Difference between Marijuana and Hashish

In general, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) warns that hash is the most potent and concentrated form of cannabis. Hash contains very high levels of THC, usually much higher than marijuana, although THC levels have been climbing in marijuana in recent years.

Since marijuana contains plant material, it is typically less potent than the extracted resin of hashish that eliminates all of the “extras.” Though THC levels vary, marijuana may generally have a potency of 10-20 percent THC while THC levels in hashish can range from 20 percent to 60 percent.

This means that it will take much less hashish than marijuana to achieve psychoactive effects. One hit of hash can go a long way. For someone accustomed to a lower level of THC like that found in marijuana, it can be dangerous to assume the results will be the same.

Higher potency may lead to increased negative consequences of use and raise the risk for an adverse reaction to the drug.

NIDA warns that higher levels of THC can raise the odds for addiction. Higher potency can also mean a greater risk for a possible psychotic reaction as heavy use may produce hallucinations, paranoia, and schizophrenia-like symptoms.

The Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) reports that in 2011, nearly a half-million Americans received emergency medical treatment in an emergency department (ED) for a negative reaction to the abuse of a cannabinoid drug.

Hashish may also commonly be mixed with adulterants as it is manufactured, which can make it even more potentially dangerous as the individual using the drug may not be sure what other substances or toxins the product may contain.