There's no doubt that when you want a premium cannabis extract, rosin is the ultimate choice. But, with anything that claims to be "premium" or top-shelf, we tend to raise an eyebrow and assume something is sus'. It has been proven time and time again that the purity and quality that, yes, makes rosin worth the price.

What is Rosin?

We want to know what makes rosin so dang special to have a higher price tag, right? Well, the majority of a rosin extracts attraction comes down to its purity. Instead of using solvents like butane to extract the cannabis concentrates, it goes through a more meticulous and precise process.

In order to extract the rosin, heat and pressure is used in place of solvents. The process involves squishing some weed between two heated plates, causing the oils, terpenes, and cannabinoids to ooze out. This stick, resinous sap is then collected to create rosin, and commonly referred to as solventless hash oil (SHO).

History of Rosin

First appearing in 2006, thanks to a forum member, Compashon, in ICMag. They showed how you can use heat and pressure with dried flower and extract rosin. However, it wasn't until around 2015 that rosin really started to pop up on the market. It was Phil "Soilgrown" Salazar who really kicked off the fascination of a solventless extraction process.

It's kinda funny how Salazar caught everyone's attention. He legit used a hair straightener, of all things, to create rosin. It looked so simple, so easy, so... genius. The combo of Compashon's initial introduction and Salazar's impressive innovation, (wonder if a creative strain of cannabis was involved) brought the production of rosin to the forefront of the cannabis industry.

As rosin has evolved over the past decade, new techniques and equipment are being made to improve the extraction process and enhance the quality of the product. All of this fancy technology needed kind of helps us understand if rosin is worth the price.

Rosin Production

Any process to produce concentrate all starts with the cannabis flower used. Yes, low quality weed and top-shelf weed can be used to extract rosin. But, the reality that many manufacturers have noticed is that the better the cannabis used, the better the production process is. A better production process, meaning a higher yield, more consistent product, a richer flavor, and wayy more favored by us customers.

Differences Between Types of Rosin Presses

• Pneumatic Rosin Presses- uses compressed air to apply pressure and is the least labor-intensive. It does require access to a compressed air source and this is pretty pricey for large manufacturing. Using a pneumatic rosin press is favored throughout the industry since they are highly efficient and don't require a lot of hands on deck.

• Hydraulic Rosin Presses- uses compressed fluids instead of air to put the right amount of pressure onto the fresh flower. Even though the hydraulic cylinder does a majority of the work, a person still needs to use a hand and foot pump.

• Manual Rosin Presses- this is all on you, the process is all done using your strength to apply the necessary force. But, this is a great way to extract rosin if you are just curious or have some extra bud you don't mind experimenting with.

Types of Rosin

It's such a common thought, what's the difference between resin and rosin? What's the difference between rosin and live rosin? Again, it all starts with the freshly harvested strain of flower that's put into the press that matters.

Major brands like 710 Labs have different types of rosin. Tier 1 (lower grade), Tier 2 (medium grade), and Tier 3 (high grade). They don’t stop there! They also make a Rosin sap that has more of a loose honey consistency and is insanely flavorful. Another type of rosin they make is called Persy rosin, which is made from the finest spectrum of trichomes from the first wash using no solvents. It involves separating terpenes into a liquid form and crystallizing THCa into solid crystals. Yummy!

Hash Rosin vs Flower Rosin: What’s the Difference?

The primary distinction between flower rosin and hash rosin lies in their composition. Flower rosin includes plant lipids, waxes, and oils alongside the filtered resin from trichome heads, while hash rosin consists mainly of pure filtered resin. Furthermore, the differences in physical structure and purity of the starting materials require different extraction parameters for each type of rosin.

Benefits of Rosin

Full-Spectrum and High-Quality Rosin

One of the key benefits of rosin is that it can be considered a full-spectrum extract. Full-spectrum means that it contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds naturally found in the cannabis plant. This comprehensive profile is believed to contribute to the entourage effect, where the various compounds work together synergistically to enhance the therapeutic potential and overall experience.

