What is hash? A guide to traditional concentrates
Hashish explained, how it's made, the main types, and how it compares to modern concentrates.
Hash (hashish) is one of the oldest cannabis concentrates, made by separating and compressing the plant’s resin glands (trichomes), where most of the cannabinoids and terpenes live. It usually runs around 20 to 60% THC: stronger than flower, but generally milder than modern solvent extracts.
How hash is made
The core idea is the same across methods: collect the trichomes, then press them.
- Dry-sift (kief): sieving dried flower to collect loose resin, then pressing it.
- Hand-rubbed (charas): rolling fresh plants by hand so resin sticks to the skin.
- Bubble hash (ice-water): agitating flower in ice water so trichomes break off, then filtering them through mesh screens. A clean, solventless method.
- Hash rosin: pressing bubble hash with gentle heat and pressure. A premium solventless concentrate that bridges traditional hash and modern extracts.
Grades and quality
Not all hash is equal. The prized versions are full-melt bubble hash, clean enough to vaporize almost completely and leave little residue. Lower grades hold more plant matter and are better added to flower than dabbed. A clean melt and a bright, terpene-rich aroma are the signs of quality.
How it compares to modern concentrates
Hash is more potent than flower but generally less potent than extracts like shatter or distillate. Many people prefer it for its full, traditional flavour, and because the popular methods are solventless, with no butane or other solvents involved.
How it’s used
Hash can be added to a joint or bowl, or vaporized at the right temperature. As with any concentrate, it’s stronger than flower, so start small.
For the full range of extracts, see our concentrates guide.
Sources
- Health Canada, Cannabis extracts
Frequently asked questions
What is hash?
Hashish, a traditional concentrate made by collecting and pressing the resin (trichomes) of the cannabis plant. It is more potent than flower but milder than modern extracts.
How is hash made?
By separating the resin glands from the plant, through sieving (dry sift) or with water (bubble hash), then pressing them together.
How strong is hash?
Usually around 20 to 60% THC: stronger than flower (15 to 25%) but generally milder than solvent extracts like shatter or distillate (60 to 90%+).
How do you use hash?
It can be smoked with flower, in a pipe, or vaporized. Start small, as it is stronger than bud.
Know your local rules
Legal age, where to buy, and where you can use it all change by province.
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