Hemp extracts have gained popularity recently, with many users preferring them over traditional marijuana consumption. Two of the most popular cannabis extracts are live resin and distillate. While both are derived from the hemp plant, their composition, production method, and effects differ. This article will explore the critical difference between live resin and distillate.
What is Live Resin?
It is a type of cannabis extract that is made from fresh, frozen hemp plants. The term “live” refers to the fact that the plant is still alive and fresh when processed, which helps preserve the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in hemp that give it its distinctive flavor and aroma, while cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that produce the plant’s euphoric and medicinal effects.
The fresh hemp plant is frozen immediately after being harvested to make live resin. It is then processed using a solvent, like butane or propane, to extract the terpenes and cannabinoids from the plant material. The resulting extract is then purged of any remaining solvents to create a highly concentrated form of hemp.
What is Distillate?
On the other hand, this is a kind of cannabis extract made by distilling hemp oil. The oil is first extracted from the plant using a solvent, such as CO2 or ethanol. The resulting oil is then purified using distillation, which involves heating it to vaporize and separate its components. The resulting product is a highly concentrated form of THC, the primary euphoric compound in cannabis.
Composition Differences
The composition of live resin and distillate differs significantly. The first one contains a full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids, which means it contains all the compounds in the fresh hemp plant. This gives it a more complex flavor and aroma and a broader range of therapeutic effects. Because it is made from fresh plants, the item has higher moisture content and may be more prone to spoilage.
Distillate, on the other hand, is highly refined and purified and typically contains only THC. Because it is stripped of all other compounds, it has a neutral flavor and aroma and does not provide the full range of therapeutic effects that live resin does. However, it is highly potent and is often used for its intense euphoric effects.
Production Method Differences
The production methods for both the products also differ significantly. Live resin requires fresh, high-quality hemp plants, frozen immediately after harvest, to preserve their terpenes and cannabinoids. Extracting it can be more challenging and time-consuming than other extraction methods, requiring specialized equipment and expertise.
Distillate, on the other hand, can be made from various hemp plants and produced using various solvents and extraction methods. It is a more straightforward and less labor-intensive process than making live resin, which makes it a more cost-effective option.
Conclusion:
The key difference between live resin and distillate are their composition, production methods, and effects. Choosing between live resin and distillate will depend on the individual’s preferences and intended use, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes. Understanding the differences between the two will allow consumers to decide which marijuana extract is right for them.