Hash and Charas are two potent forms of cannabis resin that have travelled through time and tradition, from ancient rituals to modern recreational use. While they may appear similar to beginners, they have distinct histories and characteristics.
Charas is an intriguing resin from the Indian and Nepali Himalayas, made by hand-rubbing the plant. While Western experts call traditional resins from Lebanon, Morocco, or Afghanistan “hashish,” Charas is unique to the Himalayas.
Understanding the differences between Hashish and Charas adds a new level of fascination to the world of cannabis. Let’s dive in and explore the best hash online or the unique techniques of creating Charas.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Charas and hash are both cannabis concentrates prepared mechanically using different techniques.
- Hash makers separate the trichomes from the cannabis plant and compress them into blocks.
- Charas is a unique type of hashish made by rubbing fresh cannabis flowers between the hands to collect the resin.
Hash and Charas: The Oldest Concentrates in the World
Hash and Charas are concentrates made without solvents. Mechanical or physical methods remove and collect trichomes and transform the cannabis flower into a concentrated, malleable mass.
While most cannabis strains in their raw plant form contain an average of 20-30% THC, concentrates made from these same strains can have THC levels ranging from 65% to 90%. This is because concentrates retain essential components like cannabinoids and terpenes while removing other plant materials.
What is Hash?
Hash (short for hashish) is a cannabis concentrate and is also called dab, gangster, hemp, boom, and keef. Hash is produced by separating the trichomes (the resin glands) from the cannabis buds and then compressing them into a solid form. Hash can come in various textures, from soft and pliable to hard and brittle.
Hashish originates from the Middle East, Pakistan, North Africa, and Afghanistan. People have used it since at least 1123, with notable origins in India, where it’s called “charas.” Initially eaten or burned as incense, people have smoked it since the 1600s.
Types of Hash
- Bubble Hash: Made using ice water to separate the trichomes. It has a smooth flavour and a high yield.
- Afghani Hash: It has a dark, sticky consistency through hand-pressing cannabis resin into balls or cakes.
- Dry Sift Hash (Kief): Produced by sieving the cannabis plant material to collect the trichomes, which hash makers pressed into a solid form.
- Moroccan Hash: Made by sieving dried cannabis and pressing the collected trichomes into blocks or cakes. It has a hard, crumbly texture.
- Lebanese Hash: This type is often red or yellow, produced by drying and curing cannabis plants, then sifting and pressing the resin.
What is Charas?
Whoever has tried good Charas will never forget the experience. The sweet scent and strong high of a Charas joint or chillum leave a lasting impression. But what is Charas, and how is it made?
Charas is a special type of hashish made from fresh cannabis plants. Instead of sieving dry flowers, the producer rubs the flower between the hands and releases resin that sticks to the palms. This process occurs 2-3 weeks before the plants reach full maturity to maximize THC content.
History
Charas has a rich history, first mentioned in the 1874 book ‘Pharmacographia.’ It originates from northern India, and people have been producing it for thousands of years. Holy Saddhus smoked it to connect with Shiva, and ancient Indian texts like the Vedas praised it. Devotees honour Shiva by smoking Charas in clay pipes called chillums and meditating deeply.
Production Method
Producing Charas requires about 8 hours to make 7-8 grams. The process involves:
- Washing hands thoroughly with pH-neutral soap.
- Selecting large buds, removing leaves, and gently rubbing the flowers between the palms to keep them completely covered with a thick resin layer.
- Increasing the 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 and preserves the ancient tradition. There are no additives or chemicals used.
Hash vs. Charas
| Feature | Hashish | Charas |
| Production Method | This is made by crushing and sifting dried cannabis flower heads and then compressing them into blocks or balls. | Resin is thoroughly 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 flavour 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 an untrained eye, hash and Charas might seem identical, which leads to buying either one without much thought. These two types of cannabis concentrates have distinct characteristics and effects. What works well for one person may not be suitable for another. Considering a few key factors, you can get the most value for your money and the best possible experience.
Potency and Effects
- Hash: Hashish tends to induce a deeply relaxed and sedative state. It’s as if the weight of the world lifts off your shoulders and allows you to just chill and unwind.
- Charas: Known for producing a strong, cerebral high that can be more predictable due to its consistent processing. Some users report almost hallucinatory, psychedelic effects. With its dream-like and spacey qualities, Charas provides more than just a light stone. Preferred for those seeking a potent and steady high.
Availability and Tradition
- Hash: More widely available globally due to easier production and longer shelf life. These are often associated with Middle Eastern and North African cultures.
- Charas: Less common outside of its traditional regions (India, Nepal). It holds important cultural and historical importance in Indian subcontinental regions.
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 are looking for versatility in consumption methods.
Choose Charas If:
- You seek a more intense and euphoric experience.
- You appreciate the cultural and traditional aspects of cannabis consumption.
- You want access to fresh cannabis plants and prefer handmade products.
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| Feature | Captain’s Pink Hash | Moroccan Love Hash | Rolls Royce Hash |
| Effects | A general sense of well-being and a light buzz without causing a heavy couch-locking effect | The high first goes straight to your head before travelling through your body with its soothing and sedating qualities. | Gentle sedation, blissful state of relaxation, and euphoria. |
| Consistency | Malleable and easy to work | Hard, non-pliable by touch | Hard and dense, with dark brown to black colour |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet vanilla candy overtone and fresh flowery skunk and earth | A hint of earthiness and sweetness | Musky, woody, pungent |
| Best Use | Chronic pain, insomnia, and depression. | Chronic pain | Insomnia |
Conclusion
Deciding between Hash and Charas depends on personal preferences. Both have unique qualities, rich histories, and potent effects. Hash might be your choice if you prefer a more laid-back, earthy experience with a smoother finish. Charas, on the other hand, offers a more intense, energetic high with a spicy, pungent flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the strongest type of hash?
The strength of the best hashish depends on its THC content level. Some examples of hash with their THC potency:
- Afghan Black Hash: This originates from the Hindu Kush mountains. It boasts THC levels exceeding 40%, a dark, oily texture, and an earthy aroma.
- Moroccan Blonde Hash: This North African hash, with smooth smoke and high quality, can reach THC levels of 50% or more.
- Charas: It can be 30% potent but reach up to 60%.
What does good hash look like?
Good cannabis hash must have the following qualities:
- Blonde to dark brown colour. Indicates higher quality.
- The texture should be soft, slightly sticky, and pliable, not dry or powdery.
- Strong, pleasant smell – earthy, spicy, or herbal.
- When smoked or vaporized, it should have a smooth, rich flavour without harshness.
- Uniform throughout, without visible impurities or plant material.
- Contain minimal plant material and primarily consists of trichomes (resin glands).
How long does hash remain fresh?
Based on long-term observation, grams of hash, when stored properly, can remain highly enjoyable for over a year. Sometimes, it can be longer if kept in optimal cold conditions.
For example, once bubble hash is thoroughly dried, it is best stored in a freezer or refrigerator. This keeps it from becoming greasy before pressing, selling, or dabbing. Keeping it cold also helps preserve the terpenes and prevents them from breaking down over time.
