Best Cannabis Strains for Beginners
September 13, 2023
Listen, if you’re new to cannabis, you shouldn’t start with a high THC strain like White Widow, but then, what are you supposed to try? Whether you plan on microdosing or having a full-on session, we’ve got you covered. Think of us as your cannabis sherpa—we’re going to guide you through the things to know—and the things to avoid—to make the most out of your first cannabis experience.
Tips for Choosing a Beginner’s Strain
Every future cannabis enthusiast has to start somewhere, but where to begin? We want to make sure your first experience is a positive one, easing your endocannabinoid system into this new adventure. Here are a few recommendations for when you’re trying to choose the right beginner strain for you.
Look for High CBD, Low THC Strains
CBD is an interesting cannabinoid when it gets into your system with other cannabinoids, like THC. It seems to quiet THC’s intoxicating effects, making a strain a little less potent-feeling than it might have been if there was no CBD. Because of this, high CBD and lower THC strains can be a great place to start for beginners.
Pay Attention to Terpenes
Your experience with a strain like White Widow is likely going to be different from your experience with a strain like ACDC. Why is that if both of them have THC in them? Well, researchers think that it may have something to do with the other compounds in the plant, like terpenes.
Terpenes are the reason that marijuana has a certain scent and taste to it, but researchers also think that terpenes play a role in how a strain makes you feel. This is why it’s important to understand the entourage effect, which is the effect a particular strain’s compounds—cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes—interact with your endocannabinoid system.
Understand Delivery Methods
How you consume your marijuana can change the experience, which is why it’s important to understand the different cannabis delivery methods. For example, when smoking flower you should expect to feel the effects within about 10 minutes and lasting up to an hour. Cannabis edibles can take up to two hours to produce an effect because your body will need to digest and metabolize the product, but it can last for up to three hours.
Top 5 Marijuana Strains for Cannabis Newbies
The best strains for you are the ones you enjoy, but when you’re not sure what you like, it can help to have a starting point. Here are five strains that should be on your must-try list to see how the compounds in them pair up with your endocannabinoid system. Please remember, though, that you should start low and go slow with any of these strains–especially those that have 20% THC or more.
Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a sativa-leaning hybrid brought to us by the cross of Blueberry and Haze, two wildly popular strains in their own right. Blue Dream manages to hold on to some of the flavors and aromas that its parent strains have, including that delicious blueberry flavor and the sweet, earthy aromas. These sensory qualities may make it more enjoyable for beginners to indulge, but you will still want to take it slow. Blue Dream can contain up to 24% THC, 2% CBD, and 1% CBN. Paying attention to those percentages can help you decide if you want to find other strains with similar profiles.
Jack Herer
One of the most popular sativa-dominant hybrids on the market today, Jack Herer aka The Jack, JH, Premium Jack, or Platinum Jack is another Haze cross like Blue Dream. Only Jack Herer was the product of a Haze meets Northern Lights meets Shiva Skunk arrangement. The moment you consume this strain, you’ll be greeted with a lemon-orange flavor and a similar aroma with pine notes to it too. You’ll also start to feel up to 24% THC in this strain, along with a pinch of CBN at 1%. There’s a reason cannabis enthusiasts love this strain, and you may just find it added to your favorites too.
ACDC
When it comes to beginner-friendly strains, it’s hard to find anything as kind on the endocannabinoid system as ACDC. It has up to only 5% THC and a much higher 12% CBD. For many cannabis enthusiasts, this means a gentler intoxication (compared to other strains) that is complemented by citrus flavors and spicy-sweet aromas. ACDC is truly one of the best entry-level sativa-dominant strains on the market today to consume in order to introduce your body to marijuana, THC, and the other compounds in it.
Harlequin
Columbian Gold, Thai, and Swiss Landrace all came together to make the landrace-born hybrid Harlequin that we love for beginners. Though it has slightly more THC in it than ACDC, at up to 15% THC, it also carries a fairly balanced 10% CBD. This combination may change the way this strain feels in your body compared to other strains with higher THC and less CBD. In addition to its cannabinoid content, Harlequin has a sweet flavor with a mango scent, making it a little spicy, a little fruity, and a lot of fun to enjoy.