High-quality rosin, regardless of whether it's hash rosin or flower rosin, offers several advantages. Aside from the incredible taste and quality, it provides a clean and solventless extraction method. This means that no additional solvents or chemicals are used during the production process, resulting in a more natural and pure end product. For individuals who prefer to avoid the potential risks associated with solvent-based extracts, rosin can be a favorable option.

Rosin vs. Other Cannabis Extracts

Rosin vs. Resin: What’s the Difference?

Compared to resin, which is essentially a concentrated form of cannabis obtained through various extraction methods, rosin offers a solventless alternative. Resin can be created using solvents like butane or CO2, whereas rosin is produced solely through heat and pressure. This distinction makes rosin a popular choice among those who prefer a cleaner and more natural extraction process.

Rosin vs. BHO vs. Shatter

When comparing rosin to BHO (Butane Hash Oil), there are notable differences. BHO is typically produced using butane as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. Although BHO can yield potent extracts, some individuals have concerns about potential residual solvents in the final product. In contrast, rosin eliminates the need for solvents altogether, providing a solventless alternative for those who prioritize purity and cleanliness.

Shatter is a type of cannabis extract that is known for its glass-like appearance and high THC content. It is often produced using solvents like butane or CO2. While shatter can offer potent effects, some users may have concerns about residual solvents or the potential loss of terpenes during the extraction process. With rosin, users can enjoy a solventless and full-spectrum extract that preserves the natural flavors, aromas, and therapeutic benefits of the cannabis plant.

DIY Rosin Production

Creating rosin is a straightforward and easily achievable process that can be done by most individuals. It can be safely produced at home with just a small amount of investment, giving home cultivators the opportunity to utilize their trim, which is usually discarded as waste after harvesting buds.

Step 1: Press your bud

You don't need to grind the bud. Lightly press it with your hands to make it easier to flatten. Make sure the nug fits inside the parchment and on the straightener's flat surface. Use properly cured buds that are not too wet or dry.

Step 2: Place the bud in a rosin bag

If you're using a rosin bag, put the plant material in it — it's recommended to use nylon food-grade screens or mesh bags.

Note: This step is not required for flower, but it is essential for hash or dry sift

Step 3: Set the temp

Using a hair straightener or press, begin with low heat, around 170°F, and gradually increase it. Using high temperatures can cause the plant material to burn and produce dark, runny rosin.

Step 4: Place flower inside parchment paper

Place your bag or loose flower between two sheets of parchment paper. Only use enough material that can fit under the heating element. Make sure to leave a few inches of extra parchment paper on all sides to catch the rosin and prevent it from spilling onto the plates.

Step 5: Apply pressure until you hear a sizzle

Use the preheated straightener to press the parchment paper for 4 - 30 seconds. The duration of pressing depends on the quality of the flower. Stop pressing when you hear a sizzling sound. Pressing firmly, with the straightener laying flat like a stapler, usually gives better results. It may take a few tries to get it right.

Step 6: Assess the amount of oil

After taking out the flower from the parchment paper, assess the quantity of oil obtained. Make sure it is what you are expecting. 

Step 7: Repeat the process

You can move the nug to a clean area on the paper or use a new piece of paper to press again. Keep pressing until no more fresh rosin comes out of the bud.

Step 8: Gather your rosin

After pressing is complete, use a dabber to gather the rosin.

Step 9: Store your rosin

Package or store the rosin for future use—placing it between parchment is suitable if you intend to use it soon. 

Try this: you can transform it into rosin taffy by stretching, pulling, and twisting it with the dabber until it reaches a taffy-like consistency.

Is Rosin Worth the Price?

Rosin is generally considered a premium cannabis extract due to its solventless extraction process, full-spectrum profile, and often high potency. It offers a clean and natural way to enjoy the flavors, aromas, and effects of the cannabis plant.

The cost of rosin can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the starting material, the extraction method used, and the market prices in your area. Prices ranging from $40 to $99 per gram are not uncommon for high-quality rosin.

