What Is a Marijuana Dab and How Is It Different from Smoking Weed?

Since the legalization of Marijuana, many different methods are being introduced to take the healing herb. These include vaping, smoking, oils, edibles and creams. Each of these methods has its unique effect. Dabbing has become more popular in recent years, especially in states where weed is legal. People turn to it for its strong and fast-acting effects, but many are still unfamiliar with it.

You must have heard how the effect of dabbing is a lot more than other methods. It is important to understand different methods of consuming Marijuana, and work with a licensed physician to select the one that is most suited for your symptoms. So what exactly is a dab? How does dabbing work? What are the types of dabs? And how is it different from smoking weed? This article will break down the simplest way to understand Marijuana dabbing and other forms of taking Cannabis.

What is a Marijuana dab?

Dabbing is a method of consuming highly concentrated cannabis extracts, known as dabs. They deliver a much higher dose of Marijuana to give an intense effect. A marijuana dab is a concentrated form of cannabis extract. It’s much more potent than regular weed because it contains a high amount of THC. People use dabs for:

• Stronger effects
• Fast medical relief
• To try something more intense than a flower

But if you have never tried it before, dabbing can seem a little overwhelming. The gear looks complicated, the effects hit fast, and it’s easy to go overboard if you’re not careful. For many, it feels like stepping into a totally different part of the cannabis world.

Marijuana dabs are available in different textures, such as sticky, thick and gooey, or crystalline. The texture depends on the process used to create them.

What are the different types of dabs?

It is always helpful to know that there are different types of dabs. Each type has its own distinct look and has a different texture. The most common types of marijuana dabs available include:

• Wax: A soft Cannabis concentrate that is sticky. It is easy to handle and perfect for dabbing.
• Diamonds: Pure and crystal-like chunks of THCA that are extremely strong.
• Rosin: A solvent-free concentrate made by pressing cannabis flower or hash with heat and pressure while preserving natural flavors.
• Crumble: A dry and crumbly concentrate that’s less sticky but easy to break apart.
• Sugar: A sticky concentrate that looks like sugar crystals. This type has a rich flavor.
• Shatter: A solid glass-like concentrate that breaks into pieces and offers a clean and potent hit.
• Budder: A creamy and smooth concentrate with a buttery texture that’s easy to work with.
• Live Resin: A flavorful concentrate made from fresh and frozen cannabis plants to preserve terpenes and aromas.

What is a safe way to take a dab?

Dabbing might seem a little confusing, especially for beginners. That’s why it’s important to start with the basics. And that begins with having the right equipment.

1. Equipment You May Need

Make sure you have all the right equipment before you start dabbing:

• Dab rig: A water pipe made for concentrates (looks like a small bong).
• Nail: The part you heat up to vaporize the dab.
• Torch: A small butane torch used to heat the nail or banger.
• Dab tool: A small metal or glass tool to scoop and apply your concentrate.
• Carb cap: A lid that helps trap heat and improve vaporization.
• Concentrate: Your dab (wax, shatter, crumble, etc.).

You can follow the steps given below for a smooth effect

2. Prepare your dab rig

Add a small amount of water to the base of your dab rig. Test the water level by inhaling through the mouthpiece without the nail in place. Pour a little out and try again until it feels right.

Concentrates are highly potent, so scoop a small amount (about the size of a rice grain) using your dab tool. You must check with licensed physicians before taking the amount. It can be very potent, so take the amount very carefully.

3. Heat the nail

You can heat the torch to heat the quartz nail evenly. Heat it until it starts to turn slightly red or begins to glow.

4. Allow the nail to cool down

After heating the nail, wait about 30 to 60 seconds before applying your dab.The nail should be at an optimal temperature.

5. Use the dab

Once the nail reaches its ideal temperature, place the dab onto the nail using your dab tool. The dab will start to vaporize as soon as it touches the hot surface. Be careful and wait for the nail to be at the right temperature.

6. Inhale slowly

Inhale slowly through the mouthpiece. A gentle inhale gives you the smoothest hit. Do not take a big breath in.

Exhale the vapor and take a moment to feel it. Dabs hit quickly and strongly, so taking too much can be overwhelming.

After you finish your dab, clean the nail with a cotton swab or use a drop of isopropyl alcohol to clean any sticky spots.

Dabbing vs. Smoking Weed: What’s the difference?

What is the difference between dabbing and smoking? This question has been on a lot of people’s minds lately. Both ways get you high, but how are they different? And which one might be better for you?

The table below covers all the key points you need to know about dabbing vs. smoking.

Dabbing and smoking are just two different ways to use weed. There’s no clear winner, and different people choose one over the other based on personal choice. One thing that’s generally true is that dabbing is less harsh on your lungs compared to smoking.

Is a Marijuana dab safe for you?

Like with any Marijuana product, it is important to understand how to use it and how much to use. The strain, dose and the method used impact the effect patients feel is significant. You must complete your certification and work with a licensed Marijuana physician to choose which product to use. If you want to use dabbing, discuss it with your physician, and always take only the amount prescribed. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is wax dab concentrate?

Wax dab concentrate consists of three words: wax, dab, and concentrate. The term “dab” is a slang word for cannabis concentrates. It means that “wax dab concentrate” is the same thing as wax concentrate or wax dab. A wax concentrate is a highly potent cannabis extract made from cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the cannabis plant.

2. Is dabbing better than smoking?

There is no definitive answer to it. However, many people prefer dabbing over smoking because of more potent effects, faster relief, and being less harsh on the lungs.

3. How long does a dab high last?

A dab high lasts around 1 to 3 hours. You will feel the high within a few minutes, with the strongest effects showing up after half an hour. However, the high may last longer or shorter depending on how much dab you consume and your tolerance.

4. What does it feel like to take a dab for the first time?

For the first minute or two, it might feel like nothing is happening. But then your heart starts racing, time slows down, and you may find yourself laughing at the silliest things. Then, a feeling of paranoia might hit, and you may start wondering if everyone is staring at you. In short, you’ll experience a roller coaster of emotions. You should always check with your physician, if you can safely consume a Marijuana dab.

5. Does smoking marijuana cause lung cancer?

There’s no clear evidence that smoking marijuana causes lung cancer, but it may still harm your lungs. Marijuana smoke contains almost the same harmful chemicals as tobacco smoke, which can irritate the lungs.

6. Does smoking marijuana raise blood pressure?

Yes, temporarily. The heart rate goes up, and blood pressure may rise for a short time right after using marijuana. This effect can be stronger in people who are new to cannabis or who use a lot at once.