Mixing terpenes with concentrate is a worthwhile practice. One may do it to create more potent solutions while another might be looking to craft a unique blend of aromas. Whatever the purpose, knowing how to effectively mix terpenes with concentrates is crucial to achieving their full therapeutic effects.
As such, terpene enthusiasts should consider a few things before throwing terpenes and concentrates into a container together. Note that the process requires specific tools and careful measurements.
This article will discuss how to add terpenes to concentrates.
What are Concentrates?
Concentrates are a form of flower extract that has retained some of the plant’s naturally occurring terpenes. Specific extraction methods help preserve the terpenes in the final product, making it more flavorful and aromatic. The product’s high terpene content also allows the user to experience more of the terpene’s therapeutic effects that typically come with these compounds.
Why Mix Terpenes with Concentrates?
Terpenes are inherently delicate. No matter how exact the extraction process is, the flower will inevitably lose some of its quality.
In fact, even before the extraction method begins, its quality can already diminish. The quality of the soil used, the weather, and how the plant was farmed also affect the potency of the final product.
This is why many enthusiasts mix terpenes with concentrates — to replenish some of that lost quality. Adding concentrate to terpenes can help amplify the terpenes’ therapeutic effects. In particular, mixing the two can help the user feel more energized to start the day or relax to end one, depending on the time the user consumes the solution.
Materials for Mixing Terpenes with Concentrates
Mixing terpenes with concentrates is easy with the help of a few materials:
- Syringe
- Pipette
- Scale (a more sensitive scale may work better since the weights in question are small)
- Mixing container
- Mixing tool
- Heating source
- Rubber gloves
- Safety glasses
- Diluents and carriers (optional)
Mixing Terpenes with Concentrates: A Step-by-Step Guide
While mixing terpenes and concentrates is a straightforward process, following the steps below can help make the process much smoother. Being gentle in handling the terpenes and concentrates can also help avoid any loss of quality or potency.
1. Choose a terpene
The type of terpenes to use can be similar to the strain the user wants to enjoy or a different one altogether. While the choices of terpene products are endless, the user’s preference should ultimately prevail.
2. Consider safety measures
Since terpenes are highly concentrated, they tend to be flammable and volatile. This is why taking the necessary safety precautions before mixing is highly advised. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and safety glasses for protection throughout the process.
Given how flammable terpenes are, it is also advisable not to smoke, use open flames, or have significant heat sources around the mixing area. Moreover, it’s best to conduct the procedure in a well-ventilated area. Have a designated eye washing station and a fire extinguisher nearby, as well, in case of any accidents.
3. Start with a small amount
Experimental mixtures do not necessarily produce a flavorful taste. In most cases, they offer no guarantee of being flavorful. As such, mixing an entire supply of concentrates and terpenes may lead to a wasted batch, especially if the user is unfamiliar with the process.
A good rule of thumb is to start with small amounts of terpenes and concentrates. This “small batch testing” can help assess which mixtures work and which ones do not. While “correct” mixtures are not entirely possible, small batch testing can help create one’s desired potency.
4. Mix in terpenes
Concentrates tend to be sticky and viscous upon purchasing. To get them into their best consistency before mixing them with terpenes, heat the concentrates in a container to about 50°-80°C or until they become more fluid.
Once the temperature is achieved and the concentrates’ consistency is less thick, add the terpenes into the container. Quickly close the container to avoid evaporation. Then, shake it to mix the substances.
The recommended dilution ratio is 1% to 15%. This means for every 1 gram of concentrate, the recommended amount of terpenes to use is 0.01 to 0.15g. Again, the ideal ratio will depend on the user’s preference. If the mixture is too potent, use diluents — such as carrier oils or emulsifiers — to neutralize the solution.
Once the mixture is completely mixed, it can be dispensed. If it will be stored for later use, the contents should be cooled quickly if possible. Avoid putting cold water on hot glass. Bathwater at room temperature can be utilized to cool down the contents faster.
5. Enjoy
After mixing, quickly transfer the mixture into a container before it cools down to avoid oxidation and other variables that may reduce the solution’s quality. Finally, enjoy the mixture.
Mix and Match with High-Quality Terpenes
Mixing terpenes with concentrates can amplify the terpenes’ potency and therapeutic effects. As an enthusiast, you may be interested in this fun experiment. But when doing the process, be sure to have the proper materials and follow the steps discussed above to create an effective mixture and ensure your safety.
If you’re new to mixing terpenes and concentrates, it’s in your best interest to start with high-quality terpenes. For top-quality and 100% organic terpenes, check out Medical Terpenes. We have a wide array of terpene products ranging from oil-soluble flavors to flavored blends!