Conclusion

The Future of Rosin in the Cannabis Industry

The future of rosin appears promising, and the momentum indicates that it's not slowing down. Its unparalleled quality makes it a clear choice for both entrepreneurs and discerning consumers. In the increasingly competitive extracts market, having every possible advantage is essential.

Predicting the next trend in the cannabis market involves taking a gamble. This is why most businesses are currently considered penny stocks. However, if you were to place a bet, rosin would be a solid choice. It's definitely going to be a significant part of the industry's future for the foreseeable future.

The end product is a crisp and lightweight bud that has a clean but very pungent smell. Also, this freeze-drying process saves the flower from producing any mold! It completely stops the degradation process, the reason your weed goes bad. 

How to Freeze Weed Properly

The whole freezing of weed thing is really a more beneficial process for bulk amounts of cannabis, like a greenhouse amount. But, there are a rare couple of reasons why putting your weed in the freezer can be a benefit. 

There's no need to freeze a few grams of flower, keeping it stored properly will keep it fresh for several months. Also, you don't just want to throw your weed in the freezer all willy nilly either. It's best if you use a vacuum sealing machine. You can find them at your local grocery store and are typically made for freezing and storing foods. 

You'll be defeating the whole purpose if this is your only choice of storage. Freezing, unfreezing, opening, and closing the bag your frozen weed is in will cause it to go bad… fast! So, if you're storing your weed in the freezer, it should be for an extended amount of time (weeks) and once taken out to consume, do not refreeze it. 

Effects of Freezing on THC and CBD

The most prominent effect that freezing has on THC and CBD is causing the trichomes to become more fragile than your ex. Literally like glass. When you freeze weed, these fragile trichomes will break right off when you touch the bud. There goes any bit of THC or CBD you were looking to consume. 

Can You Freeze Edibles and Concentrates?

Abso-freakin-lutely! We completely understand, that 200mg edible brownie you break down into 20 single 10mg pieces can become stale tasting before you know it. Keep half out for now and store the other half in the freezer! Of course, you should keep in mind things like freezer burn and letting it thaw before you consume it. 

For concentrates, storing oils, waxes, resins, rosins, etc., in the freezer is best for keeping it potent, tasty, and fresh for way longer. Your main concern here is making sure the container you're storing it in has an airtight seal. 

Common Misconceptions About Freezing Weed

Freezing your weed will not make it more potent, nor will it cause it to turn purple, sorry. It's pretty much impossible for freezing temperatures to completely altar the genetics of a cannabis strain. Ruling both of those factors out. 

Another common misconception is that freezing weed will kill off any mold growth or stop it from forming. Nope, not necessarily true. While it might slow down the degradation process of the cannabis, it doesn't completely stop it from aging or producing bacteria. 

Lastly, skipping the curing process and just freezing your weed is the farthest reliable method possible. Curing allows for the gradual breakdown of chlorophyll and other compounds, resulting in a smoother smoke and more complex flavor profile. That's what you want!

Conclusion

There aren't too many reasons for you to freeze your personal stash. Unless you're blessed with enough flower, edibles, or concentrates to last you a few years, leave the freezing process to the professionals. If you are storing your cannabis products in airtight containers and keeping them away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight, save the room in your freezer for more munchies!

Plus, they come in all sorts of flavors and strains, adding some variety to your smoke sesh. The best part? Making infused pre-rolls is relatively simple, so you can easily whip them up for your chill sessions with your buddies.

Types of infused pre rolls

Each type of infused pre roll has its own unique characteristics and effects. Decide if you are into a more tasteful smoke and appreciate the flavors of the cannabis-concentrate mix. Or do you not really care about the flavor, you just want to really level up your smoking experience?

Hash infused: Hash is made by extracting resin from cannabis plants, resulting in a concentrated form of cannabis. It's made with compressed and heated trichomes from the marijuana plant. Adding hash to a joint can enhance the potency and provide a unique flavor profile

Kief infused: Kief is the resinous trichomes that collect on the cannabis flower. It's like a fine powder packed with cannabinoids. Sprinkling kief into your joint can give it an extra boost of potency and a shnazzy punch.