Super Silver Sour Diesel
Super Silver Sour Diesel, or SSSD, is a cannabis plant created with a potent cross of Super Silver Haze and Sour Diesel—another combo of super famous marijuana strains. Though it may have famous parents, Super Silver Sour Diesel still makes a name for itself with a sensory explosion of diesel-meets-fruit-meets-spice-meets-pine flavors and aromas that seem to fluctuate with every inhale. While this sativa-dominant strain can have high THC levels at up to 20%, it also has 3% CBD in it, so you may experience the unexpected when you partake in this strain.
Answering FAQs About Low THC Strains
There are a lot of questions (and misconceptions) about low-THC strains. Here are a few answers that may help clear up any confusion:
Is indica or sativa better for beginners?
The differences between indica vs sativa plants are in their physical characteristics and their morphology—not in their effects. This means that you could have a unique experience with either one, depending on the entourage effect on your body’s endocannabinoid system.
What does “low THC” strain mean?
A low-THC strain is a cannabis strain that has a lower percentage of THC. You can often find low THC in full-spectrum products, meaning the THC is balanced with the terpenes and additional cannabinoids in the product.
What does the THC percentage mean?
The THC percentage is an indicator of just how much THC is in the strain compared to other compounds. While it’s a good start when considering how a strain might affect you, there are other factors, like terpenes and CBD content, that are worth considering too.
Finding Cannabis Strains for Beginners
While this list is a great start to finding cannabis strains if you’re a newbie in the cannabis world, you’ll likely have other recommendations from other cannabis enthusiasts too. We all want to share our favorite strains, and our experiences, with other like-minded people. That said, your experience is going to be unique to you and your body, so finding the right cannabis strain for you may just be as easy as trial and error.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
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Most cannabis consumers have experienced “the munchies”—that undeniable urge to snack after consuming some cannabis flower or edibles. But have you ever wondered why cannabis triggers such intense hunger, even when you’ve already eaten?
The answer lies in the way THC interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, stimulating appetite and enhancing your senses. This well-known side effect is actually beneficial for certain medical marijuana patients, but for casual consumers, it’s often just an excuse to indulge in your favorite snacks. In this article, we’ll explore why cannabis makes you hungry and whether there are any benefits to experiencing the munchies.
What are the Munchies?
“The munchies” refers to the intense hunger that often follows cannabis consumption. Research shows that cannabis can stimulate appetite, and this effect can be considered beneficial for patients receiving medical marijuana treatments.1 For example, it may help those with conditions like HIV/AIDS or when undergoing chemotherapy by encouraging the patient to eat when they might otherwise lose their appetite.2
Studies in animals indicate that THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, influences several bodily systems to promote feelings of hunger, which leads us to that irresistible urge to raid the pantry.3
Why Does Cannabis Make You Hungry?
The connection between cannabis and hunger stems from THC’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Specifically, THC binds to the CB1 receptor, which plays a role in regulating appetite. This interaction can make high-calorie foods especially appealing after using cannabis.4
But how exactly does THC trick your brain into thinking you’re hungry?
THC & The Brain’s Feeding System
THC activates specific hunger neurons in the brain, essentially flipping the switch that tells your body it’s time to eat—even when you’re not truly hungry. These neurons typically function to signal when you’ve eaten enough, helping regulate your appetite.5
However, when THC enters the picture, it causes these neurons to act in reverse, tricking your brain into believing you still need food.6 This effect increases your appetite, making everything seem more appealing and satisfying. It’s as if cannabis gives your brain permission to indulge, and suddenly you get the green light to start munching. This is one reason why cannabis is often linked to what we call “the munchies.”7
Dopamine Levels Increase
Cannabis not only triggers hunger signals but also boosts dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter because it’s responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. When you’re high, this increase in dopamine makes eating more enjoyable, enhancing the overall sensory experience.8
The combination of your brain telling you that you’re hungry and the surge of dopamine makes snacking incredibly tempting. This heightened sense of enjoyment turns even the simplest foods into irresistible treats, which is why the munchies are such a well-known side effect of cannabis.9
Food Smells Better
Another fascinating effect of THC is how it heightens your sense of smell. When THC interacts with the CB1 receptors in the brain’s olfactory bulb—responsible for processing odors—it makes these receptors more sensitive. In fact, studies on fasted mice show that THC can increase odor detection, which promotes food intake.10 This heightened sense of smell makes food aromas more intense and appealing, making even the simplest snacks seem irresistible.
