Kief, the dusty remnants left behind after grinding up medical marijuana, is a potent byproduct that falls from the flower of the plant. But what actually is kief and why does it contain a significantly elevated cannabinoid content compared to typical medical marijuana flower? This guide explains what kief is, where it comes from, and how it works.
What is kief?
Kief is an accumulation of trichomes, the cannabinoid- and terpene-packed resin glands of the medical marijuana plant responsible for the frosty appearance of mature medical marijuana flower. Kief naturally falls from flower when harvested, during transport, and after grinding. It’s most commonly found in the bottom compartment of a grinder, where it accumulates after falling through a fine mesh screen.
Because kief comprises the trichomes that contain phytocannabinoids like delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), this part of the plant is very potent. For some consumers, this elevated potency is a major draw. