Introduction

Charas is a type of hashish produced from the resin of the cannabis plant. Unlike the more common methods of dry or sieved extraction, Charas is distinguished by a characteristic manual rubbing technique that collects resin directly from the living plant. This ancient practice, historically widespread in certain Himalayan regions, intrigues many hemp enthusiasts interested in this concentrate for its unique manufacturing method and sensory characteristics.

In Switzerland, cannabis with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content below 1% is legally permitted for production and sale, in accordance with the Federal Act on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (LStup, RS 812.121). Charas from industrial hemp varieties or hemp rich in cannabidiol (CBD) thus potentially falls into the category of legal products if its THC content respects this limit.

This article offers a detailed exploration of Charas, from its handmade production process to legal analyses, including consumption and storage advice. Each piece of information is based on official Swiss sources or reliable scientific studies when available. The aim is to provide a factual and educational look at this unique hashish, its place in the CBD world, and the regulations in force.

Origin and History of Charas

Traditional Craftsmanship in the Himalayas

Historically, Charas is associated with the mountainous regions of the Himalayas, notably in India and Nepal, where hemp cultivation is ancient. Unlike hashish produced by sieving the dried flowers of the plant, Charas cultivators manually rub fresh flowers to collect the resin. This manual rubbing method dates back several centuries, according to oral testimonies from northern Indian cultivators. These traditional practices have largely persisted in isolated areas, where access to modern extraction technologies remained limited.

From Charas to CBD

In its most known form, Indian or Nepalese Charas mainly contains THC, the psychoactive molecule of cannabis. However, the rise of the CBD market has encouraged the selection of hemp varieties with high cannabidiol content and THC levels below the legal threshold (in Switzerland, < 1%). Thus, producing Charas from these CBD-dominant varieties has become a relatively recent practice in Europe, including in Switzerland. This adaptation allows Charas enthusiasts to discover a similar product in its organoleptic characteristics but with a legally authorized THC level.

Legality in Switzerland

Legal Limit of 1% THC

In Switzerland, the cultivation, processing, sale, and possession of cannabis are legal if the plant or finished product contains less than 1% THC (source: LStup, RS 812.121, and the Ordinance on the Control of Narcotics OCStup, RS 812.121.1). This margin was established to distinguish non-psychoactive hemp, primarily rich in CBD, from recreational cannabis traditionally richer in THC.

Production of CBD Charas

It is therefore permitted to produce Charas based on non-psychoactive (or mildly psychoactive) cannabinoids as long as the THC level respects the legal threshold. Swiss CBD hemp cultivators who adhere to this constraint can manually extract the resin and offer a product with potentially high CBD concentration without exceeding the authorized THC limit.

Controls and Traceability

Switzerland offers a relatively strict control framework regarding the origin and analysis of legal cannabis products. THC compliance is subject to laboratory analyses, often by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Responsible producers regularly provide analysis certificates validated by a third-party laboratory, certifying product compliance (THC < 1%). This protects both the consumer and the producer by guaranteeing a legal and stable product.

What is Charas?

Characteristics and Composition

Charas is a form of hashish composed mainly of trichomes, these resinous glands abundantly found on cannabis flowers. Originally, in the Himalayan region, resin harvesting is practiced on plants still in full bloom, while the buds are fresh and not dried.

This raw resin is then formed into pellets or sticks. If Charas comes from a cannabis variety rich in THC, it will have a more psychoactive effect, while Charas from a CBD-rich variety (and with less than 1% THC) will provide milder effects. Cannabidiol (CBD) is recognized for its potentially relaxing impact, without the high comparable to THC (source: World Health Organization (WHO), “Critical Review Report: Cannabidiol”, 2018).

Texture and Aromas

Due to its manual extraction method, Charas often has a more malleable and sticky texture than other types of hashish. Its aroma is generally characterized by:

• Resinous and spicy notes.
• An earthy and woody side, resulting from direct contact with fresh flowers.
• Sometimes, more pronounced floral nuances depending on the hemp variety used.

The differences in aromas and flavors largely depend on the terpene profile: these aromatic molecules present in cannabis (such as myrcene, limonene, or caryophyllene) influence not only the smell but also how the product is perceived in the mouth. CBD Charas producers often strive to preserve natural terpenes as much as possible to benefit from what is called the “entourage effect” (possible interaction between different plant compounds), even though this is more described in studies related to THC.

