Cannabis extracts are taking the spotlight and for good reason. Whether it’s rosin, bubble hash, or live resin, concentrates offer a powerful, flavorful, and efficient way to enjoy cannabis. As interest grows, more cultivators and home growers are exploring how to create their own extracts. But there’s one key element that makes or breaks the final product: genetics.
In this guide, we’ll break down what cannabis extraction is, the most common extraction methods, and which strains give you the best results.
What Is Cannabis Extraction?
Cannabis extraction is the process of separating the most desirable compounds—cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes—from the rest of the plant material. The goal is to create a potent, clean, and flavorful concentrate that highlights the best qualities of the plant.
There are two main extraction categories:
- Solventless extraction (no chemicals): rosin, dry sift, bubble hash
- Solvent-based extraction (uses substances like butane or ethanol): BHO, live resin, shatter, etc.
Each method requires different tools, but they all rely on one essential element: quality genetics.
Common Types of Extracts
Rosin
Rosin is a clean, solventless extract made by pressing cannabis between heated plates under high pressure. It’s quick, safe, and perfect for small batches.
Dry Sift / Kief
This mechanical method involves gently agitating dried cannabis over a screen to separate the trichomes. The result is a golden, powdery resin rich in THC.
Ice Water Hash / Bubble Hash
Trichomes are knocked off the buds in cold water, then filtered through micron bags. This process creates high-quality, full-melt hash when done right.
Live Resin / BHO
Made using solvents like butane, BHO is known for its high terpene content and strong effects. Live resin uses fresh-frozen plants to preserve maximum aroma and potency.
What Makes a Good Extraction Strain?
- Trichome density: More visible resin glands = more yield
- Resin production: Sticky, oily buds are perfect for pressing and hashing
- Terpene profile: Rich, flavorful strains create more aromatic extracts
- Flower structure: Dense, chunky buds often contain more resin
- Genetic consistency: Reliable results across multiple plants and grows
“You can’t turn a mediocre plant into a great extract. It all starts with the genetics.” — Pyramid Seeds expert
Best Strains by Extraction Method
Recommended by Pyramid Seeds growers and extractors
Best for Rosin (Solventless Pressing)
| Strain | Description |
|---|---|
| Cookies USA | High in THC and resin, with a sweet, earthy profile |
| Purple Urkle | Known for its sticky purple trichomes and floral notes |
| Lemon Larry OG | Citrus-heavy, with great yield and clarity when pressed |
Best for Dry Sift / Kief
| Strain | Description |
|---|---|
| Tutankhamon | Covered in oversized glands perfect for sifting |
Tutankhamon x Gorila Glue | One of our frostiest strains, great return and potency |
| Anesthesia | Resin-rich and powerful, ideal for kief and pressed hash |
Best for Ice Water Hash / Bubble Hash
| Strain | Description |
|---|---|
| Gorila | Versatile strain with high-quality trichome production |
| Super OG Kush | Classic hash strain with dense resin heads |
| Kryptonite | Sticky and fragrant, performs well in cold water extractions |
Best for Live Resin / BHO
| Strain | Description |
|---|---|
| Lemon Larry OG | Bright citrus terps and oily flowers |
| Gorila | Consistently high-yielding and flavorful |
| American Pie | Unique balance of sweetness and spice, great for live resin |
Gorila in Full Frost Mode
"This is exactly what we mean when we say ‘built for extraction.’ Gorila never disappoints — just look at those resin-soaked trichomes. A true champion when it comes to returns, potency, and bag appeal."
— Pyramid Seeds Team
Recommended: Curious about the best of both worlds? Discover our exclusive Gold Line collection, where European stability meets American power.
FAQ: Cannabis Extraction and Choosing the Right Strain
- Q: Can I use any strain for extraction?
- A: Yes, but results will vary. Strains bred for high resin and terpene content will always perform better in terms of flavor, yield, and consistency.
- Q: What’s better: solventless or solvent-based?
- A: It depends on your goal. Solventless extracts like rosin and bubble hash are cleaner and simpler. Solvent-based options like BHO and live resin offer higher yields and more terpene retention, but require special equipment and safety protocols.
- Q: When should I harvest for extraction?
- A: For dry extracts (rosin, sift, hash), harvest when trichomes are fully developed (mostly cloudy with some amber). For live resin, freeze plants immediately after harvest without drying.
- Q: Do extraction-friendly strains grow differently?
- A: Many do. They tend to be more resinous, aromatic, and require gentle handling to preserve trichomes.
- Q: Can I store buds before extraction?
- A: Yes. For dry methods, cure them as usual in glass jars. For live resin or fresh-frozen extractions, freeze buds immediately after harvest to preserve terpenes.
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