Hash Edibles vs. Weed Edibles: Similarities and Differences
Article written by
Dipak HemrajHead of Research and Education
Content reviewed by
Dr. Lewis JasseyMedical Director - Pediatric Medicine
When it comes to cannabis consumption, there are a variety of ways to go about it, including consuming edible marijuana. And when shopping around for edible products, you may notice that some are listed as weed edibles and some as hash edibles.
The main difference between hash edibles and weed edibles is that hash edibles can be more concentrated. That’s because hash is produced by compressing resin from cannabis, whereas weed is a greenish-gray mixture of dried cannabis flowers.
When cannabis resin is compressed to produce hash, it can have a much higher tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration. Depending on how much hash is added to the edibles, they can be more potent than weed edibles.
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What Are Hash Edibles?
Hash, also called hashish, is the compressed resin (kief) from cannabis and looks like a crumbly brown brick. Resin typically contains a high concentration of THC and becomes more potent when compacted.
How they work
Hash edibles work just like any other cannabis edible. They take around 30 minutes to take effect but could potentially work faster or have stronger effects since hash is more concentrated.
Uses
Hash is easy to add to any edible. However, it’s typically best for:
- Baked goods
- Cannabutter
- Desserts
- Gummies or candies
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Potential benefits
As with all edibles, hash edibles have a range of medicinal benefits due to their THC content.
These include:
- Easing chronic, acute, or neuropathic pain
- Easing insomnia
- Stimulating appetite
- Inducing calming effects for anxiety
- Reducing vomiting and nausea
If you require more potent or faster-acting edibles, hash edibles could be worth considering.
Risks and drawbacks
Due to the potency of hash, some drawbacks and risks are worth noting.
Firstly, users are at higher risk of overdosing or greening out due to the higher concentrations of THC. While cannabis is generally safe, too much can cause vomiting, nausea, or paranoia.
Secondly, experts claim that people who use hash could be more susceptible to developing a cannabis dependence or addiction. That’s because users are exposing themselves to higher concentrations of THC.
Additionally, with greater THC concentrations, users are more likely to faint or experience a drop in blood pressure. If you are prone to fainting or suffer from low blood pressure without weed, you may want to avoid hash or limit its use.
It’s also worth considering where you source your hash. There are different methods of producing hash, and some techniques involve solvents, such as butane or propane. These solvents could be present in the final product and may cause adverse effects.
What are Weed Edibles?
Weed, also referred to as marijuana, is the dried form of cannabis. It looks like greenish-gray dried leaves, and it’s usually the flowers or the buds which have been dried. Weed edibles or marijuana edibles are edible forms of cannabis (usually in the form of baked goods).
How they work
Weed edibles typically work in the body 30 minutes after ingesting (smoking marijuana, on the other hand, typically hits the body and brain sooner). Depending on the amount of weed added to the edibles, they may take slightly longer to work than hash edibles and could have weaker effects.
Uses
Weed may not be ideal for all types of edibles. However, it’s best suited for baked goods like brownies, cakes, or cookies. Dried weed is also smoked or inhaled.
Potential benefits
Weed edibles offer the same benefits as hash edibles since they contain THC. However, depending on the amount added, weed edibles could be slightly less effective.
Risks and drawbacks
Again, the risks are similar to those associated with hash edibles. For example, overdosing or greening out is still possible, leading to nausea, vomiting, and paranoia. Weed edibles may also cause dependency and addiction when consumed in high amounts.
Similarities and Differences Between Hash Edibles and Weed Edibles
Similarities:
- They contain THC.
- They may offer therapeutic benefits.
Differences:
- Hash edibles may contain a higher concentration of THC.
- Hash edibles may have additional risks compared to weed edibles.
- Hash can be added to various edibles, whereas weed is more limited.
How to Decide Which Is Best for You
When to consume hash edibles
Consume hash edibles if you require a higher amount of THC or need edibles that work slightly faster.
If you are looking for a cannabis product that is easy to add to most edibles, then hash would be ideal.
When to consume weed edibles
Opt for weed edibles if you are prone to greening out or find that hash edibles are too strong.
The Bottom Line
Hash edibles and weed edibles are different forms of cannabis edibles. They have the same effects; edibles are considered stronger or more potent, except hash.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which strain you use for edibles?
Some strains are better suited for different therapeutic uses. However, the health benefits are usually linked to cannabinoids such as THC, which most strains contain.