{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/shatter/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2414-markdown","title":"The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Concentrates","slug":"the-ultimate-guide-to-cannabis-concentrates","content":"### What is a Concentrate?\n\nConcentrates can be confusing to many people, especially those new to the world of cannabis, because there are many different types of cannabis products that are called ‘concentrates’. From wax to tinctures to oils, cannabis concentrates can be extremely potent and in many cases contain very strong doses of cannabinoids. Some may argue that concentrates are too strong, whereas others may say they deliver an extremely potent dose of medication to those who need it most.\n\nAll concentrate products are extracted from the plant using solvents, most commonly butane, CO2, or ethanol. The extraction process leaves behind a condensed product that provides a powerful dose of medication. It’s important to note that concentrates actually concentrate what is within the plant, so if there are pesticides present, those too become concentrated. It is for this reason you should always buy concentrates from a reliable brand that makes concentrates from pesticide free plants, ideally using organically grown cannabis. \n\nFor patients who need potent medicine with extra strength pain relief, concentrates are often considered to have the most efficacy. The cannabis industry has quickly embraced the world of concentrates as more and more people see the potential medicinal value. Here we provide an overview on concentrates that are readily available on the market today.\n\n### Kief & Hash\n\nKief, which is also sometimes referred to as pollen or dry sift, is a powdery substance made from the resin glands on the trichomes of the cannabis bud. Trichomes are the substance on the outside of the cannabis flower that look frost-like in appearance and contain a concentrated dose of cannabinoids and terpenes. \n\nKief can be removed from the cannabis flower by a variety of extraction methods that strip the substance off the plant. Kief is commonly made into hash, which is made by compressing the kief into a more condensed and solid block. Both of these products are most often added to a smoking device or rolled into a joint in order to increase potency of the primary cannabis product being consumed. \n\nRELATED: [IS DABBING GOOD FOR YOU?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55d4b9616531660006070000/is-dabbing-good-for-you)\n\n### Oil\n\nOil is most often made using a butane, ethanol, or CO2 extraction method. CO2 extracted oil is often touted as the oil with the least amount of residue in it, but there are different benefits for each extraction method. Oil can be used in dabbing or vaporizing, depending on its consistency. CO2 oil is most often used in vaporizers because it normally has a more liquid consistency, whereas butane oil can range from liquid to stiff, based on the extraction process. \n\nThe stiffer oils are often used for dabbing, though they do have other uses, as well. They are known as shatter, crumble, budder, and wax. Another well known type of oil is Rick Simpson oil, which is extracted using a concentrated alcohol. Rick Simpson-like oils vary, but they are often dark and tar like in color. \n\n>Shatter: Shatter is a strong, glass-like form of butane extracted oil that is known for shattering when dropped. Depending on the variety, it is sometimes sticky or smooth to the touch. Shatter is known for being one of the purest concentrates. \n\n>Crumble: Crumble is the driest variety of butane extracted oil and it is easy to break up into smaller pieces. It is known as one of the most user friendly varieties of butane extracted oil. \n\n>Budder: Budder is a thick extract that almost has the consistency of caramel candy. It is made by whipping shatter with the addition of a small amount of heat. \n\n>Wax: Wax is known as the stickiest concentrate, which is often attributed to its large amounts of decarboxylated THC. It has a very thick but moldable consistency. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/584dbb894bcfb100082a4383/embedded_images/584dbbc94bcfb1000cc819ee/Screen_Shot_2016-12-11_at_12.47.04_PM.png)\nAn image of cannabis wax\n\n### Tinctures\n\nTinctures have historically been one of the most common ways that cannabis has been consumed as a medication. Prior to marijuana prohibition, cannabis tinctures were commonly prescribed to patients as a remedy for a variety of medical conditions. Tinctures are often extracted through alcohol and may, depending on how it is made, contain very high levels of cannabinoids. Tinctures are normally administered through a dropper sublingually, though it can be mixed into different drinks or liquids before being consumed. Tinctures are a great way to consume cannabis for those who prefer not to smoke.