Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound derived from the hemp variety of the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it popular for wellness research. While many consumers are familiar with CBD oils and capsules, CBD shatter is a specialized product for those seeking the highest concentration. This unique substance is a cannabis concentrate, representing a highly purified and potent form of the cannabinoid.
Defining CBD Shatter
CBD shatter is a highly concentrated form of cannabidiol extract, recognized by its brittle, glass-like appearance. Its name comes from its tendency to “shatter” into small, translucent pieces when handled, similar to glass. This solid form is typically amber or light yellow, depending on the refinement process.
Shatter is defined by its extreme purity, often containing 90% or more CBD by weight. This high concentration is achieved by removing plant material, waxes, and lipids from the initial extract. Its consistency differentiates it from other concentrates, such as CBD wax or crumble, which have softer or more granular textures.
While some CBD shatter is made from pure CBD isolate, other varieties are full or broad-spectrum. These retain a small complement of terpenes and minor cannabinoids. The retention of these compounds can contribute to the “entourage effect,” where plant components work together to enhance the overall benefit.
How CBD Shatter is Made
The production of CBD shatter begins with extracting cannabinoids from dried hemp biomass. Manufacturers typically use solvent-based methods, such as supercritical carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)) or hydrocarbon solvents like butane or propane. This yields a concentrated oil rich in CBD, along with other compounds and unwanted plant waxes.
To achieve high purity and stability, the crude oil undergoes post-extraction refinement. A purification step called winterization involves mixing the extract with ethanol and chilling it. This cooling causes undesirable fats and waxes to solidify, allowing them to be filtered out.
The final solvent removal, or purging, is critical for achieving the shatter texture. The concentrated oil is spread into a thin layer and placed into a vacuum oven. Low heat and a high-vacuum environment effectively remove residual solvents. This meticulous purging and cooling process, done without agitation, results in the translucent, brittle structure of shatter.
Methods for Consumption
CBD shatter is most commonly consumed through dabbing due to its high concentration and solid form. This technique requires specialized equipment, typically a dab rig, which resembles a water pipe with a heating element called a nail or banger. The user heats the nail with a torch or electronic heater to a temperature range between approximately 315°F and 600°F.
A small portion of the shatter, called a “dab,” is placed onto the heated surface using a dab tool. The intense heat instantaneously vaporizes the concentrate, creating a potent vapor that is inhaled. This method delivers a large dose of CBD directly to the bloodstream through the lungs, resulting in a rapid onset of effects faster than ingestible products.
Shatter can also be used with specialized concentrate vaporizer pens, which heat the concentrate without a torch for convenience. Additionally, it can be broken down and mixed with dried hemp flower in a pipe or joint, or melted into carrier oils for homemade edibles.
Legal Status and Purity Concerns
The legality of CBD shatter in the United States is determined by its source and THC content. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived products are federally legal if they contain no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Since shatter is highly concentrated, it must be extracted from compliant hemp to meet this federal threshold.
Purity is a significant concern because shatter results from intensive chemical processing. The manufacturing involves solvents like butane, propane, or ethanol, which must be fully removed during the purging stage. If purging is incomplete, residual solvents can remain in the final product, potentially posing a health risk.
Consumers should only purchase CBD shatter that has been subjected to rigorous third-party laboratory testing. Reputable companies provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. The COA confirms the product’s high CBD potency and verifies that it is free from harmful contaminants. This external testing ensures the shatter is compliant with the THC limit and clean of residual solvents, pesticides, and heavy metals.