Inside the Lab: The Scientific Breakdown of Cannabis Dabs and Their Effects 

One of the greatest things to love about cannabis is that it’s available in multiple preparations. The specific formulations you choose depend on your preferred delivery method and desired effects.  

Dabs are among the most popular cannabis preparations out there. They’re beloved by medical and recreational marijuana users alike, due to their incredibly high potency.  

This article shall serve as a definitive guide to cannabis dabs. Read below to uncover what these products are, how to consume them, and their potential effects. 

Introducing Dabs 

If you’re new to cannabis dabs, the one question that’s probably lingering on your mind is – what are dabs?  

Dabs are concentrated forms of cannabis, which are available in different shapes and textures. They’re among the most potent marijuana extracts. 

How Are Dabs Manufactured? 

The process of manufacturing dabs is nearly similar to that of preparing other common cannabis-based products.  

All dabs undergo a specialized extraction process designed to separate trichomes from the marijuana plant material.  

Trichomes are the hairy appendages that coat various parts of the cannabis plant. They’re particularly abundant in the buds and flowers.  

The process involved in extracting dabs may result in many cannabinoids. However, the end product is usually significantly higher in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than other common cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD).  

Tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid in marijuana best known for its psychedelic abilities. It’s the primary compound in weed responsible for the plant’s mind-altering effects. But as with many other cannabinoids, THC also boasts numerous healing benefits. 

How Are Dabs Consumed? 

Dabs are consumed via a process known as dabbing. Dabbing is a form of vaping that utilizes special electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) known as electronic rigs (e-rigs), dab rigs, or dab pens.  

Dab rigs resemble traditional bongs in that both devices feature a glass pipe designed with a water chamber. The difference is that e-rigs utilize a nail for dabs while bongs use a bowl for flower. The dabbing process entails inhaling vapor produced from the e-rig’s combustion chamber.  

To dab, start by placing the cannabis extracts (dabs) on the nail. Now, heat the nail with a torch and let it cool to your desired temperature. Finally, drop in a dab and enjoy the produced vapor.  

Health Benefits of Dabs 

The benefits of dabs tie back to the primary ingredient in these products – tetrahydrocannabinol.  

Tetrahydrocannabinol is a powerful analgesic compound scientifically proven to be effective against both nociceptive and neuropathic pain. THC can relieve pain by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals across the body.  

Dabs may also treat stress and anxiety. The THC in dabs soothes anxiety by boosting the brain’s signaling of ‘feel-good’ chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine. One study investigating THC’s anxiolytic properties found that the compound could ease various post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-related symptoms like flashbacks and nightmares.  

Stress and anxiety are leading causes of insomnia. The fact that dabs might alleviate anxiety makes them a potential remedy for sleep deprivation too. In fact, trials conducted in the 1970s found that consuming oral doses of cannabinoids improved sleep quality by reducing sleep latency.  

Inflammation is yet another common medical ailment that you can address effectively using cannabis dabs. The active ingredient in dabs, tetrahydrocannabinol, soothes inflammation by reducing the production of cytokines and chemokines, the body’s key inflammatory messengers.  

There’s a long list of other medical issues you can manage using cannabis dabs, including nausea, erectile dysfunction (ED), and fatigue. 

Other Benefits of Dabs 

Besides the above health benefits, cannabis dabs provide many additional perks over other common cannabis preparations.  

As previously hinted, dabs are remarkably high in tetrahydrocannabinol. These formulations can be up to 60 – 90% high in THC compared to 15 – 25% for other weed products.  

The increased potency of cannabinoids makes dabs a favorite for marijuana users looking for fast-acting effects. It also opens up room for microdosing, which refers to utilizing small amounts of cannabis extracts to achieve maximum effects.  

Dabs also stand out for their richer flavor. That’s due to their higher concentration of terpenes, aromatic cannabis compounds responsible for the plant’s distinctive taste.  

Lastly, dabs provide a healthier way to consume cannabis than smoking. That’s because the process typically produces vapor as opposed to smoke. 

Will Dabs Get Me High? 

Cannabis dabs contain decent amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol, weed’s principal psychedelic chemical. Therefore, these products will certainly get you high.  

Dabs’ euphoric nature explains why they’re a favorite for both medical and recreational cannabis users. However, it’s important to consume these products moderately to avoid becoming intoxicated.  

The general rule is to begin with as little as 5 milligrams per day if you’re a new cannabis user. Watch out for any adverse effects over a 48-hour period before possibly upping your doses. 

Are All Dabs Equal? 

Dabs come in different shapes and textures. The most popular types include; 

• Shatter – An amber-colored dab that resembles glass. 
• Budder/Batter/Badder – A thick but slightly drippy dab that’s typically golden in color. 
• Oil – Liquid-based dab similar to the kind used for e-juices. 
• Wax – Soft and malleable dab that looks like wax. 
• Sugar – Waxy dab with the consistency of wet sugar. 

Summary 

Dabs are some of the most potent cannabis formulations, which means a little dosage can go a long way. Therefore, the best way to enjoy these products is to consume them in moderation.  

Remember to also consult your healthcare provider before integrating dabs or other cannabis-based products into your wellness routine.