Marijuana dabs are highly concentrated forms of cannabis that have become increasingly popular. At San Antonio Recovery Center, we offer a dedicated marijuana addiction rehab program in San Antonio, TX, to support individuals struggling with marijuana abuse, often involving these potent dabs.
When users consume marijuana dabs, they are essentially taking a large dose of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. This high concentration can lead to several negative consequences, particularly for individuals already battling substance use disorders.
Let’s explore in detail what marijuana dabs are made of and the addiction treatment programs in San Antonio that can provide assistance.
What Are Marijuana Dabs Made Of?
A dab starts with a concentrated and exceptionally sticky resin derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant. This resin is collected from the trichomes found on the flowers and leaves during the harvesting process. Trichomes are crystalline structures and fine hairs that contain the highest concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol, more commonly known as THC.
Alt text: Close-up microscopic view of marijuana trichomes, showcasing their crystalline structure and density.
THC is the main cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, including dabs. It induces the “high” that users seek, which, with excessive use, can become addictive. This addictive potential is comparable to substances like sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and even heroin. Besides THC, dabs may also contain:
- Terpenes: Organic compounds commonly found in plants, contributing to the aroma and flavor of cannabis.
- Flavonoids: Phytonutrients present in fruits and vegetables, offering antioxidant properties.
- Pesticides: These can be toxic or organic and naturally derived.
- Fertilizers: Similar to pesticides, these can range from toxic to organic.
Additionally, some oils are produced using chemical contaminants and residual solvents, which can pose serious health risks. Dab concentrates can also be flavored using substances like vegetable oil, which may lead to adverse health effects when inhaled.
While research on dabbing is still in its early stages due to its recent emergence, several deaths have been linked to vaping, which involves inhaling an oil-based concentrated substance, similar to dabbing.
How Are Dabs Made?
The process of making dabs involves extracting trichomes from the Cannabis sativa plant through harvesting. Solvents are then used to separate the trichomes and other materials from the plant. This extraction can be achieved using:
- Butane gas
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Ethyl alcohol
This extraction results in various substances commonly used in marijuana dabs, including:
- Budder
- Butane hash oil (BHO)
- Oil distillate
- Honey
- Shatter
- Wax
Alt text: Display of different types of marijuana concentrates including budder, shatter, and wax, illustrating their varied textures and appearances.
The resulting substance is then heated to extreme temperatures using a butane torch-style lighter or specialized equipment called a dab rig. The concentration of THC in these cannabis extracts typically ranges from 60% to 95%, significantly higher than that found in flower cannabis, which usually tests between 10% and 30%.
While it’s not possible to fatally overdose on THC or dabs, consuming too much at once is possible. Moreover, users can develop a tolerance to THC, necessitating higher doses to achieve the desired effects. For individuals struggling with marijuana abuse, a substance abuse treatment center in San Antonio can offer valuable support.
Side Effects of Smoking Dabs
The side effects associated with smoking “dabs” can differ significantly from the traditional effects of smoking marijuana. Dabs are produced by extracting THC, the active compound in cannabis, and heating it to a temperature that vaporizes it without burning, unlike traditional dried cannabis flower. The resulting vapor is inhaled through a glass pipe, leading to faster and different effects compared to smoking traditional marijuana flowers.
The side effects of smoking dabs include:
- Dry mouth
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Enlarged pupils
- Bloodshot eyes
These symptoms may be more intense than those experienced from smoking flower cannabis because dabbing lacks plant material like terpenes, which contribute to the smell and taste of cannabis.
More seriously, long-term dab use can lead to mental health issues due to its addictive nature. The potent THC in dabs has a stronger impact on cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which regulate perception of time, memory, pleasure, and coordination.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment in San Antonio, TX
If you’re seeking more information about what dabs are and the potential risks, we’re here to assist you. We recognize the control that addiction can exert over your life. San Antonio Recovery Center provides specialized addiction therapy programs for marijuana addiction, including dab addiction, as well as addiction to alcohol and heroin. Contact the San Antonio Recovery Center at 866.957.7885 to request additional information and begin your journey to recovery.
