Dabbing, aptly named for the small concentrated amounts of cannabis used, is a popular way to consume medical marijuana. But if you’re a beginner or have never dabbed before, it may feel intimidating to start.
Don’t worry; you’re in good hands. Here’s our beginner’s guide to dabbing, to give you the confidence to try it out for yourself.
What is dabbing?
Dabbing works similarly to smoking from a bong: a cannabis concentrate is heated on any number of different surfaces and the vapors are inhaled.
Not only are there different devices for dabbing with, there are also several varieties of the dab (or marijuana concentrate) itself.
What are dabs?
Again, dabs are forms of concentrated cannabis that can come in a number of different options. The most common forms include:
- BHO (Butane Hash Oil)
- Oil
- Shatter
- Wax
Portioning your dab
Since dabbing involves using concentrates, it’s important to keep portion sizing in mind. If you’re used to smoking or consuming buds, go slow with your concentrates. You’ll only need a small crumb-sized portion to start, especially if you’re new to dabbing.
How to dab
Like we mentioned, there are a number of ways to dab. Here are the most popular ways to dab:
- Dab rig: a pipe system specifically made for concentrates and the most popular way to dab.
You’ll need a pipe (or oil rig), nail, dabber tool (such as a wand or carb cap), and a torch. Dab a very small amount of your cannabis concentrate with the dabber, then heat your nail with the torch. Turn off the torch and inhale through your dab rig mouthpiece. - Electric nail: same as the dab rig (above), but the nail is electrically heated, so no torch is needed.
- Honey straw: an easy and effective way to dab.
Use the honey straw by heating the small tip of your straw with a lighter, placing that end into your dab container, and gently inhaling at the other end of the straw. - T-waxing: mix your concentrate using a dabbing tool with dry bud in a traditional joint.
As with all cannabis concentrates, start low and go slow. Concentrates are obviously significantly stronger than flowers, so dose in small amounts when you first start out.
At Hive Medicinal, we’d love to help with your medical marijuana needs as your local Maine dispensary. Take a look at our current products or, better yet, stop by in person!
