What is Marijuana Dabbing?
Heard the word "dabbing" and thought of that viral dance move from 2015? In the cannabis world, it means something entirely different! Marijuana dabbing is the process of consuming highly concentrated cannabis extracts (often called "dabs") by dropping them onto a heated surface and inhaling the vapor. Unlike smoking traditional flower, dabbing doesn't involve burning plant material. Instead, it flash-vaporizes extracted oils, delivering a smooth, potent, and incredibly flavorful experience.
The Anatomy of a Dab
Dabs come in many fun textures and names, usually based on how they look. You might hear them called:
These THC concentrates pack a massive punch. While regular cannabis flower sits around 15-25% THC, concentrates can easily hit 70-90% THC. Because of this purity, dabbing strips away the smoky plant matter and leaves you with pure cannabinoids and delicious, aromatic terpenes.
How Does It Work?
To take a dab, you don't use a regular lighter and pipe. You use a specialized water pipe called a dab rig.
Here’s the basic breakdown:
1. Heat the "Nail": Using a mini butane torch, you heat the rig’s "nail" (a small bucket usually made of quartz or titanium) until it’s hot.
2. Let it Cool: You wait a few seconds so it isn't scorching hot, low-temperature dabs taste the best!
3. Drop the Dab: You use a metal tool to scoop up a tiny bit of concentrate and place it into the warm nail.
4. Inhale: It instantly turns to vapor. You inhale through the mouthpiece, and voila, you’re dabbing!
Because it is so incredibly concentrated, a tiny speck (the size of a crumb) is usually more than enough for a beginner. Always remember the golden rule of dabbing: start small!