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Product Knowledge

Introductory information for all of our product categories - Flower, Concentrates, Edibles & Vapes
By Admin
• 12 articles

Cannabis Concentrates: Intro to Shatter

Shatter is a cannabis extract with a solid yet brittle consistency. Though translucent, shatter can range in colour from dark yellow to amber to olive oil, and different shatter can vary from glass-like to snap-and-pull in consistency. Shatter gets its name from its ability to break like broken glass. It requires long, delicate purging cycles to remove all solvents used in the manufacturing process. Kootenay Botanicals carries many premium-grade shatter products and other concentrates like hash, cannabis oil, distillate, and wax. Benefits of Shatter: The main benefit of using shatter is how fast it kicks in when you dab it, triggering an almost instantaneous effect. Shatter is a potent extract that ranges between 50% and 90% THC, which means that users don’t need to use a lot of it or inhale the vapor for long to get high. Shatter offers more potent and terpene-rich flavors and aromas than smoking flower, and it’s easy to handle while dabbing. Not only does it work fast, you get to enjoy cannabis concentrates without having to smoke it. With this in mind, you may also like our THC Vape Pens. How to Use Shatter: Simply dab it the way you would other cannabis concentrates. To start dabbing, preheat the nail with a propane or butane torch until you attain the optimum temperature. Drop a small portion of the concentrate to the nail using the tapered end of your dabber. The shatter will vaporize the moment it comes into contact with the hot nail. Cover the nail with a cap to capture the vapor then inhale it at the other end of the rig.

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025

Cannabis Flower: How to Store Cannabis & Keep It Fresh

How to Preserve Weed and Keep it Fresh Knowing how to keep cannabis fresh is more of an art than using sandwich bags. While there is no fixed expiration date for cannabis, here are a few things to consider when storing it for long periods. Light In the same manner that harsh ultraviolet rays make paint fade over time, constant light exposure burns the cannabinoid and terpene compounds in your cannabis plant and buds. Seasoned cannabis enthusiasts keep weed in opaque containers, away from any direct light sources. Air Oxygen is another significant factor that affects the shelf life of cannabis. Too much oxygen speeds up decomposition, while too little encourages the growth of mould and mildew. Vacuum-sealing is often the most effective solution, but airtight jars and containers are the next best thing. The container for your cannabis should also be the right size. Even without air circulating inside of it, a container that’s too large may store too much oxygen and facilitate the deterioration of the contents quickly. A container that’s too small may result in too much humidity entering the substance and quickly result in mouldy buds. Ideally, you should store your cannabis in containers with not much room to spare but without overcrowding. Moisture Moulds and mildew thrive heartily on humidity, but this is not the only threat to your high. Buds that are too dry may also cause terpenes and cannabinoids to break down faster, diluting the results. Cannabis should be stored between 59 and 63 RH. To maintain this balance, we recommend using humidifier packs, like Boveda or Integra. These packs are designed to absorb and discharge moisture based on the humidity in the air, keeping the containment at optimum levels.

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025

Cannabis Vapes: The Basics

Cannabis vapes are devices that heat up cannabis concentrates until the active compounds turn into vapor, which is then inhaled. The THC in the vape pen is what gets you high, and vape pens have become very popular because they’re easy to use, discreet, and don’t smell like weed- making them perfect for using at home, on your lunch break, or whenever you need a quick dose of THC. From disposable vapes to vape kits and refill cartridges, we’ve got you covered for all of your THC vaping needs. You can find CBD Vapes here. If you’re new to vaping, we highly recommend (pun intended!) a disposable vape or vape kit. They’re ready to go right out of the box and come with everything you need. Benefits of Vaping THC & CBD: What’s great about vapes (THC) is that they deliver a heightened experience with significantly fewer side effects to smoking and are much easier on the lungs. Vape pens are also small and portable. You can carry them anywhere in your pocket or handbag without a fuss. Best of all, they come fully charged, so you don’t have to run around looking for chargers. They are available in disposable or re-usable pens, both with the ability to recharge. How to Use a Disposable Vape Pen: Most vape pens come ready to use straight out of the box, and many are activated by inhalation. Other vape pens will have a small button that you press as you inhale. If you have a vape that uses refill cartridges, simply remove the rubber seal at the bottom of the cartridge and connect it to your battery. Start with a small puff then wait for a couple of minutes between puffs to see its effects. Ensure your pen is fully charged and turned on.

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025

Disposable Vape Troubleshooting

We've gone ahead and gathered all the essential info you need to know about disposable vape devices! 3 Gram Disposable Vapes Some 3-gram vapes will come working out of the box as the battery is still charged -- others may require a bit of a charge. You can charge your vape using a regular USB C-type charger, typically used for Android phones. To turn on or activate your 3-gram vape, you will need to press the power button five times quickly. Then, you will be able to tell that it is powered on when the light flashes three times. 2 Gram Disposable Vapes Most 2-gram vapes will come already charged, while others may require charging. Use any micro-USB cord to charge your 2-gram device! When the pen is charging, it'll light up. When this stops, then you'll know your pen is fully charged and ready to use! Suggestions for Clogged Vapes If your vape feels clogged when you try to pull from it, we recommend rubbing the pen between your palms to heat it up. Once it's warm, you can try another pull and see if that helps release things. Alternatively, you can heat it with a hair dryer for more aggressive warming. Be careful, though, as this can get things quite hot! So be cautious with your approach if you choose this method. Vape Oil Levels Vapes can contain from 1, 2, to 3 grams of product. However, they have the capacity to hold more. Vapes are filled by weight - rather than visual volume. So while they may look to vary, it's often the result of viscosity differences between the oils as each strain/batch produces differing consistencies. Air Bubbles Don't panic! Air bubbles are completely normal, and not a sign that there is an issue with the oil, or that there is less oil! There are a whole variety of factors that may lead to air bubbles forming, but the oil is totally safe to consume!