So, when you experience the munchies after consuming cannabis, it’s not just because you’re hungrier—it’s also because your brain is perceiving food in a much more enticing and tempting way, making you crave it even more.
Does CBD Make You Hungry?
Unlike THC, CBD is much less likely to make you hungry. While CBD also interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it doesn’t stimulate appetite the way THC does. Instead, CBD is thought to reduce pain or nausea, which can indirectly encourage a person to eat but doesn’t trigger the same hunger signals in the brain.11
Some studies suggest CBD helps regulate insulin production and metabolism, making it more supportive of balanced weight management rather than increasing food cravings. So, while THC is known for causing the munchies, CBD has a much more subtle effect on appetite.12
Are There Benefits to “The Munchies”?
As odd as it may seem, the munchies may have real therapeutic benefits, especially for those dealing with conditions that suppress their appetite. Many medical marijuana patients have long relied on THC’s appetite-stimulating effects to manage health conditions like cancer13 and HIV/AIDS.14
In fact, synthetic THC (Dronabinol) is FDA-approved for treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, as well as managing appetite loss in patients with wasting syndrome.15 Cannabis has also been used to help people with digestive disorders like ulcerative colitis, where maintaining a healthy appetite can be difficult due to inflammation in the digestive tract.16
(It’s important to note that while there seems to be great potential around cannabis as an antiemetic or to increase or manage appetite, more studies are needed.)
FAQs About the Munchies
If you’re still curious about what causes the munchies or how THC affects your appetite, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. From questions about whether edibles cause the munchies to how cannabis strains like sativa or indica play a role in your hunger, here are some frequently asked questions that will help clear things up. And if you still need more info, your local LivWell budtender can give you additional insight into managing the munchies when you consume cannabis.
Can you get the munchies if you eat edibles?
Consuming edibles can trigger the munchies even more than smoking cannabis. The slower digestion of edibles may enhance hunger, making you feel more famished once the THC kicks in.17
Can cannabis cause you to gain weight?
Cannabis likely doesn’t cause weight gain directly. However, by stimulating the appetite, it can lead to increased calorie consumption, which may result in weight gain over time.
Does sativa make you hungry?
THC is responsible for the munchies and is present in both sativa and indica strains. While some believe sativa strains are less likely to trigger hunger, both types of cannabis can stimulate appetite.
Does indica make you hungry?
Just like sativa cannabis strains, indica strains also contain THC, which can make you hungry.
Cannabis and the Munchies
The munchies aren’t just a quirky side effect of cannabis—they have a real potential benefit for those who need help stimulating their appetite. Whether you’re consuming cannabis recreationally or using it for medical purposes, understanding how THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system gives you insight into why you suddenly feel so hungry after consuming cannabis. And while the munchies can be fun to indulge in, talk to your favorite budtender about how to avoid the munchies.
