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Missouri Cannabis Education
What ’ s the Difference Between Consuming
Cannabis Flower and Concentrates ?
by Leah Maurer , contributing writer
Leah
Leah Maurer , a native Missourian , is a canna journalist and activist living in Portland , OR . She is a co-owner of The Weed Blog www . theweedblog . com Co-Owner 420-420 Digital Media Solutions and the text code 420-420 . In 2014 , Maurer founded Moms for Yes on Measure 91 through grassroots efforts alone , which proved pivotal in adult-use legalization in Oregon . During that time , she also co-founded Show-Me Cannabis to help launch the legalization effort in Missouri . Maurer is a social justice activist at the core and hopes to see the end to the prohibition of cannabis globally .
As cannabis consumption methods evolve , consumers have an ever-expanding variety of new products to explore . Two of the most popular cannabis options are flower and concentrates . While they are both derived from the cannabis plant , they offer vastly different experiences in terms of effects , consumption methods , and dosing . Understanding these distinctions can help novice consumers make informed choices that best suit their needs , preferences , and lifestyles .
Cannabis flower refers to the dried and cured blossoms ( the “ buds ”) of the cannabis plant . It ’ s the most traditional form of cannabis and is widely recognized for its association with smoking or vaporizing . The versatility of flower makes it appealing to many users . Common consumption methods include smoking it in pre-rolls ( joints ), pipes , or bongs . Another increasingly popular option is vaporizing , which involves heating the flower with a dry herb vaporizer to release cannabinoids without combustion . Additionally , cannabis flower can be decarboxylated and infused into oils or butter , making it a staple for those who prefer to make their edibles .
Dosing with cannabis flower is relatively straightforward , though it varies depending on the strain and its cannabinoid profile . Most cannabis flower contains THC levels ranging from 10-25 %, with some high-potency strains reaching even higher concentrations .
● New consumers are typically advised to start with a small amount — around 0.25 grams or less — and gradually increase as they become familiar with its effects .
● One advantage of using flower is the ability to manage dosing better , as its potency is lower when compared to concentrates , so it allows for greater control .
● The effects of cannabis flower are usually felt within minutes when smoked or vaporized , and the overall effects typically last one to three hours .
● Many users appreciate the balanced experience provided by flower and the benefits derived from what many refer to as the “ entourage ” effect , a synergistic interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes that enhances the overall experience of consuming the plant .
Cannabis concentrates , in contrast , are highly potent extracts made by isolating cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material . These products come in a variety of forms , such as wax , shatter , oil , live resin , and rosin , each offering unique textures and properties . The primary appeal of concentrates lies in their potency , with THC levels often ranging from 50-90 % or sometimes even higher . This makes them an attractive option for experienced users or medical patients seeking fast and effective relief from chronic conditions or more severe symptoms . However , the high potency of concentrates also requires careful attention to dosing , as overconsumption can lead to overwhelming effects .
The methods for consuming concentrates differ significantly from those used for cannabis flower . 1 . One of the most popular techniques is dabbing , which involves heating the concentrate on a hot surface ( often called a nail ) and inhaling the resulting vapor through a specialized rig .
2 . Vape pens are another convenient and discreet option . They feature pre-filled cartridges that allow for easy use on the go .
3 . Some concentrates , like tinctures , are formulated for sublingual administration , offering a smoke-free alternative .
12 February 2025