Cold Cure

What are cold cure concentrates?

Cold cure concentrates are a type of cannabis extract known for their high potency and flavor. The “cold cure” method involves curing the cannabis extract at low temperatures, which helps preserve the terpenes and cannabinoids that are often lost at higher temperatures. This results in a product that maintains a more robust flavor profile and potent effects.

Here’s a brief rundown of how cold cure concentrates are typically produced:

• Extraction: The process starts with the extraction of cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant using solvents like butane or CO2. This can also be done using solventless methods like rosin pressing.
• Purging: After extraction, the concentrate is purged of solvents at low temperatures. This step is crucial for safety and purity.
• Curing: Unlike traditional methods that may use heat to finalize the product, cold curing involves storing the concentrate at low temperatures. This slow curing process allows for the preservation of delicate terpenes and results in a softer, more malleable texture.
• Storage and Use: The final product is stored in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality and potency until use.

Cold cure concentrates are particularly popular among connoisseurs and medical patients due to their enhanced flavor and efficacy. They can be consumed in various ways, including dabbing, vaporizing, and adding to edibles.

How do you store cold cure cannabis concentrates?

Storing cold cure cannabis concentrates properly is crucial to maintaining their potency, flavor, and overall quality. Here are some tips for storing these concentrates:

• Keep it Cool: Store your concentrates in a cool, dark place. Ideal temperatures range between 32°F and 68°F (0°C to 20°C). Avoid storing them in places that experience fluctuations in temperature.
• Use Airtight Containers: Oxygen can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes over time. Use airtight containers, such as silicone or glass jars, to minimize exposure to air.
• Limit Light Exposure: Light, especially UV light, can also degrade cannabinoids and terpenes. Store your concentrates in opaque containers, or in a dark location, to protect them from light.
• Maintain Humidity: While humidity is more crucial for flower storage, keeping your concentrates in a controlled environment can prevent them from drying out or becoming too sticky. A humidity level of around 62% is generally recommended for cannabis products.
• Minimize Handling: Every time you handle your concentrates, you risk exposing them to heat and light, as well as contaminants from your skin. Try to handle your concentrates as little as possible, and always use clean, dedicated tools.
• Refrigeration: For long-term storage, you may consider refrigerating your concentrates. However, be cautious of humidity and condensation that can occur when removing them from the refrigerator. Allow the container to reach room temperature before opening to avoid moisture from affecting the product.

By following these storage guidelines, you can help ensure that your cold cure concentrates remain as effective and flavorful as when they were first produced.

How is Cold Cure made?

Cold cure is a method used primarily for producing cannabis concentrates, specifically live rosin, that maintains a rich flavor profile and high potency. The process of making a cold cure concentrate generally follows these steps:

• Extraction: The first step involves extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from freshly frozen cannabis using a solventless method, typically through a process called ice water extraction or bubble hash making. Freshly frozen material is used to ensure that the terpenes and cannabinoids are preserved in their most natural state.
• Pressing: The extracted material (bubble hash) is then pressed using heat and pressure to create live rosin. This step needs to be carefully controlled to ensure that the temperature is not too high, which can degrade the terpenes and cannabinoids.
• Initial Curing: Once the live rosin is extracted, it is initially set aside to allow for separation and stabilization. This is often done at room temperature or slightly cooler, and it allows the terpenes to start developing a full-bodied profile.
• Cold Curing: After the initial stabilization, the rosin is placed into jars and stored at low temperatures, usually in a refrigerator or a cool, controlled environment. During this time, the cold cure process allows the terpenes and cannabinoids to continue to mature, meld, and stabilize without the interference of heat. This process can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the desired consistency and flavor profile.
• Storage and Maturation: As the rosin cures, some producers might occasionally “burp” the jars – opening them to let out any excess moisture or gas. This helps prevent mold and promotes an even cure.
• Final Product: The result is a potent, flavorful concentrate with a unique texture that can range from a badder-like consistency to something more crumbly or buttery, depending on the specific temperatures and durations used during the curing process.

The cold cure method is highly regarded for its ability to produce a superior flavor and aromatic experience, making it a favorite among connoisseurs and those who prioritize terpene preservation in their cannabis concentrates.

How do I consume Cold Cure?

Cold cure concentrates, typically known for their rich terpene profiles and potent effects, can be consumed in several effective and enjoyable ways. Here’s how you can use them:

• Dabbing: This is the most popular method for consuming cold cure concentrates. Dabbing involves using a dab rig, which consists of a water pipe with a chamber for heating the concentrate. You heat the banger or nail, place a small amount of the concentrate onto it, and then inhale the vapor. Dabbing allows you to experience the full flavor and potency of the concentrate.
• Vaporizing: If you have a vaporizer designed for concentrates, you can use it to consume cold cure products. Portable vaporizers and vape pens offer convenience and efficiency. Ensure your device is compatible with the consistency of the concentrate, and use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Adding to Flower: You can add small pieces of your cold cure concentrate to the flower in your joint, blunt, or bowl. This enhances the potency and flavor of the smoke. It’s a straightforward method that doesn’t require any special equipment beyond your usual smoking tools.
• Edibles: Although not the most common method for cold cure concentrates, you can incorporate them into edibles. First, ensure that the concentrate is decarboxylated (a process that activates THC and other cannabinoids) if it isn’t already. Then, mix it into your cooking oil or butter, which can be used in various recipes. This method is less about tasting the concentrate and more about the effects.
• Topical Application: Some people use THC concentrates in topicals for localized relief of pain and inflammation. While cold cure concentrates are usually optimized for their flavor and aroma profiles, they can still be incorporated into carrier oils and applied topically.

When using cold cure concentrates, start with a small amount due to their high potency. Adjust your usage as you gauge their effects. Each consumption method can provide a unique experience, so you might want to try a few to find what works best for you.