If you’ve ever read five explanations and still thought “…okay but what does that actually mean?” — this one’s for you.

Distillate

The ultra-refined option

Distillate starts as cannabis or hemp, then gets processed down to basically just THC or CBD. Everything else — flavor compounds, plant characteristics, nuance — gets stripped out and later added back if desired.

What that means for you:

• Very high potency

• Very consistent

• Mild or artificial-tasting flavor unless terpenes are added

• Clean, straightforward effects

Think of distillate like vodka: strong, neutral, predictable.

Live Resin

Flavor-forward, still extracted with solvents

Live resin is made from fresh-frozen plants, not dried ones. This preserves more of the plant’s natural terpenes. It does use solvents (like butane), but when done properly, the end result is safe and highly aromatic.

What that means for you:

• Much stronger flavor and aroma than distillate

• Effects feel more “full” or rounded

• Oil can look darker, thicker, or streaky; that’s normal

• Terpene-rich and strain-specific

Think of live resin like craft beer: more character, more flavor, less uniform.

Live Rosin

The solventless, hands-on option

Live rosin is also made from fresh-frozen plants, but instead of solvents, it uses heat and pressure only. That’s it. No chemicals involved.

What that means for you:

• Extremely clean and true-to-plant

• Rich, complex terpene profiles

• Typically lower yields = higher cost

• Effects often feel very “natural” and balanced

Think of live rosin like fresh-pressed juice: minimal processing, maximum authenticity.

The Simple Breakdown