If you’re a cannabis fan, you’ve probably heard of distillate. That golden, potent concentrate that goes in vapes, edibles, or straight onto your dab rig. But what makes it so clean, so versatile, and so powerful? We’re here to break it down.
What Is Cannabis Distillate?
Think of distillate as the pure essence of cannabis. It’s a super-refined extract that packs high THC or CBD levels, we’re talking 80–95%, into a nearly flavorless, odorless oil. This means you get all the good stuff without the plant matter, waxes, or impurities that can slow you down.
It’s the go-to for vapes, edibles, and dabs because it’s consistent, potent, and easy to dose. Basically, it’s cannabis in one of its most elevated forms.
Step 1: Extraction - Pulling the Good Stuff
The journey starts with extraction. This is where cannabinoids and terpenes are pulled out of the raw cannabis plant. Popular extraction methods include:
-
Hydrocarbon Extraction: Uses butane or propane to dissolve cannabinoids from plant material.
-
CO₂ Extraction: Uses pressurized carbon dioxide to extract cannabinoids and terpenes.
-
Ethanol Extraction: Uses food-grade ethanol to extract cannabinoids efficiently.
The output? A full-spectrum oil that contains cannabinoids, terpenes, lipids, plant compounds, fats, and waxes—next stop: refinement.
Step 2: Winterization - Cleaning It Up
Winterization is basically a deep clean for your oil. By mixing it with ethanol and freezing it, fats and waxes solidify and can then be filtered out. The result is a smoother, cleaner oil that’s ready for further refinement and almost ready for its final form: distillate.
Step 3: Decarboxylation - Unlocking the Power
Cannabinoids in raw cannabis exist in their acidic forms (like THCA and CBDA). Decarboxylation is the process of heating the oil to activate these cannabinoids, turning them into THC or CBD, which are biologically active.
No decarb, no punch. This step is essential for making distillate hit just right and delivering the effects you expect.
Step 4: Distillation - The Magic
Finally, the magic happens in the distillation process. Using short-path distillation or fractional distillation, the oil is heated under a vacuum. Because cannabinoids and other compounds have different boiling points, the pure cannabinoids can be separated from the remaining impurities. Through this process, pure cannabinoids like THC are heated and turned into vapor, then cooled and turned back into liquid form. All the undesirable compounds are separated out.
The resulting product is a finely refined concentrate that resembles that golden, thick, and nearly flavorless distillate you're familiar with.
Why Cannabis Distillate Is Popular
-
High Potency: Distillate often contains 80–95% THC or CBD.
-
Versatility: Ideal for vapes, edibles, topicals, and dabbing.
-
Clean Experience: Minimal plant matter, odor, or flavor.
It’s a favorite among both recreational and medicinal users because of its purity and adaptability.
How Cannabis Distillate is Used
One of the best things about distillate is its versatility. Here’s some popular ways to enjoy it:
-
Vaping: Perfect for All-In-One Devices, Cartridges or Pod Systems. Distillate’s clean consistency makes for smooth hits and strong effects.
-
Dabbing: Hit it straight on a dab rig for maximum potency. Distillate delivers an intense, fast-acting experience.
-
Edibles & Beverages: Because it’s flavorless, distillate mixes perfectly into Gummies, chocolates, or drinks. A discreet way to enjoy cannabis anywhere.
-
Topicals & Infusions: Some distillates can be added to creams or balms for targeted relief.
Basically, if it can be infused, distillate can do it. With the addition of certain terpenes back into the concentrate (which contribute to the taste and aroma), distillate can deliver that smooth hit of delicious flavor that makes it easy, convenient, and tasty to use. Its purity and strength make it a go-to for both recreational and medicinal users.
FAQ About Cannabis Distillate
Can I make distillate at home?
Nope. Making distillate at home is risky AF—think flammable solvents and high heat. Stick with LITTO’s lab-tested products.
Is distillate safe?
Yes. Licensed facilities like ours make distillate under strict standards, so you get clean, potent, and reliable products.
How is distillate different from other concentrates?
Distillate is almost pure cannabinoids and very low in terpenes, whereas things like live resin keep more plant flavor and aroma.
Can distillate be flavored?
Totally. We can infuse it with terpenes to make flavored vapes or edibles, but the base is always clean and potent.
Bottom Line
Cannabis distillate is all about purity, potency, and versatility. LITTO products are crafted for maximum effect, whether you’re hitting an All-In-One Device or indulging in some LITTO Bites.
So next time you reach for a LITTO pen, remember: this isn’t just cannabis—it’s elevated cannabis, made for people who want to hit new highs every time.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis and hemp derived products (delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.