Sources
1. “Why People (and Worms) Get the Munchies After Using Cannabis,” Healthline, April 20, 2023, https://www.healthline.com/health-news/why-you-get-munchies-from-cannabis
2. “The Science Behind Munchies: Cannabis And Your Appetite,” Examine, https://examine.com/articles/cannabis-munchies/
3. “Cannabinoids and appetite: food craving and food pleasure,” National Library of Medicine, April 2009, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19367510/
4. “Exploring the munchies: An online survey of users' experiences of cannabis effects on appetite and the development of a Cannabinoid Eating Experience Questionnaire,” National Library of Medicine, September 2019, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31347452/
5. “Scientists Reveal Why Marijuana Gives You the Munchies,” Newsweek, January 18, 2024, https://www.newsweek.com/marijuana-munchies-cause-1861874
6. “Why smoking pot gives you the munchies, according to cannabis research,” New York Post, April 19, 2024, https://nypost.com/2024/04/19/lifestyle/why-smoking-pot-gives-you-the-munchies-cannabis-research/
7. “This Is Why Cannabis Makes You Hungry, According to Science,” Food & Wine, April 18, 2024, https://www.foodandwine.com/why-does-weed-make-you-hungry-8635468
8. “Why does smoking pot give you the munchies?” CNN Health, April 20, 2024, https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/20/health/munchies-weed-hungry-high-wellness/index.html
9. “Why does weed give you the munchies?” Leafly, October 4, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/health/why-does-weed-give-you-munchies
10. “The endocannabinoid system control food intake via olfactory processes,” Nature Neuroscience, March 2014, https://www.nature.com/articles/nn.3647.epdf
11. “Does CBD Increase Your Appetite?” Healthline, February 9, 2024, https://www.healthline.com/health/does-cbd-increase-your-appetite
12. “Cannabidiol (CBD) Use in Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Report,” National Library of Medicine, December 23, 2021, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8178711/
13. “Cannabinoids to Fight Chemotherapy-Induced Adverse Effects,” SpringerNature Link, March 24, 2023, https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007/978-3-030-80962-1_350-2
14. “Marijuana and Aids,” National Library of Medicine, 2001, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK224400/
15. “Dronabinol,” National Library of Medicine, September 4, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557531/
16. “Why Smoking Weed Gives You The Munchies,” Refinery29, April 19, 2019, https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2019/04/230376/munchies-smoking-weed-meaning
17. “Effects of oral, smoked, and vaporized cannabis on endocrine pathways related to appetite and metabolism: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, human laboratory study,” Translational Psychiatry, February 19, 2020, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-020-0756-3
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations. This content is not intended as medical advice. The information provided is meant to encourage cannabis education, not replace direct patient-healthcare professional relationships. Always consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider prior to using cannabis products for treatment of a medical condition. Any statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products are only available where consumption of cannabis is legal.
Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast or a newbie, you’ve likely heard of CBD—a popular non-psychoactive cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits. But what about CBG? As it gains more attention, it’s important to understand the differences between CBG vs CBD when choosing your cannabis products. In this guide, we’ll explore their unique characteristics and benefits, and how to decide which is right for you.
Introduction to Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the compounds in the cannabis plant that interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. While THC is the most well-known for its psychoactive nature, non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD and CBG also play vital roles. Though they won’t intoxicate you, both may offer therapeutic benefits.1
What Is CBG, the Mother of Cannabinoids?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is often called “the mother cannabinoid” because it acts as a precursor to others like THC and CBD. Without CBG, many other cannabinoids wouldn’t exist.2
However, it’s less abundant in mature cannabis plants since most CBG is converted into other cannabinoids as the plant grows, making it harder to extract in large quantities. For example, CBG turns into CBDA (cannabidiol acid) and then into CBD, the active form.3 Chemically, CBG interacts directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system. This is what gives CBG its distinct therapeutic potential.4
What Is CBD, the Popular Cannabinoid?
CBD (cannabidiol) has been studied extensively and is now a key player in wellness and medical circles. Found abundantly in both hemp and cannabis, CBD’s non-psychoactive nature makes it a popular choice for those seeking potential benefits without the high associated with THC.5 While CBD and THC share the same molecular structure, CBD has a hydroxyl group instead of a cyclic ring, preventing it from binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the same way, which keeps it non-intoxicating.6
Research into CBD began in the 20th century, and its popularity increased because of its potential to relieve anxiety and reduce seizures. Today, CBD is widely available in oils, capsules, edibles, and skin care products, thanks to its well-established market and legal status, making it much more accessible than CBG.7
Key Differences Between CBG and CBD
While CBD vs CBG share some similarities, they differ in their chemical structure and how they interact with the body.
