What are Distillate Carts?

Known for its high potency, purity, and convenience, the distillate cart has become a go-to choice for those seeking a discreet and efficient way to enjoy cannabis. Short for “distillate cartridges,” these products are small, pre-filled containers of cannabis oil designed for use with vape pens or vaporizer devices. 

In this article, we’ll explore what makes distillate carts unique, how they’re made, and the benefits they offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis connoisseur or just starting to explore the options, understanding the distillate cart can help you make informed choices in your cannabis journey.

Understanding Distillate

Distillate is one of the purest forms of cannabis concentrate, containing nearly 100% pure cannabinoids. Through a meticulous distillation process, all plant material—including lipids, fats, and other compounds like terpenes—is removed. This process results in an ultra-pure form of the desired cannabinoid, most commonly THC but sometimes CBD or CBG. The resulting oil is devoid of the flavors and aromas naturally associated with the cannabis plant, making it a versatile base for edibles and vape cartridges.

When choosing a distillate cart, it’s essential to understand the key differences between THC and CBD. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” sensation, whereas CBD is non-psychoactive and more commonly associated with therapeutic benefits.

Due to its extreme potency—with purities often exceeding 99%—THC distillate should be used cautiously. This is particularly important for inexperienced cannabis users or those new to using distillates, as the high concentration can produce strong effects even in small doses.

Distillate Production Process

Distillate is produced using specialized equipment designed to extract active compounds from the cannabis plant and refine the extract to isolate the desired cannabinoid.

The process begins with an extraction stage, where a solvent—such as CO2, ethanol, butane, or propane—is used to dissolve the active compounds from the plant material. This extraction captures cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, as well as fats and waxes from the biomass. The resulting crude oil typically contains 60-80% THC or other cannabinoids.

Next, the crude oil undergoes a distillation process to further purify it. During this stage, the target cannabinoid is separated from the remaining compounds, resulting in a highly concentrated, refined product. This final distillate is prized for its purity and potency, making it a key ingredient in products like vape cartridges and edibles.

Distillate and liquid live resin are both cannabis concentrates, but they differ in key ways that significantly impact the user’s experience. While they share some similarities, their composition, extraction processes, and effects set them apart.

The primary distinction lies in their cannabinoid and terpene content. Live resin retains nearly all the cannabinoids and terpenes present in the plant at the time of harvest, preserving the full spectrum of flavors and aromas. In contrast, distillate undergoes a refinement process that removes terpenes and other compounds, leaving behind a highly pure, isolated cannabinoid.

Beyond composition, there are notable differences in their extraction methods, potency, and overall smoking experience:

Choosing Between Live Resin and Distillate

Both live resin and distillate are excellent choices for those seeking a potent cannabis experience. However, it’s important to consider the following factors when deciding between a distillate cartridge or liquid live resin:

Final Thoughts

Distillate carts offer exceptional versatility compared to many other cannabis products. They can be enjoyed on their own or used to elevate the potency of edibles, joints, vapes, dabs, and bongs with a THC-packed boost.

Due to their high potency, beginners should approach distillate carts with care and start with small doses. When used responsibly, distillates can provide a powerful, enjoyable experience, making them a valuable addition to any cannabis enthusiast’s options.

FAQs

Does Distillate Provide a Stronger High?

Distillate can produce a more intense high compared to other cannabis concentrates due to its significantly higher THC content. With THC levels often exceeding 90%, it offers a much stronger effect than regular cannabis flowers.

However, the experience of using distillate differs from consuming whole flowers. The cannabis plant naturally contains terpenes, flavonoids, and minor cannabinoids that contribute to the aroma, flavor, and “entourage effect,” which enhances the overall experience. This entourage effect is absent in distillate unless terpenes are reintroduced during production.

Can You Use THC Distillate for Smoking or Vaping?

THC distillate is suitable for both smoking and vaping. It can be vaporized with devices such as dab rigs, e-nails, or vape pens capable of reaching the necessary temperature for vaporization. Pre-filled distillate cartridges are a convenient option designed specifically for vaping.

If you prefer smoking, you can enhance the potency of your cannabis flower by adding a drop of distillate to your pipe or bong. For those who avoid inhalation altogether, distillate can also be used sublingually, infused into edibles, or applied in topical preparations.

What Does Distillate Taste Like in a Cartridge?

Distillate cartridges generally lack the characteristic flavor of cannabis flower because the terpenes that create the plant’s aroma and taste are removed during the refinement process. To improve the flavor and aroma, many manufacturers add terpenes back into the distillate. Without these reintroduced terpenes, distillate has a very mild or neutral taste.