Dabs Meaning: What You Need to Know

Dabs are highly concentrated forms of marijuana that are made using a butane extraction process. They contain higher levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active compound found in cannabis, than are found in other forms of marijuana. [1] THC is responsible for the high that people feel when they smoke marijuana.

The high potency of dabs is what makes them so dangerous. When people use dabs, they experience a different kind of high with more intense effects, and the chance of developing an addiction increases. [2] Dabbing has become increasingly popular due to its effects, and these come with concerning health risks.[3]

Dabs are small amounts of cannabis extracts that are extremely potent when used because of the high THC levels they contain. People use marijuana dabs by vaporizing the concentrates on a hot surface and inhaling the fumes that this process creates.[4] The dabs are typically sticky in texture and have a dark brown or yellow coloring.

What is a Weed Dab, and How are Dabs Made?

A weed dab is typically made using butane that is poured over the marijuana, allowing THC to leave the plant and dissolve into the butane.[5] The butane and THC solution gets pressed through a filter and is then placed in a dish or tray.

A dab rig is used to smoke the substance, and this setup includes a water pipe, a dome, a torch, and a nail usually made of titanium, quartz, or ceramic.[6]

The torch heats the nail until it reaches a high temperature, and a small amount of cannabis concentrate made from the butane process is then placed onto the hot nail. As the concentrate makes contact with the hot surface, it begins to vaporize. People then use a water pipe to inhale the vapor and elicit a euphoric high.

How Potent are Dabs?

Dabs contain very high THC levels. THC concentrations in dabs can range from 60% to 90%.[7] Some extremely potent concentrates can have more than 90%. The THC levels can vary based on the product and brand.  To put it in perspective, unaltered marijuana only has a THC content of 15-20%.

Types of Dabs

Dabs come in different varieties, such as:

• Wax: A sticky substance that resembles candle wax
• Budder: A creamy and butter-like substance with a smooth texture
• Shatter: This form can easily break into pieces with its brittle and glass-like texture.
• Oil: This liquid concentrate is typically used in vape pens.

All of these types of dabs contain a higher THC concentration than regular marijuana.

How are Dabs Different from Marijuana?

Besides the difference in THC level, there are other factors that differentiate dabs from marijuana. Marijuana is a dried and cured cannabis plant. [8] It is also typically smoked and ingested. When smoked, the effects can be felt in minutes. When ingested by taking edibles, it can take a little longer to get high.

While marijuana is a plant, dabs are concentrated cannabis extracts that come in different forms. Dabs are vaporized rather than smoked. It takes 5-10 seconds for THC to reach the brain this way, with the effects felt within minutes. [9]

What are “dabs,” and how are they used in cannabis culture?

Dabs are used in cannabis culture because of the higher THC concentration they contain, among other factors. The high comes fast and furious. This can be appealing for people who want a quick high. [10]

Many people like dabbing because the concentrate form requires smaller amounts of cannabis to get high. This can be seen as an easier and cheaper way to get high for people who want to stretch their supply.

If people want variety in their cannabis supply, dabbing allows them to experiment with different types of concentrates. This includes taste and smell profiles. The variety leads to different experiences that people in the cannabis culture enjoy.

What are the potential risks and effects of dabbing?

The strong THC content of dabs brings serious side effects and health risks.

Side Effects of Dabbing

When people use dabs, they can experience many different side effects, including: [11]

• Increased heart rate
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Anxiety
• Poor balance
• Slurred speech
• Vomiting
• Trouble learning
• Memory problems

Health Risks of Dabbing

The health risks of dabbing can have serious short-term and long-term consequences. [12]

• Respiratory Problems: When the nail is heated in the dabbing process, it can produce potentially harmful byproducts. These vapors can lead to respiratory system irritation. Frequent and heavy use can cause breathing problems.
• Increased Tolerance: If someone is dabbing regularly, it can lead to an increased THC tolerance. People may crave larger amounts of cannabis to get the same effect.
• Psychological Effects: Because the high from dabbing comes on so quickly and is so intense, it can be overwhelming for some people. Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and paranoia are common effects.

People with a family history of serious mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia should avoid dabs because of the mental health risks they pose. [13]

Legal Issues

There are also legal implications of using dabs, even in places where marijuana use is permitted. Fines or arrest can be possible depending on the laws where you live.

How Can I Tell Someone is Dabbing?

People will show physical, social, and behavioral signs that could signal they are dabbing.

Physical Signs

When someone is dabbing and using marijuana, you may notice these changes: [14]

• Bloodshot eyes
• Dry or cotton-mouth
• Intense food cravings
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure

Social Signs

People may change the way they act, and withdraw from spending time with family and friends if they are dabbing. These are other social signs:

• Secretive behavior
• New friends who use drugs
• Decreased interest in hobbies

Behavioral Changes

A person may change the way they act when they are using marijuana and dabbing. These behavioral changes can include:

• Trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much
• Poor academic or work performance
• Weight loss or gain as a result of altered eating habits
• Lack of motivation

In addition to the behavioral, social, and physical red flags, there are other things that can signal someone is dabbing. If you find drug paraphernalia such as torches or containers, you may want to investigate. Any strong odors are also a red flag because dabs have a distinct, pungent odor. This is usually described as a skunky smell.

Staying vigilant of these signs can help detect a drug problem earlier so that treatment can be found.

Seeking Help for a Marijuana Addiction

If you or a loved one has an addiction to marijuana, help is available. Explore early treatment options to help with addiction.