MMJ Express Canada presents Hash and Charas, two powerful cannabis resin forms steeped in history and tradition, evolving from ancient customs to contemporary enjoyment. While they may seem similar to newcomers, their unique backgrounds and traits set them apart.
Charas, a fascinating resin originating from the Indian and Nepali Himalayas, is crafted by hand-rubbing the plant. Unlike traditional resins like hashish from Lebanon, Morocco, or Afghanistan, Charas holds a special place in the Himalayas.
Exploring the differences between Hashish and Charas enhances the intrigue of cannabis. Let’s delve deeper into the world of cannabis or learn about the distinct methods of producing Charas.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Charas and hash are both cannabis concentrates created using different mechanical techniques.
- Hash producers isolate trichomes from the cannabis plant and compress them into blocks.
- Charas is a unique type of hash made by rubbing fresh cannabis flowers between hands to collect the resin.
Hash and Charas: The Oldest Concentrates in the World
Hash and Charas are concentrates made without solvents. Physical methods are used to extract and gather trichomes, transforming the cannabis flower into a concentrated, malleable mass.
While most cannabis strains in their raw form contain 20-30% THC, concentrates from these strains can achieve THC levels between 65% and 90%. This is due to their retention of essential components like cannabinoids and terpenes while discarding other plant materials.
What is Hash?
Hash, short for hashish, is a cannabis often referred to as dab, gangster, hemp, boom, or keef. It’s made by separating trichomes (the resin glands) from cannabis buds and compressing them into a solid form. Hash can vary in texture, ranging from soft and pliable to hard and brittle.
Originating from the Middle East, Pakistan, North Africa, and Afghanistan, hash has been used since at least 1123, with significant roots in India, where it’s known as Charas. Initially consumed or burned as incense, it began being smoked in the 1600s.
Types of Hash
- Bubble Hash: Created using ice water to separate trichomes, offering a smooth flavor and high yield.
- Afghani Hash: Characterized by a dark, sticky consistency achieved through hand-pressing cannabis resin into balls or cakes.
- Dry Sift Hash (Kief): Produced by sieving cannabis plant material to collect trichomes, which are then pressed into solid form.
- Moroccan Hash: Made by sieving dried cannabis and pressing the collected trichomes into blocks or cakes, resulting in a hard, crumbly texture.
- Lebanese Hash: Often red or yellow, made by drying and curing cannabis plants, then sifting and pressing the resin.
What is Charas?
Those who have experienced quality Charas remember it well. The sweet aroma and strong high of a Charas joint or chillum leave a lasting impression. But what exactly is Charas and how is it crafted?
Charas is a special hashish type made from fresh cannabis plants. Instead of sieving dry flowers, producers rub the flower between their hands, releasing resin that sticks to their palms. This process is performed 2-3 weeks before the plants fully mature to maximize THC content.
History
Charas has a rich history, first documented in the 1874 book ‘Pharmacographia.’ It comes from northern India, where people have been producing it for thousands of years. Holy Saddhus smoked it to connect with Shiva, and ancient texts like the Vedas have praised it. Devotees honor Shiva by smoking Charas in clay pipes called chillums while meditating.
Production Method
Producing Charas takes about 8 hours to yield 7-8 grams. The process involves:
- Washing hands thoroughly with pH-neutral soap.
- Selecting large buds, removing leaves, and gently rubbing the flowers between palms to cover them with a thick resin layer.
- Increasing pressure to release more resin until the buds yield no more.
- Rubbing hands together to form the resin into a ball.
This traditional method remains unchanged, preserving ancient practices without additives or chemicals.