Chemical Structure
One of the biggest differences between CBG and CBD is their molecular structure. CBG binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, while CBD has a more indirect effect on the endocannabinoid system.8
Effects on the Endocannabinoid System
CBG interacts directly with cannabinoid receptors, potentially addressing conditions related to the nervous system, such as depression and anxiety. CBD, meanwhile, is praised for modulating the body’s response to stress and inflammation without binding directly to these receptors.10
Potential Therapeutic Benefits
CBD and CBG sound the same, but they have very different (potential) therapeutic benefits.
Potential Benefits of CBG
CBG has shown promise in addressing a range of health issues, including:
- Nervous system support: CBG may help relieve anxiety and depression.11
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Research suggests that CBG may reduce inflammation.12
- Cancer treatment potential: Early studies have explored the cannabinoid’s role in decreasing cancer cell growth.13
- Antibacterial properties: CBG may be effective against bacterial infections.14
Known Benefits of CBD
CBD is widely recognized and has a well-documented track record, offering potential benefits that may include:
- Anxiety and stress relief: CBD is widely used to help manage stress and anxiety.
- Pain management: The cannabinoid is popular for addressing chronic pain.
- Epilepsy treatment: CBD is a well-known treatment for seizure disorders.
- Inflammation reduction: Like CBG, CBD is also praised for its anti-inflammatory effects.15
Consumption Methods
CBD and CBG can be consumed in various ways. CBG is often found in oils, isolates, or full-spectrum products that combine multiple cannabinoids for a more holistic effect.16 CBD is available in isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum oils, edibles, topicals, and more.17 Proper dosing is important for both cannabinoids to ensure you use them safely and effectively. If you are unsure about the dosing, consult with your favorite budtender.
Combining CBG and CBD
There’s a growing interest in the potential synergistic effects of CBG and CBD when they are used together. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products, which may contain both cannabinoids and others, can benefit you because they activate the entourage effect—the idea that cannabinoids work better together than on their own.18 When considering CBD vs CBG products, look for full-spectrum options that include a range of cannabinoids for a more comprehensive experience.
FAQs About CBG
Curious about CBG and CBD and how one cannabinoid stacks up against the other? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you better understand CBG and CBD. Or ask your budtender the next time you visit a LivWell dispensary.
What’s the main difference between CBG and CBD?
The main difference between CBG and CBD is that CBG interacts more directly with the cannabinoid receptors in your body, while CBD has a more indirect effect.
Can I take CBG and CBD together?
You can consume CBG and CBD separately or together. When combined, they trigger the entourage effect, meaning you experience enhanced effects compared to using an individual cannabinoid.
Which is better for sleep: CBG or CBD?
CBD and CBG may help you sleep better, but these two cannabinoids work in different ways. CBG is potentially more suited for addressing some underlying issues, like anxiety or pain, that are keeping you awake, while CBD helps promote relaxation and sleep.
How do I choose between CBG and CBD products for my needs?
It depends on your needs. It’s best to ask a budtender at your favorite dispensary for personalized recommendations and then decide whether CBD, CBG, or full-spectrum products are the best for you.
Are CBG and CBD psychoactive like THC?
CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids, so they don’t cause intoxicating effects.
Choosing Between CBG and CBD
While CBD has long been a popular choice, CBG is quickly becoming a promising option for those seeking additional benefits. Both cannabinoids have their strengths, from CBD’s well-documented effects on anxiety and pain relief to CBG’s potential in neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory treatments. As more research continues to shed light on these cannabinoids, experimenting with different cannabis products could help you experience the best of both worlds. Be sure to ask your budtender for advice when you shop cannabis products and choose between CBG and CBD.
