THC Drinks vs Edibles

You may have heard “hash” used as another word for marijuana flower, but this is actually a misnomer. While hash is made from marijuana flower, they are two distinct cannabis products. In fact, hash is the oldest cannabis concentrate, tracing its origins back thousands of years. If you’re curious about hash vs marijuana, we’ve got the breakdown below.

Marijuana is what we call the drug created from cannabis, a flowering plant with psychoactive properties belonging to the Cannabaceae family.¹ Cannabis originated in the wild, with one study suggesting that the plant evolved 28 million years ago in the Tibetan region.² Hemp is technically the same plant as cannabis, the only difference being the amount of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC they contain.³ 

Cannabis appears throughout human history, starting as early as 4,000 years ago when Chinese farmers began to cultivate it for use as oil and fiber in rope, paper, and clothing.² Cannabis seeds were also found among the ruins of Pompeii, meaning cannabis was there when the city was buried in ash in 79 A.D.⁴ 

What is Hash?

Hash, short for hashish, is a concentrated form of marijuana made from the resin-producing glands (known as trichomes) of the cannabis plant.⁵ These trichomes contain all the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, which means hash is often significantly more potent than regular marijuana flower. Many other cannabis concentrates are solvent-based extracts because of the solvents used to make them, but hash is a solventless concentrate.³ 

Hash is usually found in solid block or paste-like forms and can vary in color from light brown to black. It has been used for centuries, particularly in regions like the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.⁶ The name "hashish," however, comes from Arabic and loosely translates to "grass."⁷

Production Methods

The techniques used to process marijuana and hash have been passed down through generations. While there are plenty of new, high-tech methods, many approaches to marijuana and hash remain steeped in tradition.

Marijuana Production

Marijuana involves cultivating and harvesting the cannabis plant, which is then cured or flash frozen before being processed into different forms, like flower, edibles, or concentrates. Curing is the careful drying process that preserves the plant’s potency and flavor, whereas flash freezing (a more modern invention) halts any degradation at the time of harvest. Different strains of marijuana are bred to produce varying levels of THC and CBD, which can yield nuances in their psychoactive effects.

Hash Production

Hash production involves collecting the resinous trichome glands from cured or frozen cannabis plants and compressing them into a solid form. Hash can be soft and malleable or hard and brittle, depending on the production method.⁸ Here’s the different ways hash can be made:

• Hand rolling involves vigorously rubbing harvested cannabis buds between your hands until the resin has coated your palms, then continuing to rub until the resin sticks together into solid balls. This makes a form of hash known as charas.⁹
  
  
• Dry sifting puts cannabis buds through a series of finer and finer mesh screens to separate out the trichomes, which are then collected and compressed into a ball, block, or “cake.”⁷ This method makes a form of hash called Moroccan hash.⁶
  
  
• Ice-water extraction involves putting cured cannabis buds in ice water, which makes the trichomes brittle and easier to separate from the rest of the plant matter. The hash made from this process is known as bubble hash because of the bubbles it creates when smoked.⁸
  
  

It’s possible to make hash at home, but it can be tricky. Bubble hash tends to be the best bet for beginners. Visit our blog on bubble hash to learn more.

Potency Comparison

Hash can contain THC levels as high as 80%, compared to the average 20-25% THC found in cannabis flower.⁵ This is because hash is composed entirely of trichomes, the most potent part of the cannabis plant.

Consumption Methods

You’ll find more variety when it comes to consuming marijuana, but hashish consumption still boasts some inventive methods.

• Smoke it : One of the most popular ways to consume hash is by mixing it with ground cannabis flower in joints, blunts, bowls, and bongs. This makes for a more potent experience than you’d get from flower alone. If you’re using a pipe, be sure to place a mesh screen over the flower-filled bowl and then add your hash.⁸ This prevents hot hash from melting through the opening and gunking up your pipe.
  
  
• Vaporize it: A traditional way to consume hash is by dabbing with a dab rig, which involves heating up the nail, positioning your hash inside it, and then inhaling the vapor produced. You can also use an e-rig or dab pen. These methods allow you to control the temperature, which can be key to releasing all the flavors, aromas, and potency of hash.⁸
  
  
• Make it into edibles: You can portion out hash to make your own hash edibles at home, but you’ll have to decarboxylate it first. Eating raw hash will do nothing but give you a stomachache. Hash edibles can be far more potent than regular weed edibles, so they’re not typically recommended for anyone who’s newer to cannabis.¹⁰ 
   

Sensory Experience

Due to its higher THC concentration, hash tends to produce a more intense and longer-lasting high. Plus, with all the terpenes harvested from the trichomes, the taste and aroma of hash can be richer and more resinous compared to marijuana. The flavors of hash are often more earthy and spicy, while marijuana tends to be lighter with herbal, floral notes.

