Bubble hash, usually ranging between 30-60% THC, is a flavorful and potent option for stoners looking for a premium extract experience. Named after the way it bubbles when heated, bubble hash is a type of solventless cannabis concentrate.
This popular concentrate is made by removing the tantalizing trichomes, or resin glands, of the cannabis flower from the rest of the plant matter during production. Additionally, bubble hash, unlike some other forms of cannabis oil, do not rely on solvents or gases – such as butane, propane, CO2, and alcohol – to extract their products.
The end result? A more concentrated and pure mix of cannabinoids and terpenes.
History of Bubble Hash
This method of cannabis extraction originated sometime in the 1980s but grew in popularity in the ’90s. The process of making this kind of concentrate, also referred to as ice water hash, entails gathering fresh or flash frozen cannabis flower, soaking it in ice water, and filtering, or agitating, the flower through small mesh sieves, known in the industry as “bubble bags.” The finished product is then dried, packaged, stored, and ready for consumption.
Traditional hash, otherwise known as hashish, is commonly found pressed into bricks or spheres. Whereas, bubble hash is left unpressed and ranges from a powdery texture to a pasty consistency.
Bubble Hash: Understanding Quality
The quality of the starting flower is critical in determining the quality of the concentrate. Top-shelf bubble hash can be hard to find. It is usually processed by experienced hash makers that have access to extremely high-quality flower and a skill set that matches the level of technicality and precision that goes into making this product.
Appearance
Differences in quality can typically be determined by color: the lighter the better. High-quality bubble hash should be golden in color and similar to the consistency of sand (if stored properly in a cool environment). If kept at room temperature, or warmer, it will darken. High-quality bubble hash should glisten like glitter.
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Aroma
When produced correctly, cannabis concentrates maintain the scent profile of the starting flower. A strong, pungent smell upon opening the container means there is a high terpene content. High levels of terpenes are usually accompanied by strong flavors and effects when consumed.
Rating/Purity Scale
The quality of bubble hash can be hard to determine; therefore, many producers and dispensaries rate using a six-star system:
- Cooking Grade (1-2 Stars): This grade contains the most plant matter. Commonly used to make edibles, it will not melt and therefore is not easily vaporized.
- Half Melt (3-4 Stars): Typically selling at a lower price point than full melt, this grade is the grade of choice for topping bowls and infusing joints or blunts.
- Full Melt (5-6 Stars): This high-quality form of bubble hash contains unadulterated trichomes and is clean enough to be dabbed without leaving residue on your rig. Full melt is high quality and usually comes with a matching price tag. If you are looking to reward yourself with something special, it is worth the splurge.
A person’s preferred consumption method is usually a guiding factor on the quality, or melt level, that they desire.
Photos via Weedmaps by Gina Coleman
Bubble Hash: Methods of Consumption
Bubble hash has been a popular staple in the cannabis industry for decades. It can be smoked, vaped, dabbed, or cooked into edibles. Further, it is admired for its smoothness, purity, versatility, taste, and effects. All of which offer an experience to consumers that is unlike other forms of cannabis oil.
One of the easiest ways to take advantage of this highly potent tokeable treat is to sprinkle it on top of a bowl or joint. Another option is to use a hash pipe or add a screen to a regular pipe or bong. These tools are designed to stop the bubble hash from getting drawn through the air hole while smoking. Be sure to position the lighter a small distance from the bubble hash and gently heat it – avoid using a direct flame.
Dabbers turn to bubble hash for a cleaner, smoother, and more versatile cannabis oil option. When choosing this method of consumption, it is important to consider factors like:
- Genetics
- Quality
- Curing
- Melt Factor
- Storage
When dabbing, you want to leave as little residue in your rig as possible. If this is your preferred form of consumption, be sure to ask a budtender if the product you’re selecting is easily dabbable.
If you are new to concentrates, start low and slow. A little bit goes a long way!