Cannabis Moon Rocks: Can They Be Medicinal?

1. What Are Moon Rocks?
2. How to Smoke Moon Rocks
3. Who Should Consider Moon Rocks?
4. Tips for Smoking Moon Rocks
5. Talk to Your Doctor About Medical Cannabis

Moon rocks are fun, unique cannabis products that create a very strong high and are ideal for occasional recreational cannabis experiences. While they can be used medicinally, the lack of consistency in quality and cannabinoid content deters most patients from working them into their wellness plan.

They are also tough to dose and very potent. Like any other cannabis product, moon rocks can be low or high-quality, so it’s essential to get them from a trusted source if you don’t make your own moon rocks.

What Are Moon Rocks?

Cannabis moon rocks are made by dipping a bud of cured cannabis flower in cannabis concentrate, usually distillate. Once the bud is sufficiently saturated in concentrate, it is then rolled in kief. The finished product is called a moon rock, typically costing upwards of $25 a gram.

Since moon rocks are made with three different cannabis products (flower, oil concentrate, and kief), there’s a vast range in quality regarding these highly potent nugs.

The most important thing about moon rocks is that they are extremely strong. The flower used alone is usually 15-25% THC. That flower is then dipped in a concentrate with a THC content of up to 90% and rolled in kief, a fine trichome powder with very high potency. With all this, a moon rock typically has a potency of 50-80% THC, on par with other potent forms of cannabis concentrate.

Hash Oil

Hash oil or cannabis concentrate is one of the main ingredients in moon rocks. This cannabis product is potent and adds to the high THC levels. Sometimes, purified THC distillate is used but will be a less potent high than “live” concentrates because of the lack of the entourage effect.

Kief

Kief consists of the glittery cannabis dust known as trichomes that fall from the dry flower when ground up. You can collect kief in the bottom of your grinder or purchase it from legal cannabis dispensaries. This goes on the outer layer of a moon rock.

How to Smoke Moon Rocks

The most efficient way to smoke moon rocks is to break off a small piece and mix it with regular dry cannabis flower in a bowl or joint. It’s not advised to smoke moon rocks alone due to their potency and harshness, especially if you are new to cannabis. Always consult your doctor before adding a new method of consumption to your treatment plan.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

First, you’ll need to gather your supplies. Purchase moon rocks from a dispensary, or for a more cost-effective option, make your own by covering dry cannabis bud in cannabis concentrate and finish by coating the finished product in kief. To smoke your moon rocks, you’ll also need scissors, a lighter, and glassware (i.e., a bong or bowl) or a potent vaporizer for the best experience.

Step 2: Break It Up

After you gather your supplies, use scissors to break up the moon rocks into smaller pieces. Don’t use your grinder because the concentrate in the moon rocks is sticky and will clog it.

Step 3: Pack a Bowl

Moon rocks are best consumed with a glass piece, such as a glass pipe like a bong or bowl. For a less harsh experience, or if you are consuming them for medical purposes, certain heavy-duty vaporizers or e-rigs may do the trick. After you have broken up the moon rocks with scissors, pack the pieces of moon rocks on top or other marijuana.

Step 4: Use a Lighter or Hemp wick

Moon rocks can be challenging to get burning because too much heat too fast can cause them to catch fire. Applying heat slowly and maybe even a hemp wick is recommended to encourage a slower burn.

Step 5: Inhale Slowly

It’s advised to take it slow when consuming moon rocks because they are so potent. Smoke a small amount and monitor the effects before consuming more.

Who Should Consider Moon Rocks?

For the average cannabis consumer, moon rocks will produce a potent high. Even daily users with high tolerances will feel a significant lift in their high when smoking cannabis moon rocks. For this reason, moon rocks are generally considered a recreational product.

However, the strong high offered by moon rocks might be just what some medical patients need, particularly if the patient is battling severe pain or appetite loss. Some moon rocks are made strain-specific, which can be beneficial for medical consumers who are interested in the unique qualities offered by a particular strain.

However, the biggest downside to moon rocks is that it’s tough to control the amount of THC you’re intaking when smoking them. Since they are combusted, many of the cannabinoids and trichomes get burned up in the process while releasing free radicals and airway-irritating heat. For most medical patients who need a specific ratio of cannabinoids and terpenes to treat their condition(s), this is a bit of a deal-breaker.

Tips for Smoking Moon Rocks

Due to the intense potency of cannabis moon rocks, it’s best to have your smoking session in a safe space and engage in relaxing activities directly following consumption. Here are some quick tips that will ensure you have a smooth experience.

• Start slow: Always consume a small amount of moon rocks and observe the effects before consuming more significant amounts.
• Choose the right environment: Since moon rocks are strong, consume them in a safe and secure place like your home.
• Stay hydrated: Keep plenty of water nearby to prevent undesirable side effects such as cotton mouth.
• Bring snacks: Stock up on healthy, easy snacks such as fruit and granola to keep yourself hydrated and stave off any munchies.

Talk to Your Doctor About Medical Cannabis

It’s important to discuss medical cannabis with your doctor. As stated, moon rocks are mostly considered a novelty or recreational treat. However, discuss your treatment plan with your physician if you are ever in doubt about whether a specific consumption method may be viable for your condition.

Proceed with caution if you’re interested in trying moon rocks recreationally or medicinally. The high THC content of cannabis moon rocks can lead to severe problems for new or occasional cannabis consumers. If you’re still wondering if moon rocks are for you, book a personalized consultation with a cannabis coach to get your questions answered.

Note: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be professional medical advice. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided. Always consult a physician before deciding on the treatment of a medical condition.

This article was originally published on 11/30/22. Updated on 5/9/23.