Wax infused: Wax is a type of cannabis concentrate that has a thick, sticky consistency. It's highly potent and can be added to pre-rolls to provide a strong and intense experience. It's made with a type of cannabis concentrate that can be broken apart and added inside the pre roll.

Moon rock infused: Moon rocks are a special treat for those looking for an out-of-this-world experience. They're made by coating a cannabis bud with a layer of concentrate, like oil or wax, and then rolling it in a layer of kief.

Understanding Cannabis Concentrates

Solvent-based concentrates

These concentrates are made using solvents like butane, CO2, alcohol, or hydrocarbons. The solvent is used to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant material, leaving behind a concentrated substance. Examples of solvent-based concentrates include wax and rosin. Wax is known for its sticky, waxy consistency, while rosin is made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower or kief, resulting in a sap-like substance.

Non-solvent-based concentrates

These concentrates are made without the use of solvents and rely on heat and pressure to extract the desired compounds. Examples of non-solvent-based concentrates include kief and hash. Kief is the collection of resinous trichomes that can be sifted from cannabis flowers. Hash, on the other hand, is made by compressing resin glands, resulting in a concentrated form of cannabis.

Popular concentrates for infused joints

Diamonds: THCA crystals that form during the extraction process. THCA is what gets formed into THC, and when heated, it converts into the psychoactive compound we all know and love. Diamonds are highly potent and can add an extra kick to your joint.

Live resin: a cannabis concentrate made from fresh, frozen flower. Using an immediately harvested crop helps retain their flavorful terpenes and potent cannabinoids.

Preparing Materials

Selecting and grinding cannabis flower

Don't sell yourself short, get the high-quality cannabis flower for the best results. Look for flower that is fresh, fragrant, has all of the characteristics you fancy. When it comes to grinding, aim for a fine consistency. This helps ensure even burning and a smooth smoke sesh.

Choosing the right concentrate

When selecting a concentrate for your infused pre-roll, consider your desired potency and flavor profile. If you're looking for a strong kick, concentrates like hash, kief, or wax can provide that extra punch. Each concentrate has its own unique effects, so choose one that aligns with your preferences.

Preparing the joint paper and filter

Use a high-quality joint paper that can handle the added concentrate. Thicker papers or specialized rolling papers designed for concentrates are often a good choice. Additionally, creating a filter or crutch is essential to prevent bits of flower from entering your mouth. This can be made from cardboard or premade filter tips, giving a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience.

The Infusion Process

A popular and visually appealing way to infuse pre-rolls is by using the "hash hole" method, which involves inserting a rod of Hash Rosin concentrate into the center of the joint and rolling it together with the flower. This method is preferred over mixing the concentrate with the flower because it's easier to handle than cannabis oils. As the pre-roll burns, the concentrate vaporizes, leaving a distinctive hole down the center that's often featured in social media posts.

The way you infuse your pre-roll comes down to what concentrate you're working with. Since kief is more of a powder, you can sprinkle it on the inside of the joint before your wrap it up. Or you can break apart some wax or rosin into smaller pieces and lay it on top of the flower before you roll your joint.

Advanced Infused Pre Roll Techniques

To enhance your pre-rolls with kief, resin, or distillate, you can take a DIY approach similar to popular infused joint brands. Begin by gently warming your extract using a candle warmer or lighter until it turns into a liquid oil. This will help mix the oil, which may separate during storage, and decrease its thickness, making it easier to apply to your joint. Just don't overheat it!

Once the oil is smooth, use a paintbrush or food brush to evenly spread it on the outside of your joint. Apply the oil as evenly as possible and do your best to not use your fingers. Yes, it's tempting. But now you can dust some hash or kief onto the outside and really get a rip.

Benefits of Making Your Own Infused Pre rolls

Rolling your own infused pre-roll joint allows you to have control over the type of concentrates and strains you use. By infusing your own joints, you can choose high-quality cannabis strains with specific effects that suit your preferences.

