Consumption & Product Guides

Cannabis concentrates represent the most potent form of cannabis consumption, offering high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes in small, flavorful doses. Whether you’re new to concentrates or simply curious about how they differ from flower, this guide will help you understand what they are, how they’re made, and how to choose the right type for your experience.

What Are Cannabis Concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates are products that have been processed to isolate and preserve the most desirable plant compounds—primarily cannabinoids like THC and CBD, and aromatic terpenes—while removing excess plant material. This results in a product that’s far more potent than traditional flower.

Common forms include wax, shatter, rosin, oil, live resin, and hash. Each concentrate type differs in texture, flavor, and potency depending on the extraction method used.

How Concentrates Are Made

Extraction techniques determine both the quality and type of concentrate. Two major categories exist: solvent-based and solventless.

• Solvent-based extraction uses agents like butane, propane, or CO₂ to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant matter. The result is products such as shatter, budder, or live resin.
• Solventless extraction relies on mechanical methods such as pressure, heat, or filtration to produce items like rosin or dry-sift hash. These are often preferred by consumers seeking cleaner, chemical-free products.

How to Consume Concentrates

Concentrates can be consumed in several ways:

• Dabbing: Heating the concentrate on a hot surface and inhaling through a dab rig.
• Vaping: Using a vape pen or cartridge designed for concentrate oils.
• Topping Flower: Adding a small amount of concentrate to traditional flower for enhanced potency.

Because concentrates are highly potent, it’s best to start with small doses and gradually increase as you find your comfort level.

Finding the Right Concentrate for You

When choosing a concentrate, consider your preferred flavor profile, desired effects, and tolerance level. A live resin might appeal to those who value strong flavor and aroma, while distillates or shatter might be best for potency and precision dosing.

Explore Monteverde’s Collection

Monteverde offers a curated selection of premium cannabis concentrates crafted for purity, potency, and flavor. Visit us in-store or explore our menu online to discover your next favorite concentrate.

Disclaimer: Cannabis products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Effects may vary by individual. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before starting any new wellness routine.

Smoking Cannabis

The most traditional method, smoking involves burning cannabis flower and inhaling the smoke. It offers fast onset (minutes) and is easy to dose gradually, but it carries respiratory risks.

• Pros: Fast effects, easy to control.
• Cons: Smoke inhalation, shorter duration.

Vaping Cannabis

Vaping heats cannabis flower or oil without combustion, delivering smoother inhalation. Many see it as a cleaner alternative to smoking.

• Pros: Discreet, less odor, reduced toxins compared to smoking.
• Cons: Device cost, variable product quality.

Edibles

Cannabis-infused foods and drinks provide a delayed onset (30–120 minutes) but much longer-lasting effects (4–8 hours). Great for stress relief and sleep support.

• Pros: Long duration, discreet.
• Cons: Easy to overconsume, slow onset can catch beginners off guard.

Tinctures & Oils

Drops placed under the tongue or mixed with food offer flexible dosing and relatively fast absorption.

• Pros: Precise dosing, no smoking required.
• Cons: Taste may be bitter, effects vary by metabolism.

Topicals

Lotions, balms, and transdermal patches infused with cannabis target localized pain or inflammation without producing a “high.”

• Pros: Non-intoxicating, easy to use.
• Cons: Effects are limited to surface-level relief.

Choosing the Right Method

The best consumption method depends on your goals:

• For fast relief: Smoking or vaping.
• For long-lasting effects: Edibles or tinctures.
• For localized pain: Topicals.

Always consider your lifestyle, health factors, and tolerance when choosing a method.

FAQs

Is vaping safer than smoking cannabis?
Vaping avoids combustion, but long-term effects are still being studied. It’s generally seen as lower risk than smoking.

What’s the healthiest way to consume cannabis?
Non-inhalation methods like tinctures, edibles, and topicals are considered healthier alternatives to smoking.

How do I know which method is right for me?
Start by clarifying your goals — quick relief, long duration, or localized support — and choose accordingly.