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_/?hl=en) \n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/14b42/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/f836f/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.jpg 200w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/2244e/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.jpg 400w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/14b42/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.jpg 800w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/47498/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/54ac5/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/58556/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/61e93/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.webp 200w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/1f5c5/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.webp 400w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/58556/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.webp 800w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/99238/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.webp 1200w,\n/static/ccda02b1ff3d20db9ac03c0468d8a95f/5e0b8/4462a483d56f63acbfae5abd0501ea16.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2041-markdown","title":"Smoking Dabs: Is it Bad for You?","slug":"smoking-dabs-is-it-bad-for-you","content":"### Is Dabbing Bad?\n\nDabbing is one of the most controversial methods for administering marijuana to patients. Despite dabbing’s bad reputation, it has strong medicinal benefits. Dabs allow patients to quickly receive a strong dose of cannabinoids that is not possible with almost any other administration method. \n\n### High Strength Concentrates\n\nThe marijuana extracts, also known as concentrates, that are used in dabbing are known for their high levels of THC. However, they are also high in other beneficial components, such as other cannabinoids and terpenes. \n\nAll of the components of the plant are amplified in cannabis extracts and they work together in a synergistic manner. This is also known as the entourage effect. The high strength of all of the cannabis components provides a strong hit of medicine that gives patients quick and effective relief. \n\n### Significant Pain Relief\n\nMany patient support groups have expressed that dabs have a place in medical cannabis for patients that have extreme pain. Since dabbing provides rapid relief, it can be particularly helpful for patients who experience quick onset pain that is particularly excruciating. Concentrates are on average four times stronger than smoking a joint. This means by dabbing a patient can receive a much stronger medicinal dose in one shot. \n\nIn particular, dabbing can be helpful for patients who have problem with pain induced insomnia. Concentrates are known for their psychoactive effects because of the high levels of THC, but the high levels of THC also help patients fall asleep quickly and many of the psychoactive effects will wear off before the patient wakes up. \n\n### Extraction Methods Matter\n\nPatients should know that concentrates are concentrated forms of the plant. This means it is important to only select extracts created with organic ethanol, water, or CO2 that are grown without the use of pesticides and toxic chemicals. For this reason, the extraction methods of cannabis wax are a big source of controversy. It is important to choose cannabis extracts that are high in quality in order to not receive any adverse effects from dabbing, especially with those who may have compromised immunity.\n\nMany extracts are made with butane, which can leave a dangerous residue in the cannabis extract. CO2 extraction has been prized as the cleanest way to create a cannabis extract, but some people argue that terpenes aren’t preserved in wax created from CO2 extraction. Organic ethanol extraction, however, has been seen to have less problematic residue than butane, but preserves the terpenes in cannabis.\n\n### Strong Pain Relief\n\nThe Addictive Behaviors Journal published a study from the State University of New York in Albany which was conducted with 357 patients who participated in dabbing. All of the patients had a history of cannabis use and the study determined that dabbing causes no more problems than with traditional cannabis. \n\nThe participants reported that dabs did, however, lead to higher tolerance levels and withdrawals. The consumers within the study, overall, did view it as a more dangerous form of cannabis administration than traditional smoking. \n\nDabbing is the strongest form of cannabis that a patient can administer, but it can be helpful for a particular series of medical conditions that require a very strong dose of pain reducing medication. Dabbing is also helpful for people that have severe pain that comes on quickly and acutely, or those with pain induced insomnia. \n\nPeople considering trying concentrates for their medical conditions should be very careful when trying dabbing for the first time. Starting with a low dose is very important, as well as avoiding driving or doing other similar tasks for a significant period of time after dabbing due to its strong psychoactive effects. \n\nPeople with conditions like anxiety and depression, in particular, should be wary of how the strong levels of psychoactivity could effect them because dabs have extremely high levels of THC.