Concentrates
Introduction to Cannabis Concentrates: A Budtender's Guide
Cannabis concentrates are the essence of the plant in a more potent, concentrated form, offering a higher cannabinoid and terpene content than traditional flower. What makes them special? Their intensity—concentrates pack significantly more THC, CBD, and terpenes into a smaller amount of product. For customers who regularly seek high-THC flower or greater relief, introducing them to concentrates can be a natural step.
As a budtender, you don’t need to know every detail about concentrates, but having a strong foundation will help you confidently guide customers in making informed decisions. Concentrates require a balance of understanding potency, consumption methods, and safety.
Potency vs. Traditional Flower
Concentrates can range between 60-90% THC or higher, far surpassing the average flower, which usually contains between 15-25% THC. This makes them ideal for experienced consumers looking for a stronger effect or those requiring more potent relief from conditions like chronic pain.
Price Point
Concentrates can range between $15-$60/g, depending on the type of extraction process, starting material, or marketing. This offers a wide range of price points for both new and experienced consumers; just remember some accessories may be required.
How to Introduce Customers to Concentrates
Start by identifying the customer’s needs:
High-THC Flower Enthusiasts: These customers are used to potency, so concentrates like wax, live resin, or shatter could be introduced as the next step in their cannabis experience.
Relief Seekers: Customers looking for pain relief, anxiety reduction, or better sleep may benefit from concentrates due to their immediate and more intense effects. Rosin or distillate might be an appealing option because of their purity and solventless extraction methods.
Why Budtender Knowledge is Key
Informed Decisions: Your role is to help customers navigate the concentrate market, providing insights on different types of extracts, from waxes to solventless options like rosin.
Safe Consumption: Educating customers about proper consumption methods—like low-temperature dabbing for live resin or vaporizing for rosin—ensures they have a safer, more enjoyable experience. The key is emphasizing starting with small doses due to potency.
Legal Regulations: Understand the local regulations, such as New Mexico's 8-gram limit per visit for recreational customers, so you can guide purchasing limits and compliance.
Ultimately, by having a foundational knowledge of concentrates, you’ll not only boost your confidence as a budtender but also enhance the customer experience. You don’t need to be a cannabis scientist, but understanding the basics goes a long way in helping customers make the best decisions for their needs.