Hash vs Marijuana: Pros and Cons

When choosing between hash and marijuana for your next smoke session, there’s a couple things you’ll want to consider. We’ve laid them all out for you below.

Hash Pros and Cons

Hash can be a great choice for cannabis enthusiasts looking for a flavorful, long-lasting experience.

Pros:

• Higher potency and a full-spectrum experience
• Can be made at home
• Strong flavors and aromas

Cons:

• Potency can be too much for new consumers
• More complex production process means higher price tag
• Less product variety
  
  

Marijuana Pros and Cons

In comparison to hash, marijuana can be better suited for many situations because of its versatility.

Pros:

• Easier to find in dispensaries
• Variety of strain options offering different flavors and effects
• Better suited for beginners due to lower potency

Cons:

• Requires larger amounts to achieve strong effects
• Shorter shelf life compared to hash

  
  

  FAQs About Hash & Marijuana

  Still have questions about the differences between hash vs marijuana? You’re not alone—many cannabis consumers wonder how these two products compare. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you make an informed choice.

  
  

  Is hash stronger than marijuana?
  Yes, definitely. Hash can contain THC levels up to 80%, while cannabis flower typically averages around 20-25% THC.

  
  

  How is hash made?
  There’s multiple ways to make hash, but they all involve extracting the trichomes from the cannabis plant and condensing them, usually by hand or mechanically. Unlike many other concentrates, solvents are not involved.

  
  

  Are the legal statuses different?
  In general, if a state has legalized marijuana, then hash is legal there too. Check your state laws to be sure.

  
  

  How are the production processes different?
  Cannabis plants are grown, harvested, and then processed in all kinds of ways to create the wide variety of finished marijuana products on the market today. Hash is created from harvested cannabis plants that have been dried or frozen.

  
  

  Can you use hash and marijuana interchangeably?
  No. They may both be cannabis products, but they’re entirely different. Hash is typically much, much stronger than marijuana.

  
  

  Deciding Between Marijuana and Hash

  Both hash and marijuana have deep-rooted histories, with cannabis use dating back thousands of years across different cultures. While marijuana has evolved into a diverse market of strains and products, hash remains a time-honored concentrate, cherished for its potency and rich flavor. Ultimately, whether you choose marijuana or hash, both offer unique benefits and are worthy additions to any cannabis connoisseur’s collection.

  
  

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Sources:

1. “What Is Cannabis? Usage, Effects And Legality,” Forbes, April 17, 2024, https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/what-is-cannabis/

2. “Oldest evidence of marijuana use discovered in 2500-year-old cemetery in peakcs of western China,” Science, June 12, 2019, https://www.science.org/content/article/oldest-evidence-marijuana-use-discovered-2500-year-old-cemetery-peaks-western-china

3. “Hemp vs. Cannabis: What's the Difference?” Healthline, January 31, 2025, https://www.healthline.com/health/hemp-vs-marijuana

4. “Early cannabis uses and migration,” Weedmaps, June 18, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/cannabis-and-its-evolution/cannabis-first-use-and-migration

5. “What Is Hashish, Exactly?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/hashish

6. “Hashish 101: What is hash and how to smoke it,” Weedmaps, June 28, 2024, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-to-smoke-hash

7. “Hash: What is it and how to make it,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/what-is-hashish

8. “How to make hash,” Weedmaps, October 25, 2022, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-to-make-hash

9. “What is charas and how do you make it?” Weedmaps, June 28, 2024, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/charas

10. “Hash Edibles vs. Weed Edibles: Similarities and Differences,” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/hash-edibles-vs-weed-edibles

Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.

If you’ve learned about the different types of concentrates, then you probably know shatter—it’s one of the most popular concentrates on dispensary shelves. But did you know there’s more than one kind of shatter on the market today? For your dabbing pleasure, we’ll provide the answers to all your questions and more in this guide to cured resin shatter and live resin shatter.

What is Cured Resin Shatter?