Sources:
1. “Is CBG the Next CBD? Here’s What You Should Know,” Real Simple, December 30, 2022, https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/popular-ingredients/cbd-versus-cbg
2. “What Is CBG (Cannabigerol)? Benefits, Uses, Dosages,” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-cbg-cannabigerol-medicinal-benefits-use
3. “Pharmacological Aspects and Biological Effects of Cannabigerol and Its Synthetic Derivatives,” National Library of Medicine, November 8, 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9666035/
4. “Cannabigerol: a biometric overview and review of research on an important phytocannabinoid,” Springer Link, January 24, 2022, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-021-09794-w
5. “What are the benefits of CBD - and is it safe to use?” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
6. “Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Action of Cannabidiol,” National Library of Medicine, August 9, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10458707/
7. “ Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t,” Harvard Health Publishing, April 4, 2024, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
8. “Cannabinoids in the landscape of cancer,” ResearchGate, September 2021, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353259624_Cannabinoids_in_the_landscape_of_cancer
9. “Cannabigerol Action at Cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 Receptors and at CB1–CB2 Heteroreceptor Complexes,” National Library of Medicine, June 21, 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6021502/
10. “What is the endocannabinoid system and how does cannabis affect it?” GoodRx, October 24, 2023, https://www.goodrx.com/classes/cannabinoids/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system
11. “Is CBG the Next CBD?” Psychology Today, August 1, 2024, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/balanced/202408/is-cbg-the-next-cbd
12. “Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Cannabigerol in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Cultures Are Partly Mediated by TRPA1,” MDPI, January 3, 2023, https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/1/855
13. “Cannabigerol Is a Potential Therapeutic Agent in a Novel Combined Therapy for Glioblastoma,” National Library of Medicine, February 5, 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7914500/#:~:text=CBG%20was%20reported%20to%20reduce,reviewed%20by%20Ligresti%20et%20al
14. “Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study,” National Library of Medicine, August 6, 2008, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18681481/
15. “Therapeutic benefits of CBD,” MedicalNewsToday, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cgb-vs-cbd#cbd-benefits
16. “What is CBG (cannabigerol) & what does this cannabinoid do?” Leafly, September 14, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-cbg-cannabinoid
17. “Meet CBG, the New Cannabinoid on the Block,” Healthline, February 28, 2020, https://www.healthline.com/health/cbg-oil#choosing-a-product
18. “Could the Combination of Two Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoids Counteract Neuroinflammation? Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Associated with Cannabigerol,” National Library of Medicine, November 18, 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6915685/
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations. This content is not intended as medical advice. The information provided is meant to encourage cannabis education, not replace direct patient-healthcare professional relationships. Always consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider prior to using cannabis products for treatment of a medical condition. Any statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products are only available where consumption of cannabis is legal.
Cannabis concentrates are very popular for their potency, flavor, and versatility, and live resin and distillate are among the most common types of concentrates. But which one should you choose? It’s important to understand their unique characteristics and how they’re made when choosing the right product for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between live resin vs distillate, from their extraction methods to how they impact your cannabis experience.
What Is Live Resin?
Live resin is a cannabis concentrate known for preserving the plant’s full range of cannabinoids and terpenes. This concentrate is made by using cannabis that is freshly-frozen immediately after harvest, which helps the concentrate keep all the plant’s natural flavors and aromas. With a complex terpene profile, you get a more authentic and flavorful cannabis experience compared to traditional methods.1
What Is Distillate?
Distillate is a purified cannabis concentrate that isolates specific cannabinoids, typically THC or CBD. Since the distillation process removes terpenes and other compounds, the result is almost flavorless and odorless. Its purity and versatility make it ideal for use in vape cartridges, edibles, and other cannabis products, allowing for precise dosing without affecting the flavor.2
Key Differences Between Live Resin and Distillate
Distillate and live resin are sought-after cannabis concentrates, but they are different. Here’s how:
Extraction Process
The primary difference between live resin and distillate is in their extraction methods:
- Live resin is made using solvent-based extraction to preserve the natural terpene, flavonoid, and cannabinoid profile of the cannabis plant.
- Distillate is made using a multistep refinement process to keep the desired cannabinoids while removing all others. This process involves heating the cannabis material to separate the cannabinoids, resulting in a high-purity product.3
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles
Live resin is a full-spectrum extract, preserving all the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, which boosts the entourage effect—a synergy of compounds that enhances the effects you may potentially feel. Distillate, by contrast, isolates specific cannabinoids like THC or CBD, creating a highly potent but simpler product that lacks the nuanced effects of live resin's full-spectrum profile.4
Flavor and Aroma
Live resin retains terpenes and flavonoids, delivering a rich flavor that mirrors the plant’s natural essence. This makes it ideal for those seeking an authentic taste. THC distillate, by contrast, is nearly flavorless, offering a neutral experience even when terpenes are reintroduced.5
Potency and Effects
Distillate is highly potent, often exceeding 90% THC or CBD purity, allowing for precise dosing.6 In contrast, live resin offers a more balanced, full-spectrum experience, combining cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance the entourage effect.7 While live resin may have lower THC content, its effects are often more nuanced than those of distillate.
