Live Resin & Live Rosin

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, new and innovative extraction methods have emerged to provide consumers with a wide range of concentrate options. Two popular forms of cannabis concentrates are live resin and live rosin. While both offer concentrated forms of cannabinoids and terpenes, they differ in terms of production methods and characteristics. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of live resin and live rosin, as well as reasons why someone might choose one over the other.

What Is Live Resin?

 Live resin is a cannabis concentrate that is typically made using fresh frozen plant material. It is produced through a process known as hydrocarbon extraction, where solvents like butane or propane are used to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant. The solvent is then purged, leaving behind a highly potent and flavorful concentrate.

Pros of Live Resin:

1. Aroma and Flavor: One of the standout features of live resin is its rich and aromatic terpene profile. Since the extraction process preserves the fresh plant material, the resulting concentrate retains the natural flavors and aromas of the cannabis strain, offering an enhanced sensory experience.

2. Potency: Live resin concentrates are known for their high cannabinoid content, including THC and other cannabinoids. This makes them appealing to users seeking a potent and fast-acting experience.

3. Variety: Live resin can be produced from various cannabis strains, allowing for a diverse selection of flavors and effects. This variety appeals to connoisseurs who appreciate the nuances between different strains.

Cons of Live Resin:

1. Production Complexity: The production process for live resin involves the use of volatile hydrocarbon solvents, which can be potentially hazardous if not handled properly. It requires specialized equipment and expertise, making it less accessible for home extraction.

2. Potential Residual Solvents: Although reputable manufacturers take precautions to remove residual solvents during the purging process, there is still a slight risk of trace amounts remaining in the final product. This is a concern for some users who prioritize purity and safety. Although at Bay Smokes, we only source our live resin from trusted extractors that we verify for quality and ability to fully remove solvents. Additionally, the final product is always tested for residual solvents to ensure safety.

What Is Live Rosin? 

Live rosin is another type of cannabis concentrate that has gained popularity in recent years. It is produced through a solventless extraction method that involves a multi-step process that starts with ice water and mixing to create an ice water hash. This is also known as bubble hash or full melt hash, referring to how the hash will fully melt in your banger or dab rig when heated. Live rosin takes this bubble hash, then applies heat and pressure in a rosin press. Live rosin is typically made from fresh frozen plant material, similar to live resin. 

Pros of Live Rosin:

1. Solventless Extraction: Unlike live resin, live rosin does not require the use of hydrocarbon solvents. This appeals to consumers who prefer concentrates produced through more natural and environmentally friendly methods.

2. Terpene Retention: The solventless extraction process used in live rosin production helps preserve the natural terpene profile of the cannabis strain. This results in a concentrate that offers a robust flavor profile and a more authentic representation of the original plant.

3. DIY Potential: Live rosin extraction can be done at home using a rosin press. This gives enthusiasts the opportunity to create their own concentrates from the comfort of their own homes, allowing for customization and experimentation.

Cons of Live Rosin:

1. Yield and Potency: Compared to live resin, live rosin extraction methods generally yield smaller amounts of concentrate. Additionally, the potency of live rosin may be slightly lower compared to live resin due to the absence of certain compounds extracted by solvents. But rosin is still generally considered a higher quality product due to flavor and texture.

2. Price: Because there are no solvents involved in the process, and the extraction is a lot more labor intensive, the final product is significantly more expensive. While a connoisseur never shies away from a premium price tag, the majority of consumers prefer live resin as it’s a much better bang for the buck and has a similar flavor profile.

Choosing Between Live Resin and Live Rosin: 

The decision between live resin and live rosin ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If you value potent, flavorful concentrates with a wide range of strain options and are comfortable with hydrocarbon extraction methods, live resin may be your choice. On the other hand, if you prefer solventless extraction, terpene-rich flavors, and enjoy the DIY aspect, live rosin may be more appealing.

It’s worth noting that both live resin and live rosin have their merits and can provide an enjoyable cannabis concentrate experience. It’s recommended to explore both options and experiment with different strains and extraction methods to find the one that suits your preferences best.