I cut a mature lower branch that got bent.

After thinking long and hard the past few days...the mention of using this technique for crappy weed brought back memories. I have seen this before...It was crappy weed that was twisted and very dark, like you described.
Unfortunately, It was still crap.

We'll try It with some gooeyfrosty bud. later. I think I am going to let mine dry 1st, as per directions, that I found.
Perhaps that will keep it from deforming so much...maybe,
that is the key!?