Reclaim

Definition: Reclaim, also called resin, is the dark, sticky residue that builds up inside pipes, bongs, dab rigs, and nails after repeated use. It’s a mix of leftover cannabinoids, burnt plant material, tar, ash, and carbon. Some people scrape and smoke it when they run out, but it’s harsh and contains far more combustion byproducts than fresh cannabis.

What Is Reclaim Made Of?

Reclaim forms when smoke or vapor cools and condenses on glass. From flower, it’s mostly tar, ash, and partially burned plant compounds with some THC. From dabbing, reclaim in a dab rig tends to be cleaner and more potent because it’s condensed concentrate vapor, but it’s still been heated repeatedly.

Is It Safe to Smoke Reclaim?

It’s not recommended. Reclaim has already been through high heat, and burning it again concentrates harmful combustion byproducts, which can irritate the throat and lungs. It also tends to taste acrid and produce a weak, unpleasant high. Reclaim from dab rigs is less harsh but still has degraded terpenes and possible byproducts from overheating.

How Do You Clean Reclaim From Your Gear?

Soak or shake glass pieces in isopropyl alcohol with coarse salt, then rinse thoroughly with hot water. Regular cleaning gives better flavor, smoother hits, and less buildup. Many people swab their dab nail with alcohol after each session to prevent reclaim from forming in the first place.

Related terms: Dab Rig, Dabbing, AVB, Concentrates

Sources: Meehan-Atrash J et al., “Toxicant Formation in Dabbing: The Terpene Story,” ACS Omega, 2017; National Institute on Drug Abuse: Cannabis (Marijuana).