Live resin and distillate are cannabis concentrates and they’re produced using different extraction methods. The difference comes down to how they’re extracted — and what compounds remain in the final product.
What Is Distillate?
Distillate is a highly refined cannabis extract typically produced using ethanol extraction followed by distillation.
The process involves:
● Extracting cannabinoids from cannabis using ethanol
● Refining the extract through distillation
● Isolating cannabinoids like THC or CBD
● Removing most other compounds, including terpenes
Result: A purified cannabinoid extract with a minimal terpene content, and a neutral and flavourless base. Its neutral profile makes distillate a commonly used ingredient in edibles because it’s flavourless.
What Is Live Resin?
Live resin is made using fresh frozen cannabis plants and extracted using hydrocarbon extraction (typically butane or propane).
The process involves:
● Freezing the cannabis immediately after harvest
● Extracting at low temperatures using hydrocarbons
● Preserving cannabinoids and terpenes together
Result: A higher terpene retention with a broader range of cannabinoids and compounds. A less refined extract compared to distillate. “Full-spectrum” refers— multiple cannabinoids and terpenes present together, rather than isolated.
Live Resin vs Distillate: Key Differences
Distillate
● Ethanol extraction + distillation
● Highly refined
● Focused on isolated cannabinoids
● Minimal terpene content
● Flavourless
Live Resin
● Hydrocarbon extraction (butane/propane)
● Made from fresh frozen plants
● Retains cannabinoids and terpenes together
● Higher terpene content
● Broader compound profile
Why Extraction Matters
Extraction determines what compounds are retained in the final product.
● Distillate isolates cannabinoids and removes most other compounds
● Live resin preserves a wider range of compounds from the plant
This difference in composition is what separates the two.
Rilaxe Edibles
Rilaxe uses both extract types across its edible lineup. Most Rilaxe edibles are made using distillate — providing a clean, flavourless base that allows the product’s intended flavour profile to come through.
Spicy Firecrackerz 2:1 (Quebec Exclusive)
● Distillate-based
● 2:1 cannabinoid ratio
● Bold, spicy flavour profile
Rilaxe Live Resin Edibles Rilaxe has also introduced live resin into its edible lineup.
Blue Memberries Live Resin Multipack
● 20-pack format
● 100mg THC total
● Made with live resin
This format uses live resin to retain more of the plant’s original compound profile within an edible format.
Final Thoughts
Distillate and live resin are defined by how they’re extracted. Distillate is refined to isolate cannabinoids. Live resin is extracted to preserve more of the plant’s compounds. Both serve different roles depending on the intended product.
Any questions? Please say hello at info@rilaxe.ca
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