Closing

Cannabis offers a wide range of consumption methods, each with unique benefits. Whether you prefer the fast-acting nature of inhalation or the long-lasting calm of edibles, Monteverde can guide you to the products that fit your lifestyle.

Visit Monteverde to explore smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, and more — all tailored to your needs.

Disclaimer: Cannabis products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Effects may vary by individual. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before starting any new wellness routine.

What Is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant with compounds called cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. These interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to affect mood, sleep, appetite, and more. Today, cannabis is legally available in New Jersey for adults 21+ and medical patients.

Key Terms to Know

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive compound, responsible for the “high.”
• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating compound known for stress and pain relief.
• Indica vs. Sativa vs. Hybrid: Indicas are calming, sativas are energizing, hybrids are a mix.
• Terpenes: Natural plant compounds that influence flavor, aroma, and effects.

Different Ways to Use Cannabis

• Smoking: Fast effects, but short duration and harsh on lungs.
• Vaping: Discreet and smooth, with faster onset.
• Edibles: Long-lasting, but take 30–120 minutes to kick in.
• Tinctures: Dropped under the tongue for flexible dosing.
• Topicals: Creams and balms for localized relief without intoxication.

Tips for First-Time Users

• Start small: 2–5mg THC or a few puffs is enough to gauge your response.
• Be patient: Especially with edibles — wait at least 2 hours before taking more.
• Choose the right setting: Calm, comfortable spaces help create a positive experience.
• Ask for guidance: Budtenders are there to help answer questions and recommend products.

FAQs

How much should a beginner smoke or consume?
Start with a very small amount — beginners often feel effects more strongly.

What’s the difference between THC and CBD?
THC intoxicates; CBD calms without a “high.” Both may be combined for balanced effects.

Can cannabis be dangerous for beginners?
Overconsumption can cause discomfort (like anxiety or grogginess), but it isn’t fatal. Responsible use is key.

Closing

Starting your cannabis journey should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With a little knowledge and guidance, beginners can explore cannabis safely and confidently.

Visit Monteverde to start your cannabis journey — our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Disclaimer: Cannabis products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Effects may vary by individual. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before starting any new wellness routine.

Why Edibles Work Differently

Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles pass through the digestive system before cannabinoids enter the bloodstream. This process takes longer but produces effects that last much longer. For many, edibles provide a steady, relaxing experience ideal for stress relief, sleep, or social settings.

How Long Do Edibles Last?

• Onset time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (sometimes longer depending on metabolism).
• Duration: 4 to 8 hours, with peak effects in the first 2–4 hours.
• Variables: body weight, food intake, tolerance, and the edible’s THC/CBD balance.

Dosage Tips for Beginners

• Start low, go slow: Begin with 2–5 mg THC.
• Wait it out: Resist the temptation to “stack” doses too quickly.
• Track effects: Note what works for you and adjust carefully.
• Consider CBD: Blending CBD with THC can balance intensity and reduce anxiety.

Safety Considerations

• Keep edibles clearly labeled and stored securely, especially away from children and pets.
• Avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances.
• Plan ahead — consuming too much can be uncomfortable, so clear your schedule if trying edibles for the first time.

Best Edibles for Beginners

• Gummies: Easy to dose and discreet.
• Low-dose chocolates: Smooth onset with consistent THC levels.
• Tincture-style edibles: Allow for flexible dosing by drops or small sips.

FAQs

How long does it take for edibles to kick in?
Usually between 30 minutes and 2 hours. Patience is key.

How much should a beginner take?
2–5 mg THC is a safe starting point for most adults.

Are edibles stronger than smoking?
They can feel stronger and last longer, because the liver converts THC into a more potent form (11-hydroxy-THC).

Closing

Edibles can be a fun, effective, and long-lasting way to enjoy cannabis — if you approach them with patience and knowledge. At Monteverde, we offer a carefully curated selection of edibles to match every lifestyle, from beginner-friendly gummies to advanced options.

Shop Monteverde and explore our selection of cannabis edibles — crafted for safe, enjoyable experiences.

Disclaimer: Cannabis products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Effects may vary by individual. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before starting any new wellness routine.