Dabbing Meaning: Understanding The Cannabis Term

The rise of dabbing – a highly concentrated form of marijuana consumption – has become a growing concern for healthcare providers and addiction specialists. This method of using cannabis involves vaporizing potent extracts known as “dabs,” which can contain THC levels many times higher than traditional marijuana. Understanding dabbing’s intense effects on both body and mind is important, as this consumption method can lead to significantly stronger psychological and physical impacts than conventional cannabis use.

What Are Dabs?

Dabs are concentrated forms of cannabis made by extracting THC and other cannabinoids using solvents like butane or carbon dioxide.[1] These extractions result in sticky, wax-like substances that can go by various names, including wax, shatter, budder, and BHO (butane hash oil). Unlike traditional cannabis flowers, which typically contain 15 to 25 percent THC, dabs can contain up to 40 to 90 percent THC concentration, making them significantly more potent.[2]

This extreme potency means users can experience intense effects from a very small amount — often described as “dabbing” because only a dab-sized portion is needed. The appearance and consistency of dabs can vary greatly depending on the extraction method and quality, ranging from a honey-like amber substance to a harder, translucent material similar to glass.

What is the Purpose of Dabbing?

People typically turn to dabbing when seeking a more intense and immediate high than what traditional cannabis methods provide. The extremely concentrated nature of dabs means users can achieve powerful effects with a single hit, making it appealing to those who have developed a high tolerance to regular marijuana.

Some people report using dabs for perceived medical benefits, as the concentrated form can provide faster relief from symptoms like chronic pain or nausea. However, the intensified effects and higher THC concentration also come with increased risks: the potency of dabs can lead to stronger physical and psychological effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and rapid heart rate.[3] Additionally, regular dabbing can quickly build tolerance and potentially lead to dependency issues, making it particularly concerning from a medical perspective.

What Are the Effects of Dabbing?

Due to the high concentration of THC in dabs, you’ll experience more intense effects than traditional marijuana use. Immediate effects can include an overwhelming euphoric rush, intense relaxation, altered perception of time, and heightened sensory experiences.[4] You may also encounter side effects like rapid heartbeat, severe anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, or blackouts, particularly if you’re new to dabbing or using too much. The intensity of these effects can feel overwhelming even for experienced cannabis users.

Physical effects often include dry mouth, bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, and impaired coordination.[5] Since dabs deliver such concentrated doses, you’re at higher risk for developing tolerance and experiencing withdrawal symptoms like irritability, sleep problems, and mood changes when you stop using. The potency of dabs also means you have a higher risk of experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis or panic attacks compared to traditional marijuana consumption methods.

Regular dabbing can impact your daily life, affecting your memory, motivation, and concentration. Due to the intense nature of dabbing and its aftereffects, you might struggle with work or school performance, relationships, or maintaining regular activities.

How Common is Dabbing?

In a survey of over 4,000 cannabis consumers from a 2018 study, 58 percent reported trying dabs at least once, while 36.5 percent used dabs regularly (defined as once a month or more).[6] Those who regularly used dabs were likelier to report experimentation and curiosity as their primary motivation. However, when people sought relief from specific issues like anxiety, sleep problems, or emotional coping, they typically preferred traditional cannabis flowers over dabs.

Notably, regular dab users expressed more concern about their cannabis use compared to occasional dab users.

Can Cannabis Use Become Problematic?

While some people use cannabis without significant issues, others can go on to develop cannabis use disorder, a condition recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).[7] You may be struggling with cannabis if you experience symptoms such as needing more of the drug to get the same effect, spending significant time obtaining or using cannabis, continuing to use despite negative consequences, or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop. The concentrated nature of dabs can make people particularly vulnerable to developing cannabis use disorder due to the intense exposure to THC.

Cannabis use often occurs alongside other mental health conditions as well, known as co-occurring disorders.[8] You might use cannabis to cope with anxiety, depression, or PTSD, but this can worsen these conditions over time. Similarly, many people who struggle with problematic cannabis use also experience issues with other substances like alcohol or prescription medications. The presence of these co-occurring disorders can complicate recovery and may require specialized treatment approaches.

If you find yourself using cannabis despite negative impacts on your relationships, work, or daily functioning, or if you’ve tried to cut back but can’t, these are important signs to address. The high potency of dabs can accelerate the development of these issues compared to traditional cannabis use.

What Can I Do To Get Help?

If you’re concerned about your cannabis use, you can take several steps toward getting support. At Alpas Wellness, we start with a confidential assessment to understand your unique situation and create a personalized treatment plan. You might benefit from outpatient counseling, where you’ll work with experienced therapists who specialize in substance use and mental health concerns.

Your primary care doctor can be a good first point of contact, as they can provide referrals to addiction specialists and help manage any withdrawal symptoms you might experience. Many people find that a combination of individual therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes works best for their recovery journey.

Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not of weakness. Whether you’re struggling with dabbing specifically or cannabis use in general, evidence-based treatment can help you develop healthier coping strategies and work toward your personal goals. You can also explore free support groups in your community or contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline for confidential assistance 24/7.