compatible vaporizer device to consume the THC within the cartridge. These devices come in various forms, including vape pens and magnetic drop-in devices. Most cartridges operate on a standard 510-thread battery.

  3. Heating Element: Inside the vaporizer, there is a heating element that heats the concentrated cannabis extract in the cartridge. This process creates a vapor that can be inhaled.

  4. Inhalation: When a user activates the vaporizer (often by pressing a button or inhaling), the heating element warms up the cannabis extract, turning it into a vapor. This vapor is then inhaled into the lungs, where THC and other cannabinoids are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Cartridges by product type

 

Distillate - Distillate cartridges are highly refined and concentrated, offering THC levels up to 80% or higher. Unlike full-spectrum cartridges, they usually lack other cannabinoids and terpenes, though some cultivators will reintroduce terpenes to mimic a specific strain's terpene profile. Distillate cartridges are known for their consistent THC potency and consistency. Additionally, their refinement results in a neutral or less distinct flavor than full-spectrum extracts or botanical distillates.

Full Spectrum - Full Spectrum cartridges are strain-specific extracts that aim to provide the same effects as the flower strain. They are minimally processed and have no extra additives. Full-spectrum cartridges often retain the natural flavors and aromas of the cannabis strain from which they were extracted, providing a more authentic cannabis taste. 

 
Botanical - Botanical-terpene distillates are celebrated for their exquisite taste and aromatic profiles, offering a refined alternative to traditional cannabis extracts. Unlike other concentrates, botanical-terpene distillates are full of flavors derived from natural botanical sources, enhancing the sensory experience for discerning consumers. One of the primary attractions of botanical-terpene distillates is their ability to provide a nuanced taste and flavor profile without the overpowering cannabis taste and smell often associated with other concentrates.

 

Live Resin - “Live” means that the plant was flash frozen at harvest before extracting the “resin” AKA cannabis concentrate. This preserves a lot of the native terpenes and cannabinoids allowing for a refined terpene-rich experience. Live resin is a full spectrum extract but the difference is that it is flash-frozen at extraction rather than using dried and cured flower.

 

Live Rosin - Live Rosin, not to be confused with Live Resin, is the purest form of cannabis concentrates, crafted for the cannaisseur. Live rosin is a solventless extract that is extracted using heat and pressure. It doesn’t get any purer than this!

 

Live Terpene - Live Terpene cartridges have the high potency THC that distillate cartridges offer, paired with terpenes that were extracted live. “Live” means that the plant was flash-frozen at harvest before extracting the terpenes. This preserves a lot of the native terpenes and cannabinoids allowing for a refined terpene-rich experience.

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