One of our (many) favorite things about cannabis is the sheer versatility of it. The cannabis plant itself has countless uses, and the health benefits of cannabis consumption are broad and ever-growing. There are also many ways to enjoy cannabis, with options for everyone, whether you’re a recreational or medicinal consumer. Further, cannabis products come in several forms and styles.
Unfortunately, the same versatility that makes cannabis so wonderful is the same quality that can overwhelm even seasoned cannabis consumers. It can be challenging to know which option is the best for you – THC, CBD, dried flower, edibles, beverages, salves, tinctures, and more. And then there’s cannabis hash. Many of our customers have heard the term but don’t know what it is or how to consume it, so we thought we’d write the answers to our three most common questions about hash for anyone who is curious.
What is Cannabis Hash?
Generally speaking, when people talk about cannabis, they’re referring to the plant’s dried flower called marijuana or bud. Meanwhile, hash also comes from the cannabis plant but refers to an extract that’s made from the plant’s resinous trichomes, the sticky stuff covering the plant’s surface, which are then processed into a concentrated form.
Since hash is an extract, it tends to have much higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the cannabis compound responsible for the psychoactive effects (or high) cannabis is known for compared to dried cannabis flower. Higher levels of THC mean the hash is significantly more potent, and its effects will be much stronger than the flower. The potency of dried cannabis flower ranges from about 15 – 30 percent, while hash potency is between about 40 to 80 percent.
Types of Hash
As we said at the beginning, cannabis is versatile, and cannabis hash is no different. However, there are two primary ways of making hash.
Dry sift hash is created by mechanically separating the trichomes from the cannabis plant by sifting the plant through different-sized screens, progressing to ones of fine mesh. The resulting hash is the collection of refined, powdery resin glands.
As the name suggests, Ice water hash is made using ice and liquid water to separate trichomes from the surface of the cannabis plant. The ice freezes the trichomes, which then break off as it’s stirred. The resulting liquid is filtered through bags made of fine mesh, after which the resin is collected and dried. Ice water hash, also known as bubble hash, can be brown or dark green in coloring and comes in either bricks or balls.
How to Smoke Hash
Traditionally, hash was consumed orally by either infusing it in a beverage or cannabis edible. But these days, most people smoke hash similar to smoking cannabis flower – via pipes, bongs, and joints. However, unless you know your tolerance and are looking for a powerful high, considering hash’s high potency, we recommend sprinkling a bit on top of your cannabis flower rather than smoking a bowl of hash. The powdery consistency of dry sift hash makes it ideal for mixing into dried flower.
On the other hand, ice water hash is better for dabbing, which requires a dab rig and tools such as a small torch and e-nail. Dab rigs are sort of like small bongs used to smoke cannabis concentrates rather than dried flower. Simply place a small amount (a dab) of ice water hash onto the end of the nail and use the torch to heat it. The result is a vapor you inhale and then exhale.
Final Thoughts
We like to think of cannabis hash as the cherry on top, so to speak, of a typical cannabis experience. Add a sprinkle of hash with your dried cannabis flower to experience a more potent high on occasion, like when you get the house to yourself for the first time in a while and can lounge in your bathrobe and watch any tv show you want.
Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis consumer wanting to try something new or are new to the cannabis world. Greeley Gallery has everything you need. In addition to pipes, bongs, and dab rigs, you can find an assortment of high-quality cannabis products at our north Portland cannabis dispensary. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is happy to answer any questions you have or make recommendations seven days a week between 7 am and 10 pm. See you soon!
Written By: Katrina Paulson