\n\nDo you have questions about about cannabis? Ask a question on [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers). A doctor or member of our community will answer.\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/14b42/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/f836f/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.jpg 200w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/2244e/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.jpg 400w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/14b42/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.jpg 800w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/47498/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/54ac5/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/58556/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/61e93/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.webp 200w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/1f5c5/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.webp 400w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/58556/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.webp 800w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/99238/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.webp 1200w,\n/static/22ea92309efa8e3878ba7d9066e79983/5e0b8/3cb5c7b5227a967eb61eccffef8b586e.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1960-markdown","title":"Why Dabbing Has No Place in Medical Marijuana","slug":"why-dabbing-has-no-place-in-medical-marijuana","content":"Or does it? Many people assume that dabbing is for recreational use only and for good reason. Its popularity has surged among marijuana enthusiasts over the past few years, and it has become well known for its quick onset and robust effects.\n\nHowever, many medical patients dab due to the intensity of their condition and the need for stronger symptom relief. Dabbing quickly provides a much stronger dose of cannabinoids, and the results for medical patients can be life-changing. Unfortunately, mainstream media has painted a dark picture of dabs, pointing to psychotic episodes and exaggerating possible health dangers.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### When it Comes to Cannabis, What Are Dabs?\n\nDabs are cannabis concentrates, which are also known as wax, honey, BHO, oil, dabs and shatter. They are typically very high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), often in the range of 60–90%. For medical patients who want quick relief without the psychotropic high, CBD-dominant dabs are also available, although they’re often harder to find.\n\nConcentrates are extracted using butane, CO2 and solventless extracts such as rosin. The extraction process can be dangerous, depending on the method used, and explosions have occurred due to flammable gases and lack of proper ventilation. For this reason, amateur enthusiasts should leave it to the professionals when it comes to extraction.\n\nDabbing marijuana is done by heating a small amount of concentrate over a heat source and inhaling the vapor. New dabbing technologies continue to be developed, and the set-up for dabbing may vary from person to person.\n\nSome people prefer to heat their concentrate on a titanium nail, which is then heated with a torch, placed into a water pipe and smoked. Others prefer purchasing a dab rig, which can be either elaborate pieces of equipment, or extremely portable and efficient. Since there are so many choices available today, it comes down to a matter of personal preference as to which type of dab rig and equipment are used.\n\nRELATED: [WHY DO SOME PATIENTS DAB MARIJUANA?](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-do-some-patients-dab-medical-marijuana)\n\n### What Are the Effects of Dabbing Marijuana?\n\nIf you’re experienced with cannabis, and have a higher tolerance to THC, dabbing may be an excellent way to medicate. If you’re a novice consumer, the effects of a high THC, and possibly even CBD-dominant dab, may be too overwhelming. For those who can tolerate dabbing, the effects are often described as a smoother overall experience with an intensity unrivaled by traditional methods of smoking. Patients often describe a cleaner taste and a high that’s different from other methods of ingestion. For medical patients in chronic pain, with PTSD or who experience extreme nausea, dabbing may provide effective relief immediately. \n\nWhen concentrates are manufactured properly and are “clean” of harmful chemicals, immune-compromised patients inhale a product that may be healthier and better for the lungs than that of traditional flower. It’s important to note that if you begin dabbing consistently, your tolerance will most likely go up, and traditional methods of consumption may no longer provide the same relief or the desired effect. In some cases, when a person dabs too often and then stops, withdrawal symptoms may occur.