The Canadian cannabis market has exploded with new products, and among the most exciting options are cannabis concentrates. These potent, flavour-packed extracts offer a unique way to enjoy cannabis, whether you’re seeking intense effects, a pure terpene profile, or a discreet way to consume.
If you’re curious about concentrates, this guide will help you understand what they are, how they’re made, and the different types available. By learning the basics, you can choose the concentrate that best matches your needs and preferences.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are highly potent extracts made by isolating the most desirable compounds from the cannabis plant, primarily cannabinoids like THC and CBD, and aromatic terpenes. The result is a product that can be significantly stronger than dried flower, often ranging from 40% to over 90% THC.
You may have heard concentrates referred to as wax, shatter, budder, hash oil, or dabs. While these terms describe different textures or extraction methods, they all fall under the umbrella of cannabis concentrates.
How Cannabis Concentrates Are Made
There are multiple ways to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis, and the chosen method affects potency, flavour, and texture. The most common extraction techniques include:
- Solvent-Based Extraction – Using butane, propane, ethanol, or CO₂ to strip cannabinoids from plant material. The solvents are later removed to leave behind pure concentrate.
- Solventless Extraction – Using heat, pressure, or ice water to mechanically separate resin from the plant without chemicals.
Producers may use the whole plant or focus on certain parts, such as resin-rich buds. The extraction method and starting material determine whether the final product is sticky, oily, crumbly, or glass-like in texture.
Popular Ways to Consume Concentrates
Concentrates can be enjoyed in several ways, depending on your preference and the product type:
- Dabbing with a Rig – Using a specialized glass piece with a heated nail to vaporize concentrates instantly.
- Vape Pens – Pre-filled cartridges or refillable vape systems offer a discreet, portable option.
- Nectar Collectors – A straw-like tool heated on one end, then used to touch the concentrate directly before inhaling.
Each method offers different benefits, from flavour preservation to convenience and portability.
Types of Cannabis Concentrates
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular concentrates you’ll find when you buy cannabis concentrates online in Canada:
1. Butane Hash Oil (BHO)
One of the most common concentrate types, BHO is made by blasting cannabis with butane to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. The result is refined into various textures, such as shatter, wax, or budder. BHO is known for its high potency and rich flavour, but should only be made by professionals due to the flammability of butane.
2. Wax and Budder
Named for their soft, creamy texture, wax and budder are terpene-rich concentrates that deliver strong flavour and aroma. They’re often stored in silicone containers due to their stickiness and are ideal for dab rigs.
3. Rosin
A solventless concentrate made by pressing cannabis flower, hash, or kief with heat and pressure. Rosin preserves the natural terpene profile, offering a clean, flavourful hit without chemical solvents. Many users love rosin for its purity and ability to be made safely at home.
4. Distillate
Highly refined cannabis oil that can reach up to 99% THC. Distillates are stripped of all other plant compounds, making them ideal for precise dosing. They’re commonly found in vape cartridges, edibles, and tinctures.
5. Shatter
Recognizable by its glass-like texture, shatter is a brittle form of BHO that’s clear and potent. It offers a strong, clean hit when dabbed and remains a budget-friendly choice for concentrate enthusiasts.
6. Live Resin
Made from freshly harvested, flash-frozen cannabis, live resin preserves more terpenes than dried-flower concentrates. The result is an aromatic, flavour-packed extract beloved by connoisseurs.
7. Hash
One of the oldest cannabis concentrates, hash is made by collecting and pressing resinous trichomes. Popular varieties include bubble hash (made with ice water), dry sift hash, and hand-pressed hash.
8. Crumble / Honeycomb
A dry, crumbly concentrate that’s easy to sprinkle on top of flower or dab on its own. Its texture makes it versatile and easy to handle.
9. CO₂ Oil
Extracted using supercritical CO₂, this method preserves terpenes while delivering a pure, golden oil. Often used in pre-filled vape cartridges, CO₂ oil is a favourite for those who prefer a clean, solvent-free taste.
10. Nug Run Concentrates
Made exclusively from premium cannabis buds instead of trim, nug run concentrates are high in cannabinoids and terpenes, making them a top-shelf choice for flavour and potency.
Choosing the Right Concentrate for You
When you buy cannabis concentrates online in Canada, consider your preferred potency, flavour profile, and method of consumption. If you’re new to concentrates, start with something easy to handle like wax or rosin. More experienced users might gravitate toward shatter, distillates, or live resin for maximum potency and terpene content.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis concentrates offer a powerful, flavour-rich alternative to traditional flower. Whether you enjoy the terpene-packed punch of live resin, the purity of rosin, or the sky-high potency of distillates, there’s a concentrate to suit your needs.
At Black Sheep Delivery, we make it easy to explore and buy cannabis concentrates online in Canada. Our curated selection includes top-quality shatter, wax, live resin, rosin, and more, all lab-tested and discreetly delivered to your door.

