What is Resin
What Is Resin? The Potent Concentrate from Cured Cannabis
In the world of cannabis concentrates, the term "resin" is often a source of confusion. While it can be used broadly to describe any sticky substance from the cannabis plant, in the context of concentrates, it specifically refers to a **solvent-based extract made from dried and cured cannabis flower**. This sets it apart from its more famous cousin, live resin, which is made from fresh, flash-frozen material. Despite the difference in its starting material, cured resin is a highly potent and flavorful concentrate that holds a well-deserved place in the market. Let's break down what it is and why it's a popular choice for many.
What Is Cured Resin?
Cured resin is a cannabis concentrate produced by using a chemical solvent (such as butane or propane) to strip the cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis material. The key differentiator is that the cannabis used for this process has been **dried and cured** in a traditional manner before extraction. The curing process removes moisture and allows the plant’s chemical profile to mature, which can alter the final product's flavor and aroma. The consistency of cured resin can vary widely, from a sticky "sap" to a brittle "shatter" or a creamy "budder," all depending on the post-extraction processing.
Cured Resin vs. Live Resin: The Key Difference
The distinction between cured resin and live resin is all about the starting plant material. **Live resin** is made from cannabis that is flash-frozen immediately after harvest. This preserves the plant's delicate terpenes and fresh, vibrant flavor. On the other hand, **cured resin** is made from dried flower. The drying and curing process causes some of these volatile terpenes to degrade, which results in a different, often more earthy and spicy, flavor profile. While live resin is prized for its fresh aroma, cured resin is often appreciated for its "classic" cannabis taste.
How Is Cured Resin Made?
The process for making cured resin is a standard solvent-based extraction. First, the dried and cured cannabis is packed into a column. Then, a chilled solvent is passed through the material, which pulls out the cannabinoids and terpenes. The resulting solution is then heated in a vacuum oven to purge all residual solvents, leaving behind the final, potent concentrate. The consistency and final appearance of the resin—whether it's shatter, wax, or sauce—are determined by factors like heat, agitation, and the specific solvent used.
Why Is Cured Resin a Popular Choice?
Although live resin often gets the spotlight, cured resin remains a staple in the concentrate market for several good reasons:
- Potency: Cured resin is incredibly potent, often containing THC levels well over 70%. It offers a highly efficient and powerful experience.
- Price: Since it is made from standard dried flower, cured resin is often more affordable to produce and purchase than live resin, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Flavor Profile: For many users, the "classic" flavors of a well-cured cannabis strain are preferred. Cured resin captures the more complex, deep, and earthy notes that are developed during the curing process.
- Versatility: Cured resin can be processed into a wide variety of consistencies, giving consumers a range of options from shatter to badder and everything in between.
Final Thoughts...
Cured resin is a foundational product in the world of cannabis concentrates. While it may not have the vibrant terpene profile of its live counterpart, it offers a potent, reliable, and often more affordable experience. By understanding that cured resin is a concentrate made from traditional, dried flower, you can make a more informed choice and appreciate the unique flavor and effects it has to offer.