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025

Indica / Sativa / Hybrid - what is the difference?

Understanding Different Types of Cannabis Strains Cannabis plants can be cultivated to contain different levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These two compounds act together to produce the effects of cannabis, although THC is the primary psychoactive component. Different cultivars of cannabis have different ratios of THC to CBD and this influences the overall effects of the strain. In addition to different ratios of THC and CBD, cannabis strains are also categorized according to by the type of cannabinoid-dominant plant they come from. There are three main classifications of cannabis according to plant type: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Let’s take a look at each one. Indica Strains Indica strains are more relaxing and usually associated with more bodily sensations (“body stone”). These strains are often recommended for nighttime use and are very often used for pain management and as a sleep aid. Sativa Strains Sativa strains usually come with a cerebral feeling. Traditionally, Sativa strains are more uplifting and euphoric and are recommended for daytime use. Hybrid Strains Hybrid strains occur when expert breeders select the best Sativa and Indica strains and crossbreed them. Hybrids are frequently bred with other hybrids and can be Sativa or Indica dominant. So, depending on the dominant strain, they will have similar effects to their dominant strain. When choosing the right strain for you, it’s important to know the characteristics of each type. Experienced cannabis users often choose different types of cannabis to produce different effects. You may find that a Sativa dominant hybrid gives you just the right combination of effects, or perhaps an Indica strain is best for you. Those new to cannabis or those just looking for relief should also consider the recommended use and effects of each strain in order to make the best choice of cannabis. Joints, blunts, and bowls are just some of the many ways to enjoy cannabis. Finding your favorite strain or type of cannabis is part of the journey, so enjoy the process and find out which type is right for you. ​Find out more about indica, sativa, and hybrids.

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its well-known counterpart tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a "high" or intoxication. This makes CBD an attractive option for those who are seeking relief from pain and other symptoms without the mind-altering effects of marijuana or certain pharmaceutical drugs. CBD has been shown to have a range of potential health benefits, including: 1. Pain relief: CBD has been shown to be effective in reducing chronic pain, including neuropathic pain and pain associated with conditions like arthritis. 2. Anxiety and depression relief: CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant effects, making it a potential treatment option for those with anxiety and depression disorders. 3. Anti-inflammatory properties: CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment option for conditions like multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other inflammatory conditions. 4. Anti-seizure properties: CBD has been shown to have anti-convulsant properties, making it a potential treatment option for epilepsy and other seizure disorders. 5. Neuroprotective properties: CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which may make it a potential treatment option for conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders. 6. Anti-nausea properties: CBD has been shown to have anti-nausea properties, making it a potential treatment option for those undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments that can cause nausea. 7. Anti-psychotic properties: CBD has been shown to have anti-psychotic properties, making it a potential treatment option for conditions like schizophrenia. CBD can be consumed in a variety of ways, including through oils, tinctures, edibles, and topical creams. It is also available in different strengths and formulations, making it easy to customize a CBD regimen to fit individual needs and preferences. Overall, CBD has the potential to be a safe and effective treatment option for a range of medical conditions. It is also important to note that CBD should not be used as a replacement for other medical treatments without consulting a healthcare provider. If you are considering using CBD for a medical condition, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider first to determine if it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs and circumstances. ​Find out more about Cannabinoids.

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025

What is THC and CBD?

The Differences Between THC and CBD Cannabis is well-known for its various cannabinoid compounds, two of the most significant being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Understanding the differences between these two compounds is key to make informed decisions about the use of cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes. THC THC is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, and is responsible for the "high" that is commonly associated with cannabis use. It works by binding to receptors in the brain and central nervous system, leading to changes in perception, mood, and behavior. Additionally, THC has been found to have pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and immune system regulating effects. It may also help to regulate sleep and appetite. CBD CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and does not produce the same "high" as THC. It works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate a range of physiological processes such as pain, inflammation, and immune system function. Additionally, CBD has been found to have potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as anxiety, depression, epilepsy, and chronic pain. The Entourage Effect It's important to note that while THC and CBD are different, they can also work synergistically when taken together. This is known as the "entourage effect", and may enhance the therapeutic potential of both compounds. Conclusion In summary, while THC and CBD are both cannabinoids found in cannabis, they differ in their psychoactive effects and potential therapeutic properties. Understanding the differences between them can help to make informed decisions about cannabis use, both for recreational and medicinal purposes. ​ Find out more about Cannabinoids.

Last updated on Dec 12, 2025