Hash vs. Charas
| Feature | Hashish | Charas |
| Production Method | Made by crushing and sifting dried cannabis flower heads and compressing them into blocks or balls. | Resin is rubbed from the cannabis plant by hand to form a paste shaped into blocks or balls. |
| Potency (THC %) | 20-60%, varies based on processing | Around 30%, known for higher concentration due to terpene content |
| Taste | Earthy flavor with spicy undertones | Intense spiciness due to high oil content |
| Flavour | Earthy, spicy with hints of herbs, smooth finish | Pungent, ranges from musky/earthy to sweet/fruity |
| Medical Properties | Relaxes, aids sleep, muscle relaxation | Helps with anxiety, seizures, inflammation |
| Effects | Super relaxed, sedative | Energetic, creative, stimulating |
What To Choose: Hash or Charas?
To the untrained eye, hash and Charas might appear identical, leading to uninformed purchases. These two types of cannabis concentrates possess distinct characteristics and effects. What suits one individual may not suit another. By considering a few essential factors, you can maximize value and enjoy the best experience possible.
Potency and Effects
- Hash: Hashish typically induces a profoundly relaxed and sedative state, allowing you to unwind.
- Charas: It’s known for delivering a strong, cerebral high that can be more predictable due to consistent processing. Users report almost hallucinatory, psychedelic effects. With its dream-like qualities, Charas provides a powerful and steady high.
Availability and Tradition
- Hash: More globally available due to simpler production and longer shelf life. It’s often linked with Middle Eastern and North African cultures.
- Charas: Less prevalent outside its traditional areas (India, Nepal), holding significant cultural and historical relevance in the Indian subcontinent.
NOTES:
Choose Hash If:
- You prefer a consistent and predictable high.
- You want a concentrate that is easier to store and has a longer shelf life.
- You seek versatility in consumption methods.
Choose Charas If:
- You desire a more intense and euphoric experience.
- You value cultural and traditional aspects of cannabis consumption.
- You want access to fresh cannabis plants and prefer handmade products.
The Best Hash Online in Canada [SALE]
Interested in purchasing hash online? Discover the best hash products at an online dispensary like MMJ Express Canada.
| Feature | Captain’s Pink Hash | Moroccan Love Hash | Rolls Royce Hash |
| Effects | A sense of well-being and a light buzz without causing heavy couch-locking. | The high initially stimulates your head before soothing your body. | Gentle sedation, blissful relaxation, and euphoria. |
| Consistency | Malleable and easy to work with. | Hard, non-pliable to touch. | Hard and dense, dark brown to black in color. |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet vanilla candy undertones and fresh floral skunk. | A hint of earthiness and sweetness. | Musky, woody, pungent. |
| Best Use | Chronic pain, insomnia, and depression. | Chronic pain. | Insomnia. |
Conclusion
Choosing between Hash and Charas relies on personal taste. Each has unique attributes, rich histories, and potent effects. If you prefer a laid-back, earthy experience with a smoother finish, Hash may be your choice. Conversely, Charas offers a more intense, energetic high with a spicy, pungent flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the strongest type of hash?
The strength of the best hashish depends on its THC content. Some examples of hash and their THC potency include:
- Afghan Black Hash: Originating from the Hindu Kush mountains, it boasts THC levels over 40%, characterized by a dark, oily texture and earthy aroma.
- Moroccan Blonde Hash: This North African hash, known for smooth smoke and high quality, can reach THC levels of 50% or more.
- Charas: While it can be 30% potent, it may reach up to 60%.
What does good hash look like?
Quality cannabis hash should possess the following traits:
- Blonde to dark brown color, indicating higher quality.
- Soft, slightly sticky, and pliable texture, not dry or powdery.
- Strong, pleasant aroma – earthy, spicy, or herbal.
- When smoked or vaporized, it should have a smooth, rich flavor without harshness.
- Uniform consistency, free from visible impurities or plant material.
- Minimal plant material, primarily made up of trichomes (resin glands).
How long does hash remain fresh?
Based on long-term observations, grams of hash, when stored properly, can remain enjoyable for over a year, sometimes longer in optimal cold conditions.
For instance, once bubble hash is thoroughly dried, it’s best stored in a freezer or refrigerator, preventing it from becoming greasy before pressing, selling, or dabbing. Keeping it cold also helps preserve terpenes and prevents degradation over time.