Cost Comparison
Live resin is pricier due to its complex extraction process involving fresh-frozen cannabis. Distillate, by contrast, costs less to produce as it isolates cannabinoids, making it more versatile and cost-effective.
Product Versatility
Live resin is typically consumed via dabbing or vaporizing to preserve its terpene-rich profile. It’s less commonly used in edibles or tinctures because its potent flavor may overpower the dish. However, distillate is highly versatile and can be found in various products, including edibles, tinctures, and vape cartridges. Because it lacks flavor and aroma, you can easily add distillate to desserts, savory foods, and beverages without altering the taste.8
Storage and Shelf Life
Carefully store your live resin in a cool, dark place to preserve its delicate terpenes and prevent degradation. Distillate is more stable with a longer shelf life, as its purity and lack of plant compounds make it less prone to deterioration. You can store distillate for extended periods without worrying about it losing potency.
Distillate vs Live Resin Carts & Edibles: Popular Consumption Methods
Both live resin and distillate carts are popular, but there are other ways that they’re used:
Live Resin vs. Distillate Edibles
Distillate is more commonly used in edibles because its lack of flavor makes it easier to incorporate into a wide range of products. Live resin, with its strong terpene profile, can be overpowering in edibles but is still used in some high-end products for a more natural cannabis experience.
Distillate vs. Live Resin Cartridges
When it comes to vape cartridges, both distillate and live resin carts are popular. Live resin cartridges offer a more flavorful experience thanks to the preserved terpenes, while distillate cartridges provide a more neutral option with higher THC content.
Distillate vs. Live Resin Infusions
Distillate can be used to infuse a variety of products, from edibles to flower. Live resin is often used in dabs but can also be added to joints or blunts for an enhanced experience.
Answering FAQs About Live Resin vs. Distillate
It can be overwhelming to choose between live resin and distillate. While you can ask your favorite budtender for help, why wait? Here are the most frequently asked questions about these two popular cannabis concentrates:
Which is more potent, live resin or distillate?
Distillate typically has a higher THC percentage, but live resin offers the entourage effect, which can enhance the overall experience.
Why does live resin often cost more than distillate?
Live resin is more expensive because of the complexity of its extraction process and the use of the whole cannabis plant.
Can live resin and distillate be used in the same ways?
Distillate vs live resin can be used in vapes, edibles, and infusions. Live resin is better for dabbing, while distillate is more versatile.
How is the entourage effect different between live resin and distillate?
Live resin preserves all cannabinoids and terpenes, and this maximizes the entourage effect. THC distillate isolates individual cannabinoids and offers a more limited experience.
Live Resin vs Distillate: Which is Right for You?
So, is live resin better than distillate? Ultimately, your preferences will dictate whether live resin or distillate is best. Live resin might be the better option if you’re after a full-spectrum experience with rich flavor and enhanced effects. If potency and versatility are your priority, distillate’s high purity and flexibility make it an excellent choice for many uses. And remember to consult with your local budtender for personalized recommendations.
Sources:
1. “What Is Live Resin? Benefits, How to Use It, and More,” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-live-resin
2. “THC distillate 101: What is it and how do you consume it?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/distillate
3. “THC distillate: What Is It and How to Dose It” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/thc-distillate
4. “Distillate,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/distillate
5. “What is live resin?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/live-resin
6. “THC Distillate: What Is It and How to Use It,” Veriheal, May 14, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/what-is-thc-distillate/
7. “Mechanisms of Action and Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis,” National Library of Medicine, November 30, 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8803256/
8. “What’s the Difference Between Live Resin and Distillate?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/live-resin-vs-distillate
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
