From the hills of Switzerland to the prairies of America, CBD is widely produced in different regions of the world. This non-psychoactive cannabinoid has become a popular alternative for relieving ailments such as anxiety and chronic pain, without the psychoactive side effects of marijuana.
Origin of the hash
Hash is a hemp concentrate that has been used since ancient times and has played an important role in various cultures over the centuries. From the Middle East to the foothills of the Himalayas and the small villages of India, it has been produced in each region in its own style, becoming a highly regarded product.
During the 18th century, hash was introduced to Europe and quickly gained popularity among the artistic and literary elite. Among the most prominent consumers were members of the “Club des Hashischins,” a Parisian group made up of notable literary figures such as Baudelaire and Balzac.
Today, hash continues to be one of the most popular forms of cannabis consumption, thanks in large part to its characteristic effects, taste, and texture.
Different types of hashish
Although they may seem similar, each of the different varieties transports you to a completely different world. It’s crazy! Therefore, today I invite you to discover together the different types of hashes that can be found in different countries.
Afghan hash
Cannabis Indica, native to Afghanistan, is much more than just a plant, it is a fundamental part of the culture of this region. Afghans have cultivated and consumed cannabis for centuries, becoming experts in hash production. But it wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s, when the Hippie Trail brought large numbers of young tourists to this region, that the hash business really took off in Afghanistan. And today, Afghanistan is the largest producer of hash in the world.
Afghan hash, also known as “chars,” is unique and highly valued around the world. Its elaboration is an artisanal process that begins with the extraction of trichomes from the dried buds, to obtain the “kief” or “garda”. This kief is then mixed with hot water and/or tea over a small flame in a metal dish, until a pasty consistency is obtained. This dough is then kneaded by hand and sometimes even pressed with the feet, until it achieves a black color and a dense consistency similar to caramel.
Quality Afghan hash bears the producer’s hallmark and is extremely strong. In addition, it has a spicy and harsh taste in the throat that makes it unmistakable.
Cashmere hash
Located in the northernmost part of the Indian subcontinent, Kashmir is famous for its hash and opium crops. With the little information regarding this type of hash, we only know that it is produced in Kashmir, and that its elaboration is similar to that of charas.
However, its aroma is much more intense and spicy, and the smoke it produces is less harsh. Its exterior is black, but when opened it changes to a chestnut brown.
When used, floral nuances can be appreciated.
Lebanese hash
Lebanon is a land of history and passion, and its relationship with hash is legendary. Today, this plant is the jewel in the crown of the Lebanese economy, with exports exceeding $200 million annually. In fact, the prestigious consulting firm McKinsey and Co. has recommended that the government of Lebanon legalize cannabis as a way to boost the local economy.
The Bekaa Valley is where Lebanon produces most of its cannabis. There, the plants are dried in the sun before being harvested, acquiring a yellow, brown or reddish hue that is a delight for the senses.
Once dried, the CBD flowers are sifted to create kief, which is then pressed as it is done in Morocco (as you will see below). The result is thick blocks of brittle hash, red or yellow, which are sold as the famous red or yellow Lebanese.
Its spicy and pungent aroma makes it unmistakable, and its potency is worthy of admiration.
There are two varieties of Lebanese hash that differ in color: yellow and red. The former is believed to be made from young plants, and is capable of producing an intense and pleasant high. On the other hand, the second, made with mature plants, produces a more narcotic and relaxing effect.
Hash of manali
Did you know that Manali is an ancient village in India, famous for its incredible hash? This place is located in the Kullu district and has its own language, a unique blend of Sanskrit and Tibetan. For the 1,500 inhabitants of Manali, the cultivation and production of cannabis is one of the main sources of income.
Manali hash, also known as “Manali Cream,” is a delicacy that has gained recognition both nationally and internationally.
The making of this hash resembles the charas process, where fresh flowers are rubbed between the hands to obtain a thick layer of resin. As a result, we have a dark black hash that over time takes consistency and ends up hardening. If you want to experience the taste and aroma of freshly cut buds, this is your hash.
Moroccan hash
For centuries, Morocco has been an epicenter for hemp cultivation. Their arrival in the region dates back to the Middle Ages, in the period between 640 and 710 AD. It was in the 18th century that the Rif region became the country’s leading producer of cannabis, becoming one of the world’s largest suppliers of hash.
Today, Moroccan hash is known around the world for its high quality. It is produced by tapping the dried branches of the hemp plant against fine sieves to separate the trichomes and obtain the kief. This kief is repeatedlyencouraged and pressed to form hash blocks.
The color of the hash varies from dark green to brown, depending on the maturity of the plants and how long they have dried. Its consistency is also diverse; Moroccan hash is usually hard and brittle, similar to chocolate, while pollen hash is much softer, similar to marzipan.
Quality Moroccan hash is very aromatic and smooth, and has an exceptionally pleasant flavor. Unlike other hashes, it does not have a characteristic spicy aroma, but is known for its distinctive and exquisite floral aroma.
Hash mepali
Nepal is a hidden gem high in the Himalayas, a place where nature has naturally grown cannabis, just like in India, Afghanistan and other neighboring regions. This treasure has been a fundamental part of the local culture for centuries.
The way hash is made in Nepal is unique, as it is produced like charas, in large balls that are called “temple balls“. The resin that adheres to the hands of Nepalese people during harvest is collected and molded into these balls, which have a luster that makes them stand out from the rest.
Nepali hash is a delight for the senses: gooey and creamy, with a strong, spicy aroma that invades the nostrils and an intense, rich flavor that delights the palate. Its smooth smoke and powerful body effect set it apart from Afghan hash.
Manali cream is famous for its deliciousness, but Nepali temple hash is not far behind, being one of the most valued products in Amsterdam’s coffee shops.
Pakistani hash
Pakistan declares in its laws that hash is illegal but its production is still a reality in the northern tribal territories. And no wonder, since this product has been part of Pakistani culture for a long time and many consider its quality to be exceptional.
People in northern Pakistan speak of top-notch hash as Awal Namber Garda, i.e., the “high-grade powder.” To obtain it, a processing process similar to that used in Afghanistan is followed: mature plants are dried, sifted into kief, and then hot-pressed to form thick, dark blocks. But some inhabitants let their hash mature for at least three months inside a goat or sheepskin, with the aim of further enhancing its flavor and potency.
Pakistani hash is a dark product, with a very spicy aroma and quite harsh on the throat.
Turkish Hash
Turkey is a country full of surprises, and one of the most unexpected is its excellent hash production. Turkey has declared cannabis illegal , but many provinces have authorized its cultivation and production for medical and research purposes.
Turkish hash is made using a technique similar to that of other countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Morocco. Large quantities of kief are hot-pressed to obtain black blocks, which when pressed correctly, are hard and brittle. In addition, its slightly spicy aroma and mild smoke make it a real delight for the senses.
It is usually made with young plants, which gives it its own unique personality.
Bibliography and Digital Sources
- González-Ferrero, C., Gómez-Bombarelli, R., & Muñoz, E. (2017). Cannabis and its derivatives: what do we know today? Addictions, 29(2), 89-101.
- Moreno-Sanz, G. (2016). Cannabinoids and their impact on health. Spanish Journal of Cardiology , 69(3), 252-258.
- Sanchís Fortea M., González Alonso J., Álvarez Martín E. (2011). National Drug Plan: Emerging Drugs.
- Casares, L., Moreno-Sanz, G., & Fernández-Ruiz, J. (2017). Marijuana and its active components: effects on the central nervous system. Journal of Neurology, 64(3), 117-126.
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). (2020). Cannabis and cannabinoids: health and social issues. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.
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