Temperature Guide
Temperature is the single most important variable in controlled thermal extraction. Different compounds activate at different temperatures, which means your temperature setting directly controls what you extract, how it tastes, and how strong the effects are.
The three zones
| Zone | Range | What Happens | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 330–370°F (165–188°C) | Volatile terpenes activate first. Light, flavorful vapor. Gentle effects. | Flavor chasers, microdosing, first-time users |
| Medium | 370–410°F (188–210°C) | Balanced extraction of terpenes and active compounds. Moderate density. | Daily sessions, balanced experience |
| High | 410–435°F (210–224°C) | Heavier compounds extract. Dense vapor, stronger effects, less flavor. | Maximum extraction, experienced users |
The combustion boundary
Botanical material begins to combust around 451°F (233°C). Above this threshold, you are no longer extracting—you are burning. Combustion destroys active compounds and produces harmful pyrolysis byproducts including benzene, toluene, and naphthalene. This is the entire reason controlled thermal extraction exists: to stay below that line.
Terpene activation points
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds responsible for flavor and aroma. Each has its own boiling point:
- Pinene (pine, herbal): ~311°F / 155°C
- Myrcene (earthy, mango): ~334°F / 168°C
- Limonene (citrus): ~349°F / 176°C
- Linalool (floral, lavender): ~388°F / 198°C
- Caryophyllene (peppery, spicy): ~266°F / 130°C
Starting low and gradually increasing temperature lets you taste the terpene profile before moving into heavier extraction. This is the principle behind thermal titration.
Practical recommendations
- Start at 350°F for a new strain to taste the terpene profile.
- Step up in 10°F increments across the session for full extraction.
- Never exceed 435°F to avoid combustion conditions.
- Factor in grind consistency—finer grinds extract faster at lower temps.
- Factor in moisture—overly dry material extracts hotter and faster.