Are you a cannabis connoisseur looking to try something new? You’ve probably heard of live resin as one of the latest trends in the industry. But what is live resin and why people are so excited about it? Live resin is a type of concentrated cannabis product made by flash-freezing freshly harvested, uncured plants — making it distinctly different from traditional concentrate products. This blog post will break down what makes live resin unique, how it’s created, its fantastic benefits, and provide advice for those interested in trying this innovative extract. So if you’re ready to explore the world of live resin extracts, keep reading!

THE BENEFITS OF LIVE RESIN

Terpenes are the natural compounds found in cannabis that give it its distinct aromas and flavors. Live resin vs. distillate is a complex topic, but to summarize, live resin is made from fresh, flash-frozen cannabis plants as opposed to dried ones (use by distillate). Live resin also used a colder temperature butane extraction process. This process helps preserve the terpenes that usually get lost in the drying and curing processes. As a result, live resin retains a strong, full-flavored profile that closely mirrors the aroma and taste of the original strain.

 In addition to its rich flavor, live resin is highly potent, often boasting higher levels of THC or CBD compared to other cannabis products. This makes it an excellent choice for medical marijuana patients and recreational users who desire stronger effects. The combination of high terpene and cannabis compounds provides a more complex, well-rounded experience often referred to as the “entourage effect.” This refers to the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, enhancing the overall effects of the product. So, whether you’re after therapeutic benefits or a more intense high, live resin offers a unique and powerful experience.

TOOLS NEEDED TO SMOKE LIVE RESIN

To fully enjoy the experience of smoking live resin, you’ll need a few essential tools. There are two primary methods of consuming live resin – dabbing or vaping. The method you choose will determine the tools you need.

DABBING LIVE RESIN

For dabbing, you would need a dab rig – a special type of water pipe designed for use with concentrates like live resin. The dab rig consists of a nail (where you place the resin), a dome (which captures the vapor), and a water chamber. The nail can be made from various materials, including quartz, ceramic, or titanium, each affecting the flavor and heating time differently.

 A torch is necessary to heat the nail on your dab rig. Butane torches are most commonly used due to their ability to rapidly heat the nail to high temperatures. A regular lighter isn’t suitable as it won’t get hot enough.

 You’ll also need a dabber tool, which is a small rod used to apply the live resin onto the heated nail. Some dabbers come with a carb cap at the end, which can be used to cover the nail, controlling airflow and maximizing vapor production.

VAPING LIVE RESIN 

If you prefer a more straightforward and convenient method, a pre-filled live resin vape pen could be ideal. These devices come with cartridges filled with live resin, eliminating the need for manual dabbing. All you need to do is charge the pen, attach the cartridge, and you’re ready to go. Disposable live resin vapes have also recently surged in popularity. These type of vape devices have a battery prebuilt into the device as a single unit, eliminating the need to attach a cartridge to a battery (thus, making a separate battery purchase unnecessary.)

If you choose a dab rig, it’s recommended to have a non-stick silicone dab mat or container for handling live resin, as it can be quite sticky. And regardless which method, you’ll need your live resin to be preferably stored in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency and flavor profile.

Safety Precautions When Smoking Live Resin

Smoking live resin can provide a potent and flavorful cannabis experience, but it’s also important to prioritize safety. You should determine the THC content of live resin first by viewing the lab result. THCA live resin in particular can be quite powerful, especially for those new to cannabis concentrates. Start with a small dose, especially if you’re not used to the effects of high-THC products. You can always add more, but you can’t take it back once you’ve consumed it.

Proper ventilation is also crucial when dabbing any form of cannabis, including live resin. Make sure the area is well-ventilated to disperse the smoke and maintain good air quality. This is particularly important for dabs because if you’re using a torch with your rig, they can produce harmful gases.

Ensure all equipment is used correctly and safely. If you’re using a dab rig, handle the torch carefully to avoid burns, and ensure the nail has cooled down before touching it. Always place your rig on a stable, heat-resistant surface to prevent accidental tipping.

If you’re using a vape pen, make sure it’s charged using the appropriate charging device – don’t use a charger that wasn’t intended for your device as this can lead to overheating or even explosions. Also, keep your vape pen clean to avoid buildup that can impact function and flavor.

Lastly, never operate heavy machinery or drive under the influence of cannabis. Even if you feel in control, your reaction times and cognitive function can be impaired. Always use responsibly and in a safe environment.

Where To Buy Live Resin

Finding quality live resin can be done both in physical stores or online. Your choice may depend on your preference, but local laws can also play a role in your decision. Here are some general tips to guide you:

Physical Stores:

Local Dispensaries: Many cannabis dispensaries carry a variety of products, including live resin. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance based on your preferences

Specialty Stores: Some areas have specialty stores that focus on cannabis concentrates like live resin. These stores may offer a wider variety than general dispensaries. Hemp product stores like CBD shops and vape shops offer legal sales in states that are federally illegal for recreational and/or medical cannabis.

Online Web-stores

Online Dispensaries: There are numerous online dispensaries that sell a variety of cannabis products, including live resin. These shops range from hemp-derived products to regulated cannabis. Regulated online dispensaries will not ship to you – they typically require placing an order and driving to the physical store to pick it up, or ordering and getting it delivered if the service is offered in your area (discussed in the next paragraph.)

Delivery Services: Online dispensaries that offer a delivery service enables you to order live resin and other cannabis products directly to your home.

Online options offer convenience and the ability to browse different products at your own pace. Before purchasing, always ensure the legality of cannabis in your location. Look for stores or websites with positive reviews and a reputation for quality. Always buy from sources that provide lab-tested products to ensure safety and quality. Also, consider consulting with a knowledgeable professional or doing your own research to understand what type of live resin will best suit your needs and preferences.

Hemp vs. Regulated Cannabis Live Resin

You are probably wondering which to choose when it comes to hemp vs. “cannabis” live resin. At the time of writing this blog, the main difference between hemp and legally regulated cannabis live resin is just one thing: a single cannabinoid – delta-9-thc. Most people don’t know that hemp and cannabis are the same thing. There is one governing idea that separates the two – the delta-9-thc content. If the delta-9-thc level exceeds 0.3% in the live resin or any other cannabis extract, it is considered regulated by law. 

Hemp live resin will usually contain high CBDA and low THCA, but with the emergence of THCA flower, THCA live resin is also now becoming popluar in the legal hemp market. You will experience similar effects to a legally regulated delta-9-thc live resin with a THCA product. Many online hemp shops and brands have the option for both high CBD and THC live resins.

Conclusion

Live resin has become more popular as of late due to its high concentration of terpenes and cannabinoids. Not only does it offer incredible potency, but the unique flavors and aromas found in different live resins can make the process all the more enjoyable. We hope that through this post we have been able to provide you with a deeper understanding of live resin and what goes into smoking it. Make sure to always be aware of your local laws when buying or smoking live resin, and always take caution when using any tools necessary for the process. From harvesting to terpene profiles – a great deal goes into producing quality live resin products. Have you experienced live resin? Let us know in the comments below!