Additionally, rolling your own infused pre-roll joint allows you to customize the potency of your joint. You can adjust the amount of cannabis you use and the strength of your infusion, giving you the freedom to create a joint that suits your desired experience.

This little arts and crafts project also provides an opportunity for creativity and experimentation. You can explore different infusion methods, such as coating the paper with cannabis oil or adding kief to the mix, to enhance the potency and flavor of your joint.

Lastly, rolling your own infused pre-roll joint can save you money in the long run. Purchasing pre-rolled joints from dispensaries can be more expensive than buying loose cannabis flower and rolling your own.

So, what is cannabis oil? Well, it's exactly what it sounds like: oil extracted from the cannabis plant. This oil contains all the good stuff that makes cannabis so special, like cannabinoids and terpenes. These are the chemical compounds responsible for the various effects and flavors you love. Cannabis oil is known as a "multi-target" compound since it communicates with several receptors in our body.

Definition and types of Cannabis Oil

BHO - Honey Oil

If you've dabbled in extracts before, there's a good chance you've experimented with Butane Hash Oil (BHO). BHO is quite popular due to its simplicity in production and strong effects!

BHO is considered a solvent oil, along with CO2 oil and alcohol-based oils. It typically has a light amber color and a sticky texture. Another common name for BHO is Honey Oil.

RSO - Rick Simpson Oil

Its THC/CBD content varies depending on the strain used, so different oils may have different suggested uses. Many RSO variants are available on the market, some even including additional healing herbs or ingredients, offering a wide range of options. Rick Simpson, the man behind RSO, gained fame for using it to combat his skin cancer back in 2003.

Rick Simpson also mentions that the levels of THC can reach up to 90%. Nevertheless, there are numerous types of cannabis strains with minimal THC content, indicating that there is a wide range of RSO varieties just as diverse as cannabis itself.

The extraction process of CBD oil

There are a few methods used to extract CBD oil from a cannabis plant. Of course, each method comes with the good and the bad. These different processes determine the quality and characteristics of the end product. Let's explore the most common extraction processes of CBD oil.

Solvent-based extraction:

Ethanol or butane are solvents used to soak the cannabis flower to dissolve certain cannabinoids and terpenes. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind a rich concentrated oil. While it may be an efficient process and pretty inexpensive, it's not the healthiest option due to the solvents used.

CO2 extraction:

To be able to take solvents completely out of the equation, carbon dioxide is used to extract CBD oils. CO2 goes through an efficient, high pressure, and low temperature process with cannabis flower. This makes the end product cleaner and considered a safe and environmentally friendly method. The downside is the high cost associated with this method, which in turn makes the product pricier than oils made by solvent-based extraction.

Less common extraction methods:

Some CBD oils are made with an olive oil base. It's traditional and simple, but yields a less potent oil with a shorter shelf life. There is also a method using dry ice to extract CBD oil. Dry ice is used to freeze and separate the trichomes from the flower. It's a pretty simple process just like using olive oil, and is also less potent and doesn't have a long shelf life.

The Golden Ratio of Cannabis Oil

The whole concept of finding the "golden ratio" of cannabis oil refers to the ideal balance of CBD to THC in the product. Since we all have a unique endocannabinoid system, how our body responds to different cannabinoids is based on several different factors. This makes it quite difficult to label a universal ratio that applies to everyone.

Common ratios

• High CBD, low THC (20:1): Perfect if you want to reap the therapeutic benefits without significant psychoactive effects. This ratio is helpful for managing anxiety, pain, inflammation, and seizures.

• Balanced CBD:THC (1:1): What many sources say is the golden ratio, delivers a fair balance between the therapeutic benefits of CBD and the "high" from the THC. For anyone looking to manage pain, sleep issues, and nausea, that also don't mind slight psychoactive effects should try out a cannabis oil with a 1:1 ratio

• High THC, low CBD (1:20): Best if you are familiar with the effects THC has on your body whether it's by recreational, smoking, vaping, edibles, or tinctures. Chronic pain and muscle spasms don't stand a chance when using a cannabis oil high in THC.

