Cannabis resin encompasses various products of the female cannabis plant that have a particularly high cannabinoid content. Because they are extracted from the trichomes of the plant, they contain a high concentration of cannabinoids, making them particularly interesting for medical use.
Cannabis Resin on the Plant
Cannabis resin specifically refers to the resin of the female cannabis plant. Because it is produced by tiny, hair-like glands called trichomes, it is found primarily on the flowers.
In other words, it is concentrated where cannabinoid production is highest. The resin secreted by the trichomes appears as a glassy film that shimmers whitish in the light, making it easy to recognize. However, it only develops its slightly sticky consistency under optimal conditions. [1]
The Function of Cannabis Resin on Cannabis Plants
Cannabis resin primarily serves as a defense mechanism in nature. It keeps pests away—both through its intense scent and its sticky surface. At the same time, the aroma can attract pollinating insects. Another advantage of cannabis resin is its protection against harmful UV radiation.
The formation of resin, as well as the often undesired production of microseeds, are natural strategies of the plant to ensure its reproduction. [2]
The Connection Between Cannabis Resin and Cannabinoids
Cannabis resin is the part of the cannabis plant with the highest concentration of cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These active substances play a crucial role in the medical potential of cannabis. [3]
The majority of the resin accumulates on the flowers, which is why they are considered the most important harvest product for medical use. The exact natural benefits of a high THC content in cannabis resin are not yet fully researched.
However, it is assumed that its chemical composition helps to deter predators. [1]
Traditional Methods and Production
Both private growers and Cannabis Social Clubs use various traditional methods to extract cannabis resin. Because the resin comes from the trichomes, it is collected using different techniques.
With hand-rubbed resin, the flowers of several cannabis plants are touched with the hands. Because the resin has a sticky consistency, it adheres to the skin and can then be processed into a solid mass using the fingers. However, if fresh plants are used, the resin must first harden.
If fresh plants are used, the resin needs to cure over a longer period. Although this method is not sterile, it has been practiced for centuries in Central Asia and India.
The dry sieve extraction method is more common in Europe. In this process, dried cannabis flowers are rubbed through a fine sieve. Since resin and trichomes are among the smallest parts of the plant, they separate first and can be collected separately. However, the longer the sieving lasts, the greater the risk that the obtained cannabis resin will be contaminated by other plant components. [4]
Modern Extraction Methods for Cannabis Resin
In the modern cannabis industry, advanced extraction methods are used to ensure a particularly high degree of purity. Because solvents such as CO₂, ethanol, or butane are used, a particularly concentrated end product can be obtained.
In other words, the extraction specifically separates the resin from the rest of the plant material without dissolving unwanted components. However, the solvent must be completely removed after the process, leaving behind a clean, highly pure extract.
The CO₂ extraction method has the advantage that the solvent returns to a gaseous state after the process. Since no residues remain, this method is particularly suitable for medical applications. In other words, it offers one of the safest ways to obtain cannabis resin. [5]
Alternatively, cannabis resin can be extracted by pressing. In other words, it is obtained mechanically under pressure and heat. Because the resin is bound to a carrier such as parchment paper, it can then be stored in concentrated form, making it easy to process further later. This technique is known as the Rosin technique. [4]
Becoming a Cannabis Patient
Medical cannabis is a medication with a wide range of applications. Since medical cannabis is a prescription drug, you need a doctor’s prescription to purchase it at a pharmacy.
If you are considering cannabis therapy, you can receive professional advice from the cooperating doctors at nowomed. To do this, register for free and fill out our medical history form. Afterward, you have the option to book an initial consultation with a cooperating doctor. During this conversation, the doctors will assess your suitability for cannabis therapy, develop a treatment plan, and gladly answer all your questions. If cannabis therapy is deemed medically appropriate for you, you will also receive a cannabis prescription.
References
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- Dowling, C. et al. (2021). Timing is everything: the genetics of flowering time in Cannabis sativa. The Biochemist, 43(3), 34-38.
https://doi.org/10.1042/bio_2021_138
- Kalant, H. (2001). Medicinal Use of Cannabis: History and Current Status. Pain Research and Management, vol. 6.
https://doi.org/10.1155/2001/469629
- Knodt, M. (2020). Cannabis-Extraktion. Konzentrate, Extrakte und Haschisch-Herstellung. Solothurn: Nachtschatten Verlag.
- Lazarjani, M. et al. (2021). Processing and extracting methods of medicinal cannabis: a narrative review. Journal of Cannabis Research 3, 32.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00087-9
- Müller-Vahl, K. & Grotenhemen, F. (2017, Februrary 24). Medizinisches Cannabis. Die wichtigsten Änderungen. Deutsches Ärzteblatt, 114(8), 352-356.
https://www.aerzteblatt.de/pdf.asp?id=186476
- Skelley, J. W. et al. (2020). Use of cannabidiol in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 60(1), 253-261.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.japh.2019.11.008
8.https://www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de/fileadmin/Dateien/5_Publikationen/Drogen_u
nd_Sucht/Berichte/Broschuere/BMG_CaPris_A5_Info_web.pdf
- Moltke, J. & Hondocha, C. (2021). Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety and sleep problems. Journal of Cannabis Research, 3(5).
https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00061-5
- Gieringer, D, St. Laurent, J. & Goodrich, S. (2004). Cannabis Vaporizer Combines Efficient Delivery of THC with Effective Suppression of Pyrolytic Compounds. Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, 4(1), 7-27.
https://doi.org/10.1300/J175v04n01_02
- MacCallum, C. et al. (2023). A Clinical Framework for Evaluating Cannabis Product Quality and Safety. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 8(3).