Like marijuana, hashish is a cannabinoid and a DEA Schedule I substance. It is very similar to marijuana, or cannabis, and thus its background and side effects often parallel those of marijuana. There are a few distinct differences, though, which is why we have compiled this overview of hashish, including its background and other important details
The Historical Background of Hashish
While marijuana first appeared in written text around the year 2737 BCE, hashish did not make an appearance until around the year 900 AD, when it became popular across what was then known as Arabia. In fact, it was so popular that it made an appearance in the famed One Thousand and One Arabian Nights.
Interestingly enough, hashish gets its name from the Persian word for an assassin, as it was believed to be used by assassins in that area. Whether or not this was true, it is likely that we have none other than Marco Polo to thank for the modern use of the term hashish, as he was the one who brought the legend of hashish assassins back to Europe with him around 1300.
Details – What Is Hashish?
While you likely already know that hashish is derived from the same Cannabis sativa plant as marijuana, you may not know the differences that make it a unique substance. So what is hashish?
Hashish is made by extracting, compressing, and/or purifying the tops of the flowers of the cannabis plant. The flowers contain trichomes, which have the highest THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content of the entire plant. Because THC is the chemical that produces any cannabinoid’s high, hashish is usually much more potent than marijuana and other cannabinoids.
To get high with hashish, users will almost always either smoke it or consume it. To smoke hashish, a water pipe (called a hookah) is almost always used, though it may also be rolled with tobacco into a blunt. When eaten, it is usually cooked into baked goods, such as cookies, brownies, or butter.
It is important to note that, though many people view hashish and marijuana as mild drugs, hashish, and all cannabinoids qualify as Schedule I drugs with the DEA. Schedule I drugs are believed to have a high potential for abuse, and they have no known (or accepted) medical value or use. Thus, Schedule I drugs – including heroin, LSD, and others – carry the harshest criminal sentences of all drug Schedules.
Street Names for Hashish
When referring to hashish on the street, most people will refer to it as one of the following:
- Hash
- Gangster
- Hemp
- Hash oil
- Boom
- Ganja
- Dope
- Weed
Side Effects of Using Hashish
When a user smokes or eats hashish, THC enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where receptors for THC-like chemicals that the body produces will naturally pick it up and affect the way the user feels. Some of the most common side effects of using hashish include, but are not limited to:
- Increased heart rate
- Respiratory issues (frequent coughing, infections, etc.)
- Increased anxiety
- Impaired memory
- Decline in mental health
What Does the High From Hashish Feel Like?
Hashish users report a feeling of temporary euphoria and relaxation. Some may also have hallucinations, though these are typically milder than those associated with harder drugs, like LSD. Reaction times are typically slowed, and the user generally feels very lethargic.
With this overview, you should better understand what hashish is and how it affects the human brain and body. Understand that, as a Schedule I drug, hashish is illegal, and possession may result in serious criminal charges.