Topical CBD Products

CBD topical products

Topicals are infused with CBD oil and applied directly on your skin. We will go over the various forms in a minute, but first, what are CBD topical products used for? They are often used for localized relief, targeting specific areas that are causing discomfort or irritation. Mainly helping with muscle soreness, joint pain, skin conditions, sleep, and providing calming effects.

CBD oils

While CBD oils are not strictly topical, they are still effective when applied on the skin. You can even add a CBD oil to whatever topical products you are already using. Using a CBD oil during a massage is the ultimate relaxation and pain relief combo! Since they are typically potent with high amounts of CBD, all you need is a drop or two.

Benefits: CBD oils are super flexible when it comes to applying a correct dose. There are several ways to customize topicals by adding CBD oils.

CBD lubricants

Because why not? They are specifically designed to enhance sexy time. Cannabinoid receptors can be found throughout the female reproductive system, including the uterus and clitoris. Research has shown that the vagina has a higher concentration of CBD receptors compared to other parts of the body. When CBD is applied topically to this area, it can activate these receptors and widen blood vessels, making it easier for blood to circulate.

Benefits: Increases blood flow for enhanced pleasure in both men and women. A very relaxing and stimulating option to bring to the bedroom.

CBD lotions

One of the more popular cannabis oil products available. It can be used daily during your skincare routine. CBD lotions are a savior when it comes to dry, irritated, or inflamed skin.

Benefits: Moisturizing and nourishing on the skin. Also improves the overall health of your skin.

CBD creams

A thicker alternative to CBD lotions. When used for relief in smaller areas of the skin it has a longer-lasting effect than lotions.

Benefits: Its thick consistency makes it perfect for providing deeper hydration and can act as a protective barrier for your skin.

CBD gels

In general, gels are used for a more targeted relief with joint pain and irritated skin.

Benefits: Absorbed very quickly for rapid relief. The cooling effect can really come in handy for muscle and joint pains.

CBD patches

Often called transdermal patches, these offer a controlled and sustained release of CBD over a long time period.

Benefits: Super convenient and easy to use. Penetrates deeper into the skin reaching the bloodstream.

How to Use Cannabis Oil

Sublingual Administration: This method involves placing a few drops of cannabis oil under your tongue and holding it there for about 60-90 seconds before swallowing. This allows the oil to be absorbed through the mucous membranes in your mouth and enter your bloodstream directly. It's a quick and efficient way to experience the effects of the oil.

Oral Ingestion: You can also take cannabis oil orally by swallowing it directly or mixing it into food or beverages. When ingesting cannabis oil, it passes through your digestive system and is metabolized by the liver before entering your bloodstream. Keep in mind that it may take longer to feel the effects compared to sublingual administration, as it needs to be digested first.

Topical Application: If you have a cannabis oil product specifically designed for topical use, such as a lotion or cream, you can apply it directly to the skin on the affected area. Massage it gently and allow it to absorb. This method is often used for localized relief and skincare purposes.

Guidelines on how to take cannabis oil

Start Low and Go Slow: It's generally recommended to start with a low dose of cannabis oil and gradually increase it as needed. This allows you to gauge your individual response and find the dose that works best for you. Everyone's tolerance and sensitivity to cannabis can vary, so it's important to find your own comfort zone.

Read the Product Label: Always carefully read the product label and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. It should provide guidance on recommended doses, serving sizes, and any specific instructions for use.

Consider THC and CBD Content: Pay attention to the THC and CBD content in the cannabis oil you're using. THC is the psychoactive compound, and higher doses may result in intoxicating effects. CBD is non-intoxicating, but it may have its own effects depending on the individual. Adjust your dose accordingly to achieve your desired effects.

Be Mindful of Timing: Keep in mind that the effects of cannabis oil can take some time to kick in, especially with oral ingestion. It's important to be patient and allow sufficient time for the oil to be absorbed and metabolized before deciding if you need to increase your dose.

