A cannabis “dab” is a highly concentrated form of cannabis material, often appearing as a waxy solid, shatter, or oil. Dabs are primarily intended for vaporization and inhalation using a specialized rig or pen. These concentrates are created by extracting the cannabinoid and terpene-rich trichomes from the cannabis plant, resulting in a product with higher potency than traditional cannabis flower. While flower typically contains 15% to 25% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), dabs often range from 60% to 90% THC concentration. Consuming this material orally presents unique physiological circumstances, depending entirely on whether the concentrate has been chemically activated.
Why Decarboxylation is Critical
The cannabis plant produces cannabinoids in an acidic form, meaning that a raw dab contains primarily tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) rather than the psychoactive THC. THCA has an extra carboxyl group in its chemical structure, which prevents it from effectively binding to the body’s cannabinoid receptors to produce the intoxicating effect. Consuming raw concentrate material will likely result in a highly muted or non-existent psychoactive experience.
The process that converts non-intoxicating THCA into psychoactive delta-9-THC is called decarboxylation, which occurs when cannabis is heated. This reaction removes the carboxyl group, which is why heat is applied when dabbing, smoking, or baking concentrates into edibles. Unless the concentrate was accidentally or intentionally heated beforehand, eating a raw dab bypasses this necessary activation step. If the dab was already activated—such as a product like RSO or distillate—the experience changes dramatically.
The Intense Effects of Oral Concentrate Ingestion
If the concentrate has been decarboxylated, consuming it orally introduces an extreme dose of activated THC into the digestive system. A single gram of concentrate, which may contain 600 to 900 milligrams of THC, represents dozens of typical 10-milligram edible servings. This high concentration is metabolized differently than inhaled THC.
When swallowed, the THC travels through the stomach and is processed by the liver, known as first-pass metabolism. The liver converts a significant portion of the delta-9-THC into a metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is significantly more potent than delta-9-THC and crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently.
This metabolic pathway causes a delayed onset, with effects typically not felt for 30 minutes up to two hours after ingestion. Once the effects begin, they are more intense, producing a powerful body sensation and heightened psychological effects compared to other consumption methods. The duration of the experience is extended, lasting anywhere from six to twelve hours.
Managing Acute Adverse Reactions
Ingesting a massive dose of activated concentrate can lead to acute cannabis toxicity, or what is commonly described as an overdose. Though a fatal overdose is not a concern, the experience can be distressing and overwhelming. Symptoms of an adverse reaction can include severe paranoia, extreme anxiety, panic attacks, rapid heart rate (tachycardia), and intense nausea or vomiting.
In the event of an adverse reaction, supportive care in a safe, calm environment is the primary strategy. It is helpful to remain hydrated and avoid attempting to drive or operate heavy machinery. Finding a quiet, comfortable space and reminding oneself that the physical and psychological effects will eventually subside is the most effective non-medical intervention.
If symptoms include unmanageable, persistent vomiting, a rapid or irregular heart rate, or confusion, professional medical attention should be sought immediately. Though such reactions are rare, medical personnel can provide supportive treatments to manage severe anxiety and monitor cardiovascular symptoms until the concentration of THC and its metabolites in the bloodstream naturally decreases.