What Is a Dab Reclaim? A Practical Guide to Collecting and Using It
Understanding Dab Reclaim
Dab reclaim is a byproduct of smoking cannabis, concentrates and extracts that can be reused to create a new product. It consists of the leftover wax and other smoking byproducts that recondense on the sides of your dab rig after a session. This substance can appear in various colors, including yellow, gold, brown, or black, and sometimes accumulates in your dab rig’s hot water can.
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Reclaim is a valuable byproduct because it still contains cannabinoids, including THC and CBN. In fact, some studies suggest that cannabis reclaim can have up to 60% THC, making it a viable option for those looking to maximize their concentrates without wasting any cannabis residue afterwards.
How Dab Reclaim Forms
Dab reclaim forms when the vaporized concentrate cools and condenses back into a solid form. Unlike ash or burnt residue, dab reclaim is still rich in cannabinoids, making it reusable. It primarily builds up in the following areas:
- Walls of the dab rig – When vaporized concentrate travels through the rig, some of it condenses and sticks to the walls.
- Inside the banger or nail – Residue left from dabbing sessions can accumulate over time.
- Water chamber – Some reclaim settles in the rig’s water, though this is less desirable due to potential contaminants.
Benefits of Collecting Reclaim
| Benefit | Description | Why It’s Useful | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost-Efficient | Reclaim is leftover concentrate that can be reused instead of discarded. | Saves money by reducing the need to buy new dabs or extracts. | Reclaim is slightly degraded, so the experience may not be as flavorful as fresh concentrates. |
| High Potency | While slightly degraded, reclaim still contains cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and minor terpenes. | Can still produce strong effects, especially for experienced users. | Some terpenes may be lost, leading to a harsher taste. |
| Versatile Use | Can be smoked, vaped, or infused into edibles, tinctures, or topicals. | Maximizes the value of your concentrates with multiple consumption methods. | Best used in edibles or capsules rather than dabbing due to altered taste. |
| Already Decarboxylated | Reclaim has already been exposed to heat, activating THC and CBD. | Ideal for making edibles, as it doesn’t require further heating like raw cannabis. | Works well in butter, oils, or infused drinks, but may have a strong taste. |
| Easy to Collect | Reclaim naturally builds up in dab rigs and can be collected using simple tools. | Requires minimal effort—hot water, a dab tool, or alcohol can extract it. | Avoid contamination by collecting from a clean rig. |
| Stronger Effects in Edibles | Since reclaim has already been heated, it can be consumed directly in food. | Offers potent effects, making it great for high-THC edibles. | Dosing may be inconsistent since reclaim potency varies. |
| Works Well in Capsules | Reclaim can be placed into empty capsules for easy, mess-free consumption. | Ideal for medical cannabis users who need a discreet way to consume. | Effects may take longer to kick in compared to vaping or dabbing. |
| Reduces Waste | Instead of cleaning and throwing it away, reclaim can be repurposed effectively. | Encourages sustainability and maximizes concentrate usage. | Should only be collected from clean rigs to avoid contaminants. |
| Smooth Vaporization | When properly collected and reheated, reclaim can still provide a decent vapor experience. | Works well in vaporizers and dab pens as a backup option. | May produce a harsher vapor than fresh concentrates. |
| Can Be Used in Topicals | Reclaim can be infused into lotions, balms, or salves for skin application. | Useful for localized relief, such as joint pain or inflammation. | Works best when mixed with carrier oils like coconut oil. |
Many dabbers overlook the potential benefits of reclaim, discarding it instead of reusing it. However, collecting reclaim can offer several advantages:
Reduces Waste
Reusing reclaim same paper towel allows consumers to make the most of their used wax paper, and prevent unnecessary waste.
Contains Cannabinoids and Terpenes
Although reclaim and oil has a lower terpene profile than fresh cannabis flower concentrates, it still contains cannabinoids that provide psychoactive effects.
Can Be Used in Multiple Ways
Reclaim isn’t just for dabbing; it can also be used in edibles, tinctures, and topicals, offering a small amount of versatility in consumption.
Provides a Backup Option
For consumers who run out of their main cannabis extracts, cannabis reclaim them can serve as a temporary alternative before purchasing a new batch.
Collecting Dab Reclaim
Reclaim can be collected in several ways, depending on your dabbing process, rig setup and preferences. Below are the most effective methods to dabbing temperature collect reclaim:
Using a Reclaim Catcher
A reclaim catcher is a specialized tool designed to trap excess residue called reclaim before alcohol evaporates when it reaches the water in your rig. This makes it easier to extract and reuse the reclaim without additional cleaning steps.
Using a Drop-Down Adapter
A bottom drop down attachment top-down adapter extends the bottom pipe connection between your banger pipe and rig, allowing reclaim to accumulate in a separate chamber for easy collection.
A drop-down adapter extends the bottom pipe connection between your banger pipe and rig, allowing reclaim to accumulate in a separate chamber for easy collection.
Manually Extracting Reclaim
If you don’t have specialized tools, you can still collect reclaim the old-fashioned way:
- Step 1: Remove your banger and downstem from the rig (if removable).
- Step 2: Pour isopropyl alcohol (ISO) or grain alcohol into your dab rig.
- Step 3: Swirl and shake gently to loosen the reclaim.
- Step 4: Pour the alcohol and reclaim mixture into a heat-safe dish.
- Step 5: Use low heat (such as a hot plate) to evaporate the alcohol.
- Step 6: Allow the reclaim to dry for at least 24 hours before use.
Different Ways to Use Dab Reclaim
Once you’ve collected all the reclaim, there are multiple ways to use it, depending on your preference.