Store Properly: Follow the storage instructions provided with your cannabis oil to maintain its potency and freshness. Typically, it's recommended to store cannabis oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or excessive heat.

Quality and Safety of CBD Oil

How to distinguish high-quality CBD oil

High-quality cannabis oil starts with high-quality cannabis plants. Look for oil that is extracted from organically grown, pesticide-free, and non-GMO cannabis. Knowing the source and cultivation practices can give you confidence in the overall quality of the oil.

Extraction Method: The extraction method used can impact the quality of the oil. CO2 extraction, as we mentioned earlier, is often favored for its ability to produce clean and pure oil without the use of harmful solvents. Other reputable methods include ethanol extraction and hydrocarbon extraction. Avoid oils that use questionable or potentially harmful extraction methods.

Lab Testing: Trustworthy manufacturers often send their products to independent third-party laboratories for testing. These lab reports, often known as Certificates of Analysis (CoAs), provide information about the cannabinoid content, terpene profile, and the presence of any contaminants, such as pesticides or heavy metals. Look for products that openly provide access to these lab reports, as it demonstrates transparency and a commitment to quality.

Cannabinoid Profile: High-quality cannabis oil should have a consistent and accurate cannabinoid profile. This means that the levels of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, should match what is stated on the label or in the lab reports. Products with inconsistent or unreliable cannabinoid profiles may not deliver the desired effects or potency.

Transparency and Brand Reputation: Trustworthy brands are transparent about their sourcing, extraction methods, and testing procedures. They often have a positive reputation within the cannabis community. Look for brands that prioritize quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also help you identify reputable brands.

Packaging and Storage: Quality cannabis oil is often packaged in dark, airtight containers to protect it from light, heat, and air, which can degrade its potency over time. Proper packaging and storage are crucial to maintain the quality and freshness of the oil.

Cannabis Oil and Your Brain

Effects of CBD oil on the brain, including potential benefits and research findings

The effects of cannabis oil on the brain have been the subject of extensive research. Some studies have shown that THC can affect cognitive function, particularly in memory and attention tasks, especially at higher doses. However, the long-term effects of cannabis oil on brain function are still being explored, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits.

On the other hand, CBD has gained attention for its potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Preliminary research suggests that CBD may have potential therapeutic applications in conditions like epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and certain neurodegenerative diseases. There is still a lot of research to be done, but with the advancements made in the past 10 years, we can only imagine what another 10 years will bring us!

Of course they are commonly marketed for use with "tobacco". But we all know that a good majority of those buying rolling papers aren't using them to roll a cigarette. C'mon now. Even the plethora of different types of rolling papers available is a sure sign that stoners love rolling their weed up in quality paper. Especially the flavored options that really enhance the cannabis strain. 

Common Rolling Paper Materials

Since the beginning, wood pulp rolling papers have been the OG, and still used today. Most of the time the wood pulp is combined with other fibers to give them a more quality feel when rolling. They are generally thicker than other materials used for papers and can either come bleached or unbleached.

Bleached or Unbleached?

Wood pulp rolling papers are often bleached for a more consistent and cleaner look. Doing this also brings a smoother and less harsh inhale. Lastly, bleaching wood pulp rolling papers helps eliminate any natural smells and tastes you get from unbleached papers. The major turn off is the use of a toxic chemical, bleach…

Flax papers are another material used to roll up cannabis. Flax plants have super nutritious seeds that are turned into a rich oil. Its long stems are strong, lightweight, and thin, making it perfect for rolling paper. They burn slower and let you enjoy a longer smoke sesh. 

Next are rice rolling papers. Legit rice is compressed into paper and completely natural. It's an extremely fine and delicate material though. Yes, it's a much safer alternative for your respiratory system, but not a great option if you are newer to the art of rolling joints. Especially when it's super humid where you are rolling, they will just end up tearing apart in your fingers.

Rolling Paper Characteristics

It's fair to say that the cannabis industry has their customers in their best interest. Looking for your next pack of rolling papers is literally like any of us in a candy shop. All the different sizes, flavors, styles, materials, colors, designs…. The list goes on. 

