Cannabis wax is made by extracting cannabinoids from cannabis plants (usually marijuana) using a solvent such as butane or CO2 oil.
Once the extract is made, it’s poured into a mold to harden. Left in its hardened state, the extract is known as hash, which can then be broken into pieces and smoked. If the extract is allowed to cool and harden in the mold, it becomes a soft or hard wax.
Wax can also be made by dissolving the extract in a solvent such as ethanol and then pouring it into a mold to cool.
Because of its high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, waxes are popular among medical cannabis users. Waxes can be smoked in a pipe or added to food or drinks.
Some waxes have a higher level of terpenes than cannabinoids, which means they have a strong smell and taste. These types of waxes are often used in cooking.
Cannabinoids: Up to 90% of the total cannabinoid content of cannabis is present in the form of hashish or wax. These compounds are psychoactive and cause mind-altering effects when consumed. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive component in cannabis. CBD, or cannabidiol, causes more of a sedative effect than THC and is used to treat ailments such as anxiety and epilepsy.
Terpenes: Waxes also contain significant amounts of terpenes, which give them their smell and taste. Some terpenes produce psychoactive effects, while others don’t. Limonene is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis. It produces citrus-like smells and tastes.
Other compounds: Wax also contains small amounts of other compounds such as cannabinoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids.