Dabbing Reclaim
Dabbing reclaim is one of the most common ways to make water pipe reuse it, but there are some considerations:
- Lower Quality: Reclaim has fewer terpenes, which may result in a different flavor and experience compared to fresh concentrates.
- Harsher Smoke: The combustion of reclaim can be harsh on your throat and lungs, so it’s advisable to use a carb cap and start with low temperatures.
Eating Reclaim (Edibles)
Unlike fresh concentrates, reclaim is already decarboxylated, meaning a few hours, it is activated and ready for consumption. To use reclaim in edibles:
- Add it to butter or oil before mixing it into recipes.
- Sprinkle it directly onto food (though the taste may be strong).
- Stir it into tea or coffee for a cannabis-infused drink.
Using Reclaim in Tinctures
Reclaim can be dissolved in high-proof alcohol to create a simple tincture that can be taken sublingually or added to drinks.
Making Topicals with Reclaim
Reclaim the oil can also be incorporated into DIY cannabis topicals by infusing it into lotions or balms for localized relief.
Health and Safety Considerations
| Consideration | Description | Why It’s Important | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potential Contaminants | Reclaim can contain residual impurities, burnt material, or dust from the dab rig. | Inhaling or ingesting contaminated reclaim may cause respiratory irritation or stomach discomfort. | Collect reclaim only from a clean rig and avoid reclaim that looks excessively dark or burnt. |
| Degraded Terpenes & Flavor | The heating process destroys most terpenes, affecting taste and aroma. | Results in a harsher, less flavorful experience compared to fresh concentrates. | Best used in edibles, capsules, or topicals rather than dabbing. |
| Lower Cannabinoid Potency | Some THC and CBD remain in reclaim, but at reduced potency. | The effects may not be as strong or well-balanced as fresh dabs. | Adjust your dosage accordingly—start with a smaller amount to test potency. |
| Harsher Smoke & Vapor | Reclaim produces a hotter, harsher vapor when smoked or dabbed. | Can cause throat irritation and coughing, especially for sensitive users. | Use low temperatures when dabbing reclaim to reduce harshness. |
| Residual Solvent Concerns | If your original concentrate contained residual solvents, some may remain in reclaim. | Inhaling excess solvents may pose health risks. | Only collect reclaim from high-quality concentrates that were properly purged. |
| Edibility & Digestibility | Since reclaim is already decarboxylated, it can be eaten directly or infused into edibles. | Provides an efficient way to use reclaim without further heating. | Mix with butter, coconut oil, or capsules for better absorption. |
| Bacteria & Mold Growth | If reclaim sits too long in a dirty rig, it can collect moisture and bacteria. | Ingesting or inhaling contaminated reclaim could lead to infections. | Clean your dab rig regularly and store reclaim in an airtight container. |
| Best Use for Topicals | Reclaim can be infused into lotions or balms for localized relief. | Avoids inhalation risks while still benefiting from cannabinoids. | Mix with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil for better skin absorption. |
| Proper Collection Methods | Methods like using hot water, alcohol, or reclaim catchers help collect cleaner reclaim. | Prevents excessive waste while ensuring quality. | Avoid overheating during collection to preserve cannabinoids. |
| Dosing Considerations | Reclaim’s potency is unpredictable, making precise dosing difficult. | Too much reclaim may lead to stronger effects than expected. | Start with a small amount, especially for edibles or capsules. |
1. Harshness on the Lungs
Due to its lower terpene content and exposure to high temperatures and heat, smoke reclaim it can be harsher on the throat and lungs compared to smoking or fresh dabs.
2. Potential Contaminants
Reclaim from dirty original to dab rig clean, rigs may pour hot water that contain residual solvents, dust, or bacteria, making it less safe for consumption. Always ensure that your dab rig is clean before collecting reclaim hot water.
3. Unpleasant Taste and Smell
Reclaim often has a burnt or bitter taste due to heat and the breakdown of terpenes. If using it in edibles, mixing it with strong flavors like chocolate or coffee can help mask the taste.
Best Practices for Storing and Using Reclaim
1. Store in an Airtight Container
Keep reclaim in a silicone or glass container to preserve its potency and prevent contamination.
2. Use a Reclaim Catcher
Investing in a reclaim catcher can make the collection process easier and more hygienic.
3. Clean Your Dab Rig Regularly
A clean rig helps maintain the purity of water pipe your reclaim and prevents excessive buildup that can affect flavor, potency and safety.
Final Thoughts on Dab Reclaim
Dab reclaim is a resourceful way to make the most of your cannabis concentrates, offering an alternative consumption method for those looking to extend their supply. While what is a dab reclaim often has its drawbacks, such as lower terpene content and potential harshness, it can still provide a potent experience when used correctly. Whether you choose to dab, eat, or create tinctures and topicals, dab reclaim safe and remains a valuable asset in the world of cannabis concentrates.
By following proper collection, storage, and usage techniques, you can safely and effectively incorporate reclaim into your cannabis routine while minimizing waste and maximizing your investment.
FAQs
1. Is dab reclaim safe to smoke?
Yes, but it can be harsher than fresh cannabis concentrates due to lower terpene content and exposure to high heat again.
2. Can you eat dab reclaim without cooking it?
Yes, reclaim is already decarboxylated, meaning it is activated and can be consumed directly.
3. Does reclaim get you high?
Yes, cannabis reclaim it still contains cannabinoids like THC and CBN, though the effects may be slightly different from fresh dabs.
4. How do I make reclaim taste better?
Mix it with strong flavors different textures like chocolate, coffee, or heavily seasoned dishes to mask its bitter taste.
5. How should I store reclaim?
Keep it in an airtight silicone or glass container in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency.