The Traditional Rubbing Technique

Step 1: Plant Selection

Charas rubbing relies primarily on the choice of cannabis variety. Whether in the Himalayas or Swiss fields, the selected plant must be healthy, resinous, and in full bloom. CBD Charas production follows the same logic but is based on hybrid varieties or industrial hemp with high CBD content.

Step 2: Preparation Before Harvest

Before rubbing, the cultivator checks the flower’s maturity stage. The trichomes must be well-developed but not too amber to maintain good quality resin. Ideally, the plant is neither dried nor exposed to rain or excessive humidity just before harvest, as too much water can dilute or damage the resin.

Step 3: Hand Rubbing

Charas production is done by carefully rubbing the flower still on the plant or by taking freshly cut buds directly between the palms of the hands. Gradually, a layer of sticky resin deposits on the skin. This resin, sometimes mixed with small plant debris, is then gently removed and rolled until the desired consistency is achieved.

Unlike other techniques (dry sieving, solvent extraction), rubbing requires:

1. Time and patience.
2. A certain skill to avoid damaging the flowers too much and thus losing resin.
3. Precise pressure control so that the trichomes aggregate without being excessively crushed.

Step 4: Shaping and Refining

Once gathered into a ball or stick, the resin can be slightly dried or kept fresh. Some cultivators prefer slight refining that allows aromas to develop, while others believe Charas should be enjoyed as fresh as possible since it is already resin extracted from undried flowers.

Charas and Other Types of Hashish: What Are the Differences?

The generic term “hashish” covers several resin extraction techniques from cannabis:

• Dry sift hashish: grinding and sieving dried buds, then pressing the kief powder into a block.
• Bubble hash: using cold water and filter bags to separate trichomes.
• Rosin: solventless extraction by hot pressing.

Charas differs by:

1. Harvesting from fresh plants, while most classic hashish uses dried flowers.
2. Hand rubbing, an artisanal method with often lower yields than modern methods.
3. A greasier and stickier texture.
4. A distinct aromatic palette, linked to terpenes and essential oils present in fresh resin.

This uniqueness gives Charas a special status, sometimes perceived as more “authentic” in regions where cannabis cultivation is traditional.

Chemical Composition and Laboratory Analyses

Major Cannabinoids

The main difference between classic Charas and CBD Charas lies in the THC/CBD ratio. Charas with high THC content is generally sought for its powerful psychoactive effects, while CBD Charas compliant with Swiss legislation will be rich in cannabidiol and remain below the authorized THC limit. Laboratory analyses often focus on:

• Total THC content (THCA + THC).
• Total CBD content (CBDA + CBD).
• Other cannabinoids (CBG, CBC, etc.) present in smaller quantities.

Terpenes and Flavonoids

Beyond cannabinoids, laboratories sometimes measure the terpene profile, determining the concentration of myrcene, limonene, or caryophyllene in the product. These volatile compounds are important for organoleptic qualities and the complementarity of effects when consuming the product.

Quality Standards and Contaminant Control

To be marketed in Switzerland, legal cannabis products must also present acceptable levels of heavy metals, pesticides, and microorganisms (molds, bacteria). These quality criteria are generally verified through analyses by independent laboratories. A carefully crafted CBD Charas analyzed by a certified laboratory must provide:

• An analysis certificate certifying the THC content.
• The absence of abnormal contamination (pesticides, metals, pathogenic microorganisms).

This transparency is essential to reassure consumers and comply with Swiss hygiene and food safety standards.

Modes of Consumption

Vaporization

Vaporization is often recommended to enhance the aromatic profile and reduce the combustion of plant materials. Since Charas is sticky and greasy, it is preferable to use a vaporizer designed for concentrates or to place it on a support (such as a mesh pad designed for resins).

Infusion

It is also possible to prepare infusions, provided the active CBD principles are released in a fatty substance (whole milk, fatty plant milk, butter). Resins like Charas dissolve poorly in water alone. The infusion generally requires a heating time of at least a quarter of an hour for the cannabinoids to decarboxylate and become bioactive.

