CBD is the phytochemical in the hemp plant that you see everywhere these days. And if you're a CBD enthusiast, you may be familiar with different CBD consumption methods. While many people know you can take CBD as a tincture or eat CBD edibles, you may not know about CBD dabs. Dabbing is the action of inhaling vapor from something called CBD concentrates.
{{ article.excerpt }}Should you take CBD dabs? How do you dab CBD? How do they make you feel? Are they more effective than other consumption forms? We'll answer these questions and more. Here's our guide to CBD dabs, for both newbies and experienced users.
What Are CBD Dabs?
Before we discuss CBD dabs, let's discuss what concentrates are.
Concentrates are exactly what they sound like. Concentrated forms of cannabinoids. In case you didn't know, cannabinoids are the phytochemicals found in marijuana and hemp plants. The two main cannabinoids are THC and CBD, but we're not talking about THC here.
When you consume CBD concentrates, you're not only consuming isolated forms of CBD. CBD concentrates are more potent. That's because they're not mixed with other compounds. When you take CBD concentrates, you'll experience immediate relief, compared to taking CBD as a tincture or edible. If your CBD concentrates also include terpenes, the flavor is also unparallel.
CBD concentrates come in different forms, including:
- Crystals
- Wax
- Shatter
- Crumble
All of these concentrates have a different consistency. For example, CBD crumble has a malleable texture that falls apart easily. This is different from CBD shatter, which is a solid crystal you have to break. No one concentrate is better than the other. The concentrate you choose depends on personal preference.
The act of consuming cannabis concentrates is called "dabbing." Dabbing involves vaporizing the concentrates at high heat and inhaling the vapor. Vaporizing the concentrates is milder on the lungs, making it a popular consumption method. You can easily dab CBD using a vape pen or a dab rig.
Does a CBD Dab Feel Any Different?
If you've used CBD before, you understand that CBD is non-psychoactive. Other than a slight relaxing sensation, most people don't experience intense effects when using CBD. CBD dabs are slightly more intensified, but not so much to where you won't be able to function.
For example, let's say you've always had success when taking CBD for pain. You'll just feel relief faster and more intensely when you take CBD dabs, but you'll still be able to work, drive, and perform all daily activities just fine.
Do the Effects Last Shorter or Longer?
One of the downsides of dabbing CBD is the effects don't last as long as when you consume it orally. When you vape CBD, it takes effect immediately when it enters your lungs. However, your body doesn't absorb as much of the CBD with this method, so CBD leaves your body quickly.
When you consume CBD, it goes through your digestive system. Your body absorbs more of the CBD into the bloodstream so the effects last longer, especially when you hold the tincture under your tongue.
So, how long do the effects of CBD last when you dab it? On average, you can expect to feel relief for three hours. If you want to experience less intense but longer CBD effects, then take an oral tincture. But if you want intense effects and don't mind taking another puff a few hours later, then choose CBD dabs.
How Do You Shop for CBD Dabs?
Before you go shopping for CBD dabs, always know what to look for in CBD concentrate. First, it's recommended you find a store that specializes in CBD concentrates. These companies know how to make the best products and only deliver quality.
The best store should have a wide selection of products. Their product should also include the full cannabinoid profile including the CBD percentage as well as any other compounds (such as terpenes). All of this information is available in the lab test results (often called the COA — Certification of Analysis).
You can find CBD dabs both online and at in-store dispensaries. But there are many benefits when purchasing CBD dabs online. The biggest benefit is privacy and security. You can order your CBD products at home and have them shipped to you. Most sellers know of fast shipping methods so you don't have to wait too long to receive your CBD products.
How Do You Take CBD Dabs?
There are two main dabbing consumption methods: a dab rig and a vape pen. We will describe the differences here.
Dab Rig
Dab rigs look similar to a traditional water pipe. They're usually made of glass and you fill the pipe with water.
However, using a dab rig is slightly different than a pipe. First, you place a small piece of the concentrate on the "dabber," which is a tool used to break or manipulate the concentrate. Then, heat the dab nail. You either do this with a torch or the internal heating mechanism (if the dab rig has one).
Once the nail is hot, take the dabber and place the CBD dab on the nail. The heat will cause the dab to melt. From here, inhale.
Vape Pen
As you can see, dab rigs can get complex. That's why beginners should use a vape pen. All you have to do is unscrew the vape pen to reveal the coils. Then, take a dabber and break a small piece of the CBD off. Place the CBD on the coils, screw the top back on, turn on the vape pen, press and hold the power button, and inhale.
Are You Ready to Try CBD Dabs?
If you've been using CBD products for a long time, you may be curious about other consumption methods. CBD dabs are highly concentrated forms of CBD that give you the most potent experience. Before you start dabbing CBD, you need to find the best store.
Don't worry, you don't have to look far. We're one of the few stores that specialize in CBD concentrates. We offer everything, from full-spectrum dabs to CBD isolates in every type of concentrate imaginable. Shop at our store today!
