Hashish Drug

What is Hash (Hashish)?

Hash, or hashish, is a drug that comes from the resinous glands of cannabis plants. It is specifically derived from both the cannabis indica and cannabis sativa plant. It's similar to marijuana or ganja but they're not the same.

It's often referred to as a cannabis or marijuana concentrate because it's made from the compressed or purified preparation of a plant called trichomes. This makes it more potent than marijuana.

Hash comes in a ball or block form. Its color varies and is usually green, red, brown, or black.

What’s the Difference Between Hash and Marijuana? 

Hash and marijuana share many similar qualities. For example, they're both derived from cannabis plants and produce similar effects. They're also both classified as illicit drugs under federal law.

However, that's where the similarities end. The differences between hash and marijuana include:

• Preparation: Hash requires more production steps than marijuana
• Flavors: Hash has a complex, spicy, rich flavor compared to marijuana's herbal, fresh flavor
• Potencies: Hash has a higher concentration of THC and is more potent
• Method of use: How you consume hash is different compared to how marijuana is used

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How Does Hash Work?

Hash is a more potent form of cannabis than marijuana because it has a higher concentration of THC. THC is tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the active ingredient responsible for most of marijuana's psychological effects. Because of this, hash can produce intense psychedelic effects.

Short-term effects of hashish include:

• Relaxation and euphoria
• Enhanced emotional experiences
• Heightened sensory perception
• Strong visual, auditory, and taste sensations
• Altered perception of time
• A feeling of passiveness
• Increased sociability
• A reduction in fear and behavioral inhibitions

Most hash strains contain high levels of THC concentrations of about 40 to 60 percent or higher. One particularly potent type of hash has a 90 percent THC concentration. 

Is Hash Illegal?

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, concentrated cannabis and recreational marijuana are illegal in many states. However, laws are continually changing. In 2018, the state of California legalized the possession of up to 8 grams of hash for people over 21.

How is Hashish Used?

Hash has less flexibility than marijuana and can't be used in tinctures, oils, or creams. But, it can be smoked, vaporized, or eaten as edibles.

Butane hash oil is a runny liquid that can be vaporized in a bong. It contains many of its resins and terpenes, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoids.

Lastly, bubble hash or ice water hash can be smoked in a joint or eaten. It's a solventless concentrate extracted using water. It's less potent but still contains millions of trichome glands and terpenes.

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Side Effects & Dangers of Hash

Many people consider cannabis a safe drug. However, the effects of hashish pose many dangers and trigger various negative side effects. 

These side effects can cause physical harm and impact brain development. Some of the side effects of hash include:

• Sensory distortions
• Distorted or altered perception
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of motor coordination
• Respiratory changes
• Increased heartbeat and blood pressure
• Elevated risk of cardiovascular issues
• Extreme drowsiness
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Poor decision making
• Depression
• Anxiety, panic attacks, and confusion

Long-Term Side Effects of Hash

Hash use and addiction can be detrimental to young adults. This can lead to growth issues and long-term side effects.

Long-term hash use can lead to:

• Reduced immunity
• Growth issues (when used during adolescence)
• Abnormal cell division
• Reduction in testosterone
• Respiratory problems
• Emotional and psychological issues
• Changes in cognition, mood, and problem-solving ability

Is Hash Addictive?

Yes, hash is addictive because of how THC affects your brain. After repeated use, you may find it difficult to feel good without hash.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the American Psychiatric Association, hash use can develop into a cannabis use disorder. Recovering from a cannabis use disorder or addiction can be challenging

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Signs of Hash Addiction

You might have developed a disorder or addiction if you notice any of the following:

• Failed attempts to reduce or eliminate the use of hash
• Financial problems associated with hash use
• Using hash to deal with stress or anxiety
• Problems with work, school, and relationships linked to the use of hash
• Avoiding or giving up on hobbies to use hash
• Using hash while driving or working
• Physical or mental health issues related to hash use
• Frequent hash cravings
• Continued use of hash despite its negative impact
• Tolerance
• Withdrawal symptoms 

Symptoms of Hash Use and Addiction

Symptoms of hash use include:

• Sore throat
• Panic
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Rapid heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Lack of motivation
• Impaired coordination
• Delusional thoughts
• Hallucinations

Risks of Mixing Hash and Alcohol

Combining alcohol and cannabis can put you at risk of various side effects. These side effects can worsen when alcohol is combined with higher concentrations of cannabis like hash.

It slows down your metabolism, causing THC to stay in your body for longer. Other side effects of mixing hash and alcohol include:

• Increased marijuana potency
• Increased risk of a THC overdose or alcohol poisoning
• Impaired thinking and rationality
• Increased impulsivity and risky behavior
• Increased risk of dehydration
• Hallucinations and anxiety
• Increased risk of long-term liver or kidney disease
• Weakened immune system
• Cardiovascular problems
• Gastrointestinal health problems
• Increased risk of developing an addiction to alcohol or cannabis

Hash and other cannabis products reduce the risk of vomiting. This effect can be extremely dangerous when you begin vomiting due to alcohol poisoning, leading to asphyxiation.

Hash Withdrawal Symptoms

Long-term, chronic use of hash leads to dependence. When this happens, you'll feel withdrawal symptoms when you suddenly stop using hash.

Hash withdrawal symptoms:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Disturbing dreams
• Constant cravings for the drug
• Loss of appetite

Treatment Options for Hash Addiction

If you or someone you know is addicted to hash, seek medical help. Inpatient residential options often have the highest chance of a successful recovery because you check yourself into a rehab facility. This allows you to focus entirely on your recovery without temptations.

However, you can also experience a successful recovery from outpatient programs. This is similar to inpatient programs, but you can leave the treatment facility.

Treatment options on an inpatient or outpatient basis include:

• Detox services: Offer support, supervision, and treatment of symptoms during the withdrawal phase of recovery
• Therapy and counseling: Helps identify the reason they developed their addiction and how to manage triggers
• Support groups: Includes 12-step programs that enable people to receive and provide support to their peers
• Family therapy: Provides support and education to the patient and his or her loved ones

Does Hash Have Medicinal Purposes?

Most experts in the medical community agree that hash doesn't have medical properties or benefits. On the other hand, marijuana and CBD can be used to treat various conditions, including:

• Depression
• Cancer
• Anxiety
• Pain

Summary

Hash is a marijuana concentrate that comes from the resinous glands of a cannabis plant. Although, it's similar to marijuana or ganja, they're not the same.

Hash has a higher THC content compared to marijuana. This means it has a higher potency.

It is a drug used for recreational purposes but unlike marijuana, hash has little to no medicinal use. It can also lead to dangerous short and long-term side effects, addiction, and dependence.

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