Mixing with Other Herbs

Some consumers prefer to mix Charas with other aromatic plants (verbena, mint, or other nicotine-free herbs) to facilitate handling and combustion. In any case, warnings related to tobacco should be respected if used, as nicotine can act as an addiction factor and is not desirable in a wellness-oriented product.

Storage Tips

Temperature and Humidity

Due to its fresh resin content, Charas is sensitive to temperature and humidity variations. It is recommended to store it in an airtight container, away from heat and direct light. Moderate temperatures (between 15°C and 20°C) best preserve its consistency and aromas.

Oxidation

As with any cannabis-based product, oxidation can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes over time. An opaque container or vacuum packaging can extend the shelf life while maintaining the product’s freshness.

Shelf Life

If properly stored, CBD Charas can be kept for several months without losing too much potency and aroma. Beyond that, the product may gradually dry out, become more brittle, lose aromatic intensity, and oxidize. Regularly checking the resin’s condition will help determine if it is still pleasant to consume.

Trends and Perspectives Around CBD Charas

Appeal for Craftsmanship

The growing popularity of CBD has brought renewed attention to Charas, whose production remains manual and artisanal. This slower method contrasts with the industrial production logic seeking rapid yields. For many consumers, this authenticity is a criterion of choice: buying a “handmade” product creates a sense of connection with tradition.

Adaptation of the Swiss Market

With a legislative framework at 1% THC, Switzerland positions itself as a niche market for CBD Charas. Cultivators who master the manual rubbing technique can diversify their resin offerings by providing an artisanal format, distinct from sieved or mechanically pressed hashish.

Improvement of Varieties

Breeders are working on increasingly resinous genetics adapted to local climates to increase the yield and quality of CBD Charas. Agronomic research on high-CBD hemp plants now integrates specific needs for resin production, including varieties rich in terpenes and trichomes.

Precautions and Responsibility

Local Regulations

If you plan to produce or consume Charas, it is imperative to check the regulations in force in your canton and control the THC level. Although the Swiss legal limit is clearly stated, local interpretation differences may exist. It is also necessary to ensure that production complies with permit, declaration, and traceability requirements.

Respect for Dosage

Charas, even when it comes to CBD, remains a concentrate of cannabinoids. The effects can be more pronounced than with a simple hemp flower. It is therefore important to start with small amounts, especially if you are not used to consuming concentrates, to gauge your tolerance.

Medical Information

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD does not lead to abuse or dependence (WHO, 2018). However, it is strongly recommended to consult a healthcare professional if you plan to use CBD-based products for therapeutic purposes. It is not advisable to stop or adjust medical treatment without professional advice.

Conclusion

Charas, produced by manual rubbing from fresh cannabis flowers, holds a special place in the world of hashish. Heir to a centuries-old Himalayan tradition, it now attracts the interest of CBD enthusiasts thanks to the rise of hemp varieties with low THC and high cannabidiol content. Closer to its artisanal origin, Charas requires technical know-how and a concern for quality that make it a high-end and rare product, even in an already well-structured Swiss market.

In Switzerland, legislation allows the production of legal Charas (THC < 1%) in compliance with the Federal Act on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (RS 812.121). Laboratory analyses, strict traceability regulations, and THC level verification are all guarantees of safety for the end consumer. It is this rigor that makes it possible, within the Swiss landscape, for products like CBD Charas to emerge, both traditional and adapted to current quality standards.

From an organoleptic perspective, Charas offers profiles rich in terpenes, a characteristic texture, and resinous, spicy, and sometimes floral aromas. Its artisanal production, although not very profitable in terms of yield, values incredibly resinous cannabis varieties and echoes the heritage of producing regions like India or Nepal. In terms of consumption, caution is advised: despite the absence of marked psychoactive effects related to CBD, this concentrate can contain high amounts of cannabidiol, and an appropriate dosage for each individual is essential.

The future of CBD Charas in Switzerland seems promising, driven by new hemp varieties and interest in an authentic product. By combining this ancestral know-how with modern scientific expertise, local producers can offer a subtle and rich concentrate. At the crossroads of craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation, Charas perpetuates a heritage once confined to the slopes of the Himalayas, adapting it to the expectations of a legal and demanding market.