\n\nDue to the potency of concentrates, it’s also possible to consume too much cannabis. Symptoms of dabbing overconsumption include vomiting, paranoia, immobility, confusion, an accelerated heart rate and even fainting. As with all methods of consumption, go low and slow. With dabbing, the saying “less is more” holds true.\n\nPhoto credit: [Steven Schwartz](https://www.flickr.com/photos/amoosefloats/17548136534/in/photolist-q8oAcn-t7xRQu-dCzfDq-pRCCz2-dpm2WP-dyMt4o-ECFyFr-dGbJsN-daoMBj-dBrRLv-dCzfx3-dpm386-EeVCyY-EK4kPm-CXHbt6-FcCh4t-sJEMCb-Fd7dLa-t1osCN-rfBbhZ-tkoMsf)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3986013986013985,"src":"/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/00496/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.png","srcSet":"/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/69585/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.png 200w,\n/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/497c6/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.png 400w,\n/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/00496/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.png 633w","srcWebp":"/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/5a853/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/61e93/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.webp 200w,\n/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/1f5c5/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.webp 400w,\n/static/a3740a09abc992b407ccf7079399acaa/5a853/68ff90ad97263d2688a522dbf714626c.webp 633w","sizes":"(max-width: 633px) 100vw, 633px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2024-markdown","title":"What is Cannabis Wax, Shatter and Oil?","slug":"what-is-cannabis-wax-shatter-and-oil","content":"When most people hear 'medical marijuana', they think about flowers or bud that are\nsmoked. But cannabis comes in a variety of forms, including concentrated\nextracts that can be taken in lots of different ways.\n\nCannabis extracts are growing in popularity, comprising between [30 and\n60\npercent](http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2015/01/12/is-cannabis-extraction-the-future-of-a-multi-billion-dollar-industry/)\nof legal market sales in states that have legislation regulating\nmarijuana. The names for these extracts -- oil, wax and shatter -- refer\nto the texture and consistency of the concentrate. Here's an explanation\nabout these cannabis extracts and a guide to the differences between\nthem.\n\n### Cannabis Concentration\n\nThe cannabis plant contains hundreds of compounds, including\ncannabinoids, which are the chemicals responsible for the plant's\npsychoactive and medicinal properties. About [85\ncannabinoids](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2866040/)\nhave been identified in cannabis, but the most common and most\nfrequently studied are Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol\n(CBD). THC is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis and is\nassociated with such medicinal effects as [pain\ncontrol](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3820295/), [mood\nstabilization](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2866040/),\n[sleep improvement](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/164314),\n[appetite\nenhancement](http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/scientific-explanation-how-marijuana-causes-munchies-180949660/?no-ist)\nand [inflammation\nreduction](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/). It has\nbeen approved in a number of countries to treat spasticity in patients\nwith [multiple sclerosis](http://www.gwpharm.com/Sativex.aspx), and it\nhas been associated with improvements in patients with\n[asthma](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.12597/full).\n[CBD](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3579248/) has been\nshown to reduce nausea and vomiting, suppress seizures, reduce\ninflammation, enhance moods and reduce pain.\n\nThe percent of active cannabinoids, referred to as potency, varies from\nplant to plant and is dependent on such variables as climate,\ntemperature, humidity and soil conditions for the growing plant. Plants\ngrown indoors under controlled conditions usually have [higher\npotency](http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/frontpage/2009/June/why-does-cannabis-potency-matter.html)\nthan plants grown outdoors. Potency is measured as the percent of active\ncannabinoids per dry weight of material. For example, average THC\nconcentration in cannabis varies between [1 and 20\npercent](http://adai.uw.edu/marijuana/factsheets/potency.htm).\nExtracting the cannabinoids from the plant increases that potency to\nbetween [40 and 80\npercent](http://www.dea.gov/pr/multimedia-library/publications/marijuana-concentrates.pdf).\n\nThe benefits of increased potency means that patients need less product\nto achieve the medical results needed.