We will get to all of the fun flavors next, but for now, you should get familiar with the different sizes. The most common size, and what is used to roll the bomb pre-rolls you get at JARS, is 1¼”. From this standard size, the papers get wider, thinner, and longer. 

Single Wide (68 x 34): perfect for those who prefer smaller, more discreet joints or for solo sessions when you want just a quick puff without using too much herb.

1 1/4" (76 x 45): offers a bit more surface area, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a medium-sized joint, allowing for a balanced smoke without being too overwhelming.

1 1/2" (76 x 60): great for those who like to roll larger joints to share with friends or for a longer, more relaxed smoking session without having to constantly roll up new ones.

Double Wide (76 x 63): ideal for those who prefer extra-large joints or for special occasions when you want to roll up a big, impressive smoke to pass around and enjoy with a group.

King (100 x 55): perfect for those who want a longer and thicker joint, providing a luxurious smoking experience that lasts a bit longer, perfect for kicking back and enjoying a leisurely smoke.

King Slim (105 x 42): better for those who prefer a longer and slimmer joint, offering a sleek and elegant smoking experience with less paper taste and more focus on the herb's flavor profile.

Flavored Rolling Papers

You really want to elevate your pre-roll game? Adding a burst of flavor to your joint is not only going to make it taste delectable, it can enhance the flavor of the strain you're smoking. Just think, a lemon flavored rolling paper with some finely ground up Super Lemon Haze flower? Yum!

Flavors can range from minty and refreshing to fruity berries, zesty citrus to rich dessert tastes. Some avid cannabis connoisseurs agree that flavored rolling papers tend to take away the all natural, full-bodied flavor of the cannabis. But hey, different strokes for different folks right?

Rolling Paper Filters, Crutches, and Tips

Adding additional accessories to your rolled up joint drastically improves the smoking experience, but is certainly not mandatory in order to smoke a quality joint. If you have experienced smoking a hand-rolled joint as is, just weed and paper, you've probably had a run-in with getting "pooped" on. When you inhale and little scooby snacks get into your mouth or fall from the joint. 

This is how filters, also called crutches, made their way onto the scene. Aside from avoiding the inhalation of weed flakes, these crutches give you a more comfortable hold onto your joint. Plus, you'll end up forgetting what a roach is, since singing your fingers isn't an option when using a filter. 

Choosing the Right Rolling Papers

Those who have been rolling up quality joints for years will most likely have a brand and type of rolling paper they are religious to. It comes down to the way the paper feels between your fingers, how much weed you roll up, how well it glues together, the taste, the burn rate… There are plenty of reasons why a person chooses specific papers over another. 

Top Rolling Paper Brands

Several of the same brands who make and sell rolling papers for cigarettes decided to hop on the bandwagon super quick once weed became legalized. For example, the very widely known brand Zig Zag. Since then, more and more brands are perfecting the rolling paper industry. Here's the brands we highly recommend rollin' up with. 

Zig Zag

The OG of rolling papers and easy to spot with the bright orange packaging. You can get ultra thin, hemp, kings, slims, flavored, and all sizes. 

RAW

We love RAW papers! They are the best, natural, unrefined rolling papers made from pure hemp. There is no bleach used in the process so its burn is extra smooth. They come in all available size lengths and also sell separate booklets of filters!

OCB

Super big on the "natural" materials, like flax. What sets OCB rolling papers apart from other brands is how evenly they burn and with very little ash. The brand carries different sizes and premium or bamboo options. 

Elements

All about being sustainable and friendly to our planet. All of their papers are made using rice paper, which burns super smooth and clean. Due to the material used, Elements papers are very thin. But, this means you get the full flavor of your weed. 

Juicy Jay's

We all like to have a little fun here and there. Maybe not the most "top quality" option in rolling papers, but the flavors are fire! The brand uses a "triple flavor dip" technology to really pack a punch of deliciousness to your mouth.

Conclusion