Posted on August 19, 2023 by Munchies

When it comes to cannabis edibles, gummies reign supreme. But how do you choose between live resin gummies and regular distillate gummies? This blog breaks down the differences between these two gummies, highlighting their effects, flavors, and dosages. Whether after a potent high or a more balanced experience, we have the insights to help you pick the perfect gummy for your needs. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways 

  • Terpene Content – Live resin gummies contain natural terpenes from fresh cannabis plants, providing a richer, fuller experience, while regular gummies often lack these terpenes unless added back during processing.
  • Effects – Live resin gummies offer a milder, more balanced high due to the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes work together. Regular gummies tend to produce a stronger, quicker high with a more direct THC impact.
  • Taste – Live resin gummies typically have a richer, more complex flavor, thanks to their preserved terpenes. In contrast, distillate gummies may have a more neutral taste, with added flavors to mask the extract.
  • Dosage – Distillate gummies are easier to dose due to their precise cannabinoid concentrations. Live resin gummies can have varying levels of cannabinoids, making it harder to gauge dosage.
  • Onset Time – Live resin gummies often kick in faster than regular gummies, typically within 30 minutes to an hour, though the onset time can still depend on individual tolerance and dosage.

Edibles, particularly gummies, are a popular way to consume cannabis, and when it comes to gummies, there’s often debate between live resin gummies and regular gummies. Both have unique qualities and appeal, with enthusiasts swearing by the benefits of each. The cannabis community is essentially split between these two types, and choosing the right one can depend on your preferences and what kind of experience you’re after.

What Are Regular (Distillate) Gummies?

Regular (distillate) gummies and live resin gummies are both popular cannabis edibles, but they are made from different extraction processes and offer distinct experiences. Regular distillate gummies are infused with distilled THC or other cannabinoids that are extracted from dried and cured cannabis plants. 

During the extraction process, cannabinoids like THC are separated from the plant material, resulting in potent gummies. These gummies offer a strong, direct high due to the concentration of cannabinoids, but they may lack the complex flavor profile of fresh cannabis.

How are Distillate Gummies Made?

Distillate gummies are made using a specific cannabinoid, often THC. In this case, cannabis plants are dried and cured, and the cannabinoids are extracted through a heating process that isolates the desired cannabinoid. 

This concentrated oil is then infused into gummies, flavors, and other ingredients. Distillate gummies do not prioritize preserving terpenes and are often more focused on delivering a precise dosage of cannabinoids, making them easier to dose but with less emphasis on the full cannabis experience compared to live resin gummies.

What are Live Resin Gummies?

Live resin gummies are cannabis edibles infused with live resin, a concentrate made from fresh, frozen cannabis plants. Unlike other concentrates extracted from cured plants, live resin preserves the plant’s trichomes containing terpenes. 

This results in a more flavorful and potent gummy, with the added benefit of the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and terpenes work together to create a more well-rounded high. The use of fresh, frozen plants in making live resin ensures that the gummies have a rich, authentic cannabis experience, enhancing both flavor and effect.

How are Live Resin Gummies Made?

To make live resin gummies, the process starts with flash-freezing fresh cannabis plants to maintain the integrity of the trichomes and terpene profile. The next step is to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes using a solvent, typically propane or butane, which separates the compounds from the plant material. After this, the live resin oil is purged of any remaining solvent. The final step is infusing the live resin oil into gummies. This process requires specialized equipment and expertise, so it’s best left to professionals.

Distillate Gummies Vs. Live Resin Gummies

The main differences between live resin gummies and regular (distillate) gummies are their effects, taste, terpene content, and dosage.

Effects 

Live resin gummies provide a milder high than distillate gummies, but their higher terpene content offers a more balanced and “full” experience. This is thanks to the entourage effect, where the natural compounds in cannabis work together for a more harmonious effect. On the other hand, distillate gummies are often more potent due to the higher concentration of a single cannabinoid, making them ideal for those looking for a stronger, quicker high.

Taste 

Live resin gummies are typically richer in taste, as they preserve the full chemical profile of the cannabis plant. However, distillate gummies can have a more tailored taste, as flavors can be added to mask distillates’ less complex flavor profile. Anecdotal evidence suggests that many people prefer the taste of distillate gummies because of their sweet and familiar flavors.

Terpenes  

Live resin gummies are rich in terpenes (4% to 12%), which contribute to their distinct flavor and entourage effect. Distillate gummies, however, usually lack terpenes unless they are added back during the production process, leading to a more straightforward cannabinoid experience.

Dosage  

Distillate gummies have a more precise dosage due to the concentrated levels of cannabinoids in the distillate. This allows for easier dosing and predictability. In contrast, live resin gummies contain various compounds, which makes it harder to gauge an exact dosage. New users of either type should start with small doses and adjust based on their tolerance and experience.

Common Terpenes Found in Live Resin Gummies

Cannabis contains hundreds of terpenes, each with its unique effects. Here are some of the most popular terpenes found in live resin gummies and their potential benefits:

  • Alpha-humulene – Known for its potential anti-inflammatory and energizing properties, this terpene can help with physical discomfort and increase energy levels.
  • Caryophyllene – Found in rosemary, hops, and cloves, it has been associated with mood improvement and potential anti-anxiety effects.
  • Limonene – Often found in citrus fruits, limonene has calming properties that may help reduce stress and elevate mood.
  • Linalool – Known for its stress-relieving effects, linalool is commonly used in sleep and relaxation aids.
  • Myrcene – This sedating terpene is found in mangoes and is often used to promote relaxation, help with sleep, and fight bacteria and fungi.

Gummy FAQs

Are Live Resin Gummies Stronger Than Regular Gummies?

Live resin gummies are typically milder than regular distillate gummies due to their higher concentration of other cannabinoids and terpenes. While live resin gummies offer a more flavorful, well-rounded experience, regular gummies (especially those with Delta 9 THC) are generally stronger and deliver a faster, more intense high.

Do Live Resin Gummies Work Faster Than Regular Gummies?

Live resin gummies kick in faster than regular gummies, often within 30 minutes to an hour. However, individual tolerance and the dosage can still affect the onset time.

Are Live Resin Gummies Better Than Regular Gummies?

There’s no definitive answer here, as both types have their pros. If you’re looking for a full-spectrum, flavorful experience with a well-rounded high, live resin gummies are a great choice. However, for a stronger and quicker high, distillate gummies with Delta 9 THC might be your go-to. It all depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you seek.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing between live resin gummies and regular distillate gummies, the decision ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in your cannabis experience. Thanks to the natural terpenes and cannabinoids they preserve during extraction, live resin gummies offer a more nuanced, full-spectrum high, delivering a more rounded and flavorful experience. If you value potency a quick, more intense high, regular distillate gummies may be your better choice, as they tend to provide stronger effects with precise dosing.

Ultimately, both types of gummies have their place in the cannabis world, and it comes down to your individual preferences, desired effects, and experience level. Whether you prefer the more balanced, earthy high of live resin or the potent and fast-acting effects of distillate gummies, there’s no wrong choice—just the one that best suits your needs. So, experiment, enjoy, and find your perfect gummy match!

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (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.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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