Cured resin shatter is a cannabis concentrate made from cannabis plant material that has been dried and “cured,” meaning the harvested buds have been matured in a carefully controlled environment for several weeks.³ Curing helps preserve (and some say enhance) the plant’s full flavors and aromas by retaining a broad range of terpenes.⁴ The cured marijuana plant is then put through the same solvent-based extraction process, creating cured resin shatter.

What is Live Resin Shatter?

Live resin shatter is a cannabis concentrate made from cannabis plant material that has been flash frozen immediately after harvest, conserving cannabinoids and terpenes at the peak of freshness. This frozen material is then processed into shatter. Live resin has a smaller range of terpenes than cured resin, but it contains more terpenes overall.⁵

Shatter Production Methods

The key difference between the two types of shatter mentioned above is the starting material—cured or flash-frozen cannabis flower—while the production process remains the same.

To make shatter, cannabis flower, shake, or trim is packed into a pressurized tube, and liquid butane is passed through it, extracting desirable cannabinoids like THC and CBD from the plant material. The resulting oil is spread into a thin layer and purified in a low-temperature vacuum oven, which burns away any residual solvents. The final product is a translucent, glass-like concentrate—shatter.²

Depending on the solvent used, sometimes the extracted oil requires winterization, a process in which it’s  mixed with ethanol and then chilled to remove waxes and fats. The ethanol is then filtered out, leaving behind a refined shatter with its characteristic clarity and texture.⁶

Live Resin Shatter Production

Live resin shatter is made from cannabis plant matter that was flash-frozen at harvest to protect the delicate trichomes. Some say this helps preserve a higher amount of the plant’s natural terpenes and cannabinoids, resulting in a more aromatic, flavorful concentrate.⁵

Cured Resin Shatter Production

Cured resin shatter is more stable, glassy, and brittle, making it easier to break apart and handle than its live resin counterpart. The rich, diverse terpene profile creates an enhanced flavor complexity, but cured resin shatter may have a less pronounced entourage effect in comparison to live resin shatter.⁵ But the curing process does lend cured resin shatter a smooth, flavorful smoke with no harsh inhale.⁴

Shatter Potency and Cannabinoid Profile

Shatter can have some variations in texture, taste, and overall effect based on how it was made and what was used to make it.²

Live Resin Shatter Characteristics

Often slightly softer and more pliable due to the retained cannabinoids and terpenes, live resin shatter is less prone to cracking apart like cured resin shatter. It’s a fresh, flavorful, and full-spectrum experience, thanks to those terpenes and cannabinoids that were captured from trichomes at the height of their bloom.⁵ You may need to use lower temperatures to enjoy live resin shatter because of its delicate terpenes. 

Cured Resin Shatter Characteristics

Cured resin shatter is more stable, glassy, and brittle, making it easier to break apart and handle than its live resin counterpart. The rich, diverse terpene profile creates an enhanced flavor complexity, but cured resin shatter may have a less pronounced entourage effect in comparison to live resin shatter.⁵ But the curing process does lend cured resin shatter a smooth, flavorful smoke with no harsh inhale.⁴

Vaporizers

Dab pens offer a portable and convenient way to vape shatter on-the-go with controlled temperature settings. Use a dab pen designed for solid concentrates for best results.

Twaxing

You can use shatter to enhance your traditional smoke session by crumbling small pieces of it into ground cannabis flower in a joint, blunt, or bowl. However, twaxing with shatter can be slightly tricky, as you’ll first need to lightly heat the concentrate to make it malleable.⁷ But if you prefer smoking over dabbing and vaping, then twaxing is a great way to incorporate concentrates.

Infusing Edibles

Infusing concentrates into your favorite edible treats can deepen the experience. You’ll have to carefully heat shatter beforehand to decarboxylate it. Once that’s done, you can add it to cooking oils or butter and bake to your heart’s content.⁸ Cured resin shatter is often the better choice for cooking due to its stable profile, while the delicate terpenes in live resin shatter can be overshadowed or lost in the cooking process.

Pros and Cons: Cured Resin Shatter vs Live Resin Shatter

Choosing between cured resin shatter and live resin shatter depends on your priorities. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which best suits your preferences.

Live Resin Shatter Pros and Cons

If you prioritize flavor and the entourage effect, live resin shatter is a great choice.

Pros:

• Fresher, more vibrant terpene profile
• Stronger aroma and flavor due to flash-frozen extraction
• Often provides a more potent entourage effect
• Generally easier to find and lower in cost than cured resin^5,9

Cons:

• Less stable texture, may be more prone to softening
• Some loss of terpene complexity 
• Can be less shelf-stable than cured resin^5,9

Cured Resin Shatter Pros and Cons

For a stable, long-lasting concentrate with a traditional shatter texture, cured resin shatter may be the better option.

Pros:

• More stable texture, maintaining traditional glassy shatter consistency
• Deeper, more refined flavor due to the curing process
• Better preservation of certain terpenes, leading to a well-rounded taste^5,9

Cons:

• Higher production costs, often making it more expensive
• Less availability compared to live resin shatter
• Some terpene loss due to drying and curing^5,9

Frequently Asked Questions About Different Shatter Types

Navigating the different types of shatter can be tricky; below are answers to some of the most common questions we get on shatter.

What makes cured resin shatter different?
Cured resin shatter is different from other forms of shatter in its starting material, terpene content, and sharp, brittle texture.

Is cured resin shatter more potent?
Not really. If you prefer pure THC intensity, opt for cured resin shatter, but if you want a more flavorful and full-spectrum experience, then live resin shatter is the way to go. Live resin shatter may actually feel stronger because terpenes modify and amplify its effect, even if its THC percentage is slightly lower.

How are these concentrates produced?
Both cured resin and live resin shatter are produced the same way, using a solvent-based extraction process. The difference is what material is used at the start of the process. Live resin uses fresh marijuana that has been flash-frozen, while cured resin uses dried and cured marijuana. 

How do consumption methods differ?
You can consume either type of shatter with a dab rig or dab pen, or by infusing joints, bowls, or edibles. However, cured resin shatter can handle higher temperatures because of its stable terpenes.⁶

Are there flavor differences?
Yes, there are distinct flavor differences between cured resin shatter and live resin shatter due to differences in how they are processed and how terpenes are retained. Live resin shatter has a fresher, more vibrant flavor due to the flash-frozen process that preserves the plant’s natural terpene profile. In contrast, cured resin shatter develops a richer, more complex taste as the curing process alters and refines its terpenes. Ultimately, live resin shatter is best for those who prefer fresh, bold flavors, while cured resin shatter appeals to those who enjoy a more refined and developed taste.⁵

How do I store these concentrates?
Store any type of shatter in an airtight glass or silicone container in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation from air, heat, and light.¹⁰

Learning About Shatter & Cured Resin Shatter

Now that you know more about the differences between cured resin and live resin shatter, your choice may be obvious. But our budtenders are always standing by to help you find the perfect concentrate for your needs. 

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Sources:

1. “Shatter,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/shatter

2. “How Shatter is Made,” Weedmaps, June 18, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-shatter-is-made

3. “Cure,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/cure

4. “Processing and extraction methods of medicinal cannabis: a narrative review,” Journal of Cannabis Research, July 19, 2021, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8290527/

5. “Cured Resin vs Live Resin: Everything You Need to Know,” NuggMD, June 25, 2024, https://www.nuggmd.com/blog/cured-resin-vs-live-resin

6. “Best dabbing temperatures,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/best-dabbing-temperatures

7. “What is twaxing?” CannaConnection, August 13, 2020, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/18515-what-is-twaxing

8. “How to make edibles with concentrates and dabs,” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/how-to-make-edibles-cannabis-concentrates

9. “Freeze Drying vs. Cold Curing Cannabis: Revolutionizing Drying Methods,” Veriheal, August 31, 2023, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/freeze-drying-vs-cold-curing-cannabis-revolutionizing-drying-methods/

10. “How To Properly Store Cannabis Concentrates,” High Times, April 12, 2018, https://hightimes.com/guides/how-to-properly-store-cannabis-concentrates/

Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence.   Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.  State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations. 

CBD is one of the most well-known cannabinoids alongside THC, but another compound gaining attention is CBN. Both cannabinoids come from cannabis and may potentially offer therapeutic benefits, but they interact with the body in different ways. Understanding these differences can help you decide which may be better suited for your needs. 

In this guide, we’ll break down their key differences, benefits, and uses.

CBN vs CBD: Key Differences

While both CBN and CBD are cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, they have many differences. Here’s how CBD vs CBN compare: 

Chemical Structure

CBN and CBD are very different when it comes to their chemical structure and how they are formed in the cannabis plant. First, CBD is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that begins as CBDA. Once it is decarboxylated–exposed to heat or light–it becomes CBD. This can also occur naturally or through combustion.³ CBN, on the other hand, is a byproduct of THC degradation. When THC is exposed to heat, light, or oxygen over time, it converts into CBN.⁴ 

This difference in how these cannabinoids are made impacts their molecular structure and contributes to their effects once they work with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Both CBN and CBD are 21-carbon compounds, but CBD has an open-ring structure that allows it to interact with the body’s receptors without causing psychoactive effects. CBN forms when THC’s closed-ring structure partially degrades, altering its molecular composition.⁴

Effects & Potential Therapeutic Applications

Psychoactive Properties

One of the key distinctions between CBN and CBD is their psychoactive effects—or lack thereof. CBD is entirely non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t cause any mental alterations or a “high” feeling. In contrast, CBN is mildly psychoactive because it is a breakdown product of the intoxicating THC. While the psychoactive effects of CBN are much weaker than THC, they are still there, so exercise caution when you use CBN-rich products.

CBD & CBN Consumption Methods

CBD is widely available and can be purchased in various forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals. CBN is less common, and CBN-rich products are still relatively new to the market.⁸

Here are the most common consumption methods for each cannabinoid:

• CBD: Oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, creams, and vapes are the most popular ways to consume CBD. Dosing can vary based on the product, with oils and tinctures offering the most flexibility.
  
  
• CBN: Primarily available in oils, capsules, and sleep-focused products, CBN is often marketed as a nighttime supplement. Like CBD, it can also be found in gummies and other edibles. The dosage for CBN varies, but it’s typically aimed at promoting sleep or relaxation.
  
  

  
  

  FAQs About CBD vs CBN

  If you’re wondering how CBD and CBN stack up in terms of effects, usage, and availability, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to clarify the key differences.
  
  

  Can you take CBN and CBD together?
  CBN and CBD can be used together, and some cannabis products are formulated with both cannabinoids to provide complementary effects, specifically for sleep and pain relief.⁹
  
  

  Does CBN have psychoactive effects like THC
  CBN has mild psychoactive effects, meaning it’s much weaker than THC. Since CBN is a degraded form of THC, it retains some intoxication properties.
  
  

  Are CBN products as widely available as CBD products
  CBN products are less widely available than CBD products. However, with a growing interest in cannabinoid-based sleep aids, CBN is becoming more accessible.
  
  

  Are there any conditions where CBN is preferred over CBD
  CBN is often preferred for sleep-related issues, while CBD is more commonly used for general wellness, anxiety, and pain relief.
  
  

  How do CBN and CBD compare in terms of onset time and duration of effects
  The onset time and duration of CBN and CBD effects depend on the method of consumption. Typically, CBN products aimed at sleep may take longer to kick in but last longer, whereas CBD may provide quicker relief for issues like pain or anxiety.
  
  

  Choosing Between CBN and CBD

  When deciding between CBN and CBD, it’s important to consider your needs. CBD may be beneficial for daily wellness and anxiety management, while CBN may potentially be better suited for sleep issues. Both cannabinoids can also be used together for enhanced effects. If you’re unsure which to choose, consult your local budtender for personalized recommendations.

  
  

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  Sources:
  
  1. “Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don't,” Harvard Health Publishing, April 4, 2024, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
  
  2. “CBN for Sleep,” Sleep Foundation, November 8, 2023, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-aids/cbn-for-sleep 
  
  3. “What is CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) & what are the benefits of this cannabinoid?” Leafly, January 25, 2021, https://www.leafly.com/news/cbd/what-is-cbda-cannabidiolic-acid-marijuana-cannabinoid
  
  4. “CBD vs CBN: What’s the Difference?” Forbes Health, November 8, 2023, https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/cbd-vs-cbn/
  
  5. “CBD vs CBN: What’s the Difference?” WebMD, October 8, 2023, https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/cbd-cbn-what-is-difference 
  
  6. “Cannabinol (CBN; 30 and 300 mg) effects on sleep and next-day function in insomnia disorder (‘CUPID’ study): protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over, three-arm, proof-of-concept trial,” National Library of Medicine, August 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10450062/ 
  
  7. “A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of the safety and effects of CBN with and without CBD on sleep quality,” National Library of Medicine, October 5, 2023, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37796540/ 
  
  8. “How Is CBN Different From CBD in Cannabis?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/cbn-vs-cbd 
  
  9. “CBD vs CBN: Benefits and Differences,” Healthline, January 14, 2021, https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-vs-cbn
  
  

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  Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.