Marijuana misuse is so widespread that it has branched out to different methods and types of consumption. This includes dabbing, which can be dangerous and even harder to quit for those who are already struggling with substance use disorders.
But what’s a dab, how does it work, and what dangers does it bring? In this post, we’ll answer all these questions and where you can seek help if you’re struggling to quit this substance.
What is a dab?
A dab is a highly concentrated form of marijuana extract. It has a yellowish to dark-brown wax form that feels gummy.
Dabs drugs are made with the use of butane hash oil (BHO) to extract the resin of the cannabis plant. The process of making dabs is highly dangerous, as butane can cause massive explosions.
However, many are taking the risk of making dabs – mainly for the psychoactive effects it could bring.
It’s because the concentrated resin extracted from the cannabis plant contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Some have as much as 80% to 90% THC or CBD.
If the dab has THC, it will give a psychoactive or stimulating effect. However, if it has CBD, then it will give the user a deeply calming and soothing effect.
But what is dabbing drugs? The process of consuming the dab drug is called dabbing. This is done by heating the resin on a special equipment called dab rig. Once heated, the resin will produce smoke, which the user will ingest.
What are the effects of a dab drug?
So what are dab effects? The same with using marijuana, dabs can provide a euphoric and intense ‘high’.
Some users prefer dabs for its ‘smoother’ flavor than traditional marijuana. Also, others opt for dabbing to avoid exposure to carcinogens when smoking a joint or blunt.
And since dabs are highly concentrated, they give users a euphoric rush much stronger than traditional marijuana. This makes the dabs drug highly addictive.
While it’s unlikely that you’ll overdose from dabs, it can still create an endless cycle of substance abuse. Before you know it, you’re already addicted to the substance and have built a high level of tolerance. When this happens, you’ll continue to seek dabs, but in a much larger amount, just to feel the same effect as before.
What is a dabbing drug, and how is it done?
Consuming dabs can be done in different ways, but all of them involve heating. It can be through a dab rig, as we’ve mentioned earlier, a hot nail, dome, or torch.
The first step is to heat the nail, dome, or rig until it’s extremely hot. Next, the user applies the concentrate to the hot surface. As it comes into contact with the heated surface, the concentrate produces vapors that can be inhaled through a water pipe.
Overall, it’s quite similar to how most people will smoke marijuana, but with the use of different tools. Regardless of the method, the dangers of this substance still stand.
What are the types of dab drugs?
Now that you know what a dab is, let’s do a quick rundown of its different types. Each one has a unique characteristic and effect that many users seek:
- Wax. This type of dab is very similar to honey and very popular with beginners. It has a softer consistency and is easier to handle than shatter, another type of dab.
- Shatter. This dab type has an amber color with a glass-like, translucent consistency. It’s the purest of all dabs and delivers a very potent ‘high’ to those who will use it.
- Live resin. Unlike most dabs made from dried flowers, live resin is extracted from fresh and frozen cannabis flowers. This extract has more terpenes, which gives it a more aromatic and flavorful appeal.
- Budder. This type has a creamier texture and is easier to work with among users. It’s made by whipping the extract as the solvent is being removed.
- Crumble. It’s a drier version of budder, which is often sprinkled over a bowl or rolled into a joint.
- Rosin. This type of dab is made without using solvents. It’s produced through heat and pressure to extract the cannabis flower’s sap-like concentrate. Those who make DIY rosin would even use hair straighteners for this process.
What are dabs’ dangers?
Dabs are all fun and games until danger comes to bite you. Unlike traditional marijuana, dabs are highly concentrated, which can trigger paranoia, anxiety, and a severe case of dry mouth.
Aside from that, here are the potential dangers of getting hooked on dabs:
- Getting more addicted. Due to the strong ‘high’ dabs can give, many occasional marijuana users tend to spiral deeper into the vice. It will also make it harder to detox from marijuana.
- Intensifying mental health issues. Those who use marijuana as an escape from their mental health problems may experience worse symptoms when they get addicted to dabs. This makes them seek weed even more, which can lead to mental and physical health problems.
- Altering cognitive abilities. The potent nature of dabs will have a stronger action on your brain’s cannabinoid receptors. This will negatively impact your memory, coordination, pleasure, and perception of time.
- Increasing fire hazard. Many people attempt to make dabs at home only to end up in a catastrophic explosion or fire. It’s because production of dabs use solvents and high temperatures, which are a lethal combo. You may end up with injuries or worse, dead.
- Exposing yourself to contamination. A 2015 study found that about 80% of the tested cannabis concentrated, including dabs, are contaminated with residual solvents or pesticides. This could pose further health problems, especially for those making DIY dabs.
- Increasing the risk of respiratory problems. The by-products of the vapors and smoke during dabbing have a negative effect on the lungs. Prolonged use can lead to breathing issues and serious health complications.
Why is dabbing so popular among marijuana users?
You might be asking, what is dab weed, and why is it so popular?
First of all, dabbing has been around since the 1970s, and it continues to be a staple in many dedicated marijuana communities.
Aside from that, the potent effects of dab make it an attractive choice for many. This is much so for those who have THC tolerance and seeking a stronger ‘kick’.
The fast-acting effect of dabs also makes it a popular choice among those who are seeking relief through CBD variants.
Aside from that, concentrates like dabs can be smoked using vape pens and similarly portable devices.
But as much as it’s popular, dabs have its own share of dangers. One of which is tolerance and subsequent addiction.
Signs you’re addicted to dabbing drugs
Due to the legal status of marijuana in many states, it’s easy to access and abuse. This can lead to addiction, which will have a negative impact on different aspects of a person’s life.
Before it’s too late, it’s best to help yourself or a loved one identify signs of addiction. This way, they can seek marijuana detox and receive clinical guidance to quit the substance.
But then, the first step of treatment is accepting the fact that you need help. These are the tell-tale signs that you need to consider entering a drug rehab for dabs:
- Your use of dabs is starting to affect your responsibilities at work, school, or home.
- You’ve tried to quit marijuana or dabs before but still failed.
- You always crave dabs, and you’re willing to go to great lengths just to get it.
- You’re spending too much money on dabs and other marijuana products.
- You seem to need more and more amounts of dab to achieve the same high you had before.
- You’re starting to develop paranoia, anxiety, and other mental health disorders due to dab use.
- You tend to harm others or yourself whenever under the influence of dabs.
- You tend to engage in dangerous activities under the influence of dabs (such as driving a car or operating heavy machinery).
- You’re more interested in using dabs than in the activities you used to like.
- Your family members have expressed concerns over your well-being and substance use.
If you’re experiencing any of these while using dabs, you should consider marijuana addiction treatment. This way, you can receive help before the substance causes further health, financial, and personal problems.
Where to seek help if you’re addicted to dab
If you or a loved one need help with dab or marijuana addiction, LA Wellness Home is here to listen. Our addiction treatment center is open to anyone who wants to seek treatment for marijuana abuse, regardless of form and intensity.
In our inpatient rehab, you will receive 24/7 clinical care together with medically assisted detox. The duration of your treatment depends on your needs, as we always aim for long-term and sustainable recovery.
Above all, you’ll achieve recovery in our luxurious residential facility. We are equipped with private suites, gaming room, and outdoor areas where you can relax and focus on healing.
Aside from that, we have a private chef who will prepare all your meals to your liking. We also provide Sunday outings to all our clients, so they won’t miss the good things outside while they finish our program.
Whether you’re on the onset of substance abuse or already deep into addiction, our doors are open. LA Wellness Home is here to help you get your life back from addiction – all you have to do is contact us today.