\n\n### Extracting Cannabinoids\n\nCannabinoids are extracted from the plant by use of a solvent. Common\nsolvents include:\n\n-   Butane\n-   Isopropyl alcohol\n-   Carbon dioxide\n-   Ethanol\n-   Water/steam\n-   Hydrocarbons\n-   Propane\n\nThe plant material, usually consisting of the buds, flowers, stems and\nleaves, is soaked in the solvent and then strained. This process is\nusually repeated. The resulting liquid is then heated in a vacuum oven\nto remove the solvent. The remaining resin is cannabis concentrate.\n\nIt is estimated that it takes about one ounce of marijuana plant to make six\ngrams of cannabis oil, or that it takes about five pounds of plant to\nget 120 to 140 grams of extract.\n\nAlthough the process for extracting cannabinoids can be done at home,\nand there are many web sites that explain the process, there are risks.\nOne risk is the very real danger caused by improper ventilation and the\nheating of potentially flammable solvents, such as butane. In 2014,\nColorado reported [32 home\nexplosions](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2015/05/23/hash-oil-explosions/27737635/)\nthat were confirmed as being caused by cannabis extractions. As a\nresult, the state passed legislation in 2015 restricting the use of\nhazardous materials in the extraction process for non-licensed\nmanufacturers of cannabis extracts.\n\nA second problem is control of contaminants. Some solvent may remain in\nthe resin despite the heating process, and the extraction process may\nnot remove contaminants, such as pesticides, that are used in the\ngrowing process. For instance, [Washington\nState](http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/modern-marijuana-more-potent-often-laced-heavy-metals-and-fungus-180954696/?no-ist),\nwhich legalized recreational marijuana in 2014, tests product regularly\nfor salmonella, *E. Coli*, and other contaminants, and rejected about 13\npercent of the marijuana produced in the state in 2014.\n\nThe third problem is consistent potency. Do-it-yourself production does\nnot necessarily have quality control over the potency of your product.\nIf your recommendation for medical marijuana requires a specific potency\nlevel, you may be better off relying on a pharmaceutically prepared\nextract.\n\n### Texture & Consistency of Cannabis Extracts\n\nThe texture and consistency of the cannabis extract is what gives the\nextract its name. Texture can be affected by the temperature of the\nheating process, the amount of moisture in the plant material and any\nagitation or stirring that occurs prior to the purging phase (removal of\nthe solvent). Extract that appears as a thick, sticky resinous liquid is\ncalled cannabis\noil.\nCannabis oil is sometimes called honey oil due to its gold color, or\nbutane oil in reference to the most commonly used solvent.\n\nExtract that is thick and opaque is referred to as wax due to its\nsimilarity to beeswax or earwax. Cannabis wax results from\ncrystallization caused by agitation either through stirring or rapid\nheating. Wax can vary in texture from a somewhat thick liquid to candle\nwax.\n\nShatter is more brittle and clear, and is almost glasslike in\nappearance. When heated, it can be pliable, but it can also break easily\nwhen it is cooled, hence the name.\n\nPatients who use cannabis extract for treatment often employ\nvaporization\nor\ndabbing.\nThese methods heat the cannabis to a temperature lower than that of\nsmoking, creating a mist or vapor that can be inhaled. This makes it\nideal for patients who are experiencing nausea or who cannot or do not\nwish inhale smoke. Cannabis oils also can be taken orally via a capsule,\nan oral syringe or as drops under the tongue. If prepared with an edible\nsolvent, such as olive oil or butter, it can be used in cooking and\npreparing cannabis edibles.\n\nThe potency and effects of the various forms of cannabis extract are\nsimilar across the products. The type recommended for patients will\ndepend on their condition, symptoms and their provider's\nrecommendations.\n\n[Photo credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/symic/8140469407/in/photolist-q8pnum-pRCCz2-dCzfDq-dBYPid-7rrhKX-dpm386-dCzfx3-CXHbt6-sJEMCb-dpm2WP-dBYPts-dG6DFa)\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.2578616352201257,"src":"/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/3c17d/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.png","srcSet":"/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/69585/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.png 200w,\n/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/497c6/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.png 400w,\n/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/3c17d/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.png 720w","srcWebp":"/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/2aa8d/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/61e93/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.webp 200w,\n/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/1f5c5/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.webp 400w,\n/static/21b12ee85f8596f7c586f10b188d84c0/2aa8d/12dc4ee604bbea8d73a6360e8e0eb81b.webp 720w","sizes":"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5740,"name":"Shatter","slug":"shatter","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}