Marijuana wax is a Cannabis concentrate known for its potency and high THC concentration. It’s a substance that’s extracted from Cannabis plants using a solvent such as butane. Wax is consumed for both medicinal and recreational purposes. Before using it, you should be familiar with some of its qualities and follow certain precautions.

Wax and Cannabis Extracts

Wax, named after the beeswax that it resembles, is a type of Cannabis concentrate. Like other concentrates and extracts, wax is prized for its potency and high levels of THC.

Concentrates and Extractions

Extracts or concentrates have long been used as a way to consume Cannabis in a more potent and concentrated form. The purpose is to keep only the most potent and active chemicals of a plant and dispose of everything else. Many pharmaceutical drugs are similarly concentrated forms of plants and herbs. In the case of Cannabis, the objective is to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes and remove undesirable parts of the plant.

History of Cannabis Extractions and Wax

The history of Cannabis extraction goes back many centuries, though not as far back as the use of Cannabis itself. Cannabis extracts, which utilized concentrated forms of the plant, were used in many drugs in the 19th century before prohibition.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that modern methods of extraction using butane were developed. In the 1990s, BHO (Butane Hash Oil) extraction was discovered, allowing for the creation of extractions with very high THC levels. Wax falls under this category, along with other extracts with different consistencies such as shatter and crumble.

How Is Wax Consumed?

Extracts can be consumed on their own, as in dabbing. A popular method is to use a vaporizer or dab rig, a type of water pipe. The heating element, called a nail, is lit with a butane torch. Because the process involves high heat, at temperatures as high as 600 ℉, it’s essential to use caution. Wax can also be added to the Cannabis flower to make it more potent. You might, for example, add crumble wax to the flower before smoking it.

Risks and Precautions When Using Wax

There are certain risks that you should know about when using wax. Wax has THC concentrations of up to 90%, making it significantly more potent than other forms of Cannabis. For this reason,  it’s best to proceed responsibly and with caution, starting by consuming smaller quantities over long periods of time allow you to measure how cannabis concentrate effects you.

Safety Tips for Dabbing

When dabbing, it’s important to follow the proper safety precautions when preparing it. There are also some guidelines to keep in mind before consuming it.

• Start with a small amount. When using wax or any highly concentrated form of Cannabis, you only need a small amount to experience effects. It’s best to take a single hit and wait at least 15 minutes to find out how you react.
• If you’re sensitive to THC, try CBD wax, which is an extract that only contains CBD and no THC.
• Don’t mix wax with any other psychoactive substance, including alcohol.
• Have a partner nearby, preferably someone who is not indulging.
• Stay hydrated before and after dabbing.

When the proper protocols are followed, wax can provide a powerful Cannabis experience. One of the main benefits is that you only need a small amount to enjoy the effects. If you’re new to this method of consuming Cannabis, however, you should proceed responsibly.

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