Terp sauce is one of the many types of cannabis concentrates. More specifically, it’s a high-terpene full-spectrum extract (HTFSE). The concentrate consists of tiny crystals or diamonds in a syrupy liquid. The crystals are THCA, and the sauce is a terpene-rich sauce. While not as potent as some of the other concentrates on the market, it does contain more terpenes, which means more flavor.
The process for making terp sauce starts with fresh frozen cannabis buds. Flash freezing the flowers preserves more of the terpenes, which are much more delicate than cannabinoids.
Next, a solvent (typically butane) passes over the plant material to pull out the cannabinoids and terpenes. A light purge with gentle heat helps to evaporate residual butane from the extract. The liquid then goes into jars, which get sealed and stored in a slightly higher than room temperature environment.
Over time, pressure builds in the jars, which causes the THCA crystals to form. They sink to the bottom as terpenes begin to rise to the surface. After two to three weeks, the terpenes and crystals are removed, separated, and purged. After a few days, they’re brought back together and packaged.
You can dab terp sauce as you do other concentrates. You add a small amount to your heated nail or banger and inhale the smoke. Some users recommend terp pearls, which can help you heat your sauce more efficiently.
As with any concentrate, one key thing to keep in mind is to start with a small amount. Although terp sauce isn’t as potent as some other concentrates like wax or shatter, it’s still more potent than flowers. You don’t want to go overboard, especially if it’s your first time dabbing or using concentrates. Any enjoyment you get from the taste of the sauce can quickly get ruined by the uncomfortable feeling of being too high.
The whole reason for using terp sauce is to enjoy the flavor of the terpenes. Dab rigs use high heat to vaporize a concentrate. If the nail or banger is too hot, though, you risk destroying these delicate compounds. The ideal temperature range for dabbing ranges between 315°F to 600°F. Sticking to the lower end of the spectrum (315° to 450°) can help to preserve more of the terpenes, giving you the most flavorful hits.
Dabbing is a great way to get stronger hits using very little product. Some concentrates, however, don’t have much of a taste. With terp sauce, you get it all. In addition to a more potent high, you get an incredible burst of flavor.
If you prefer your cannabis products to have flavor, terp sauce is definitely worth investigating. Ask a budtender the next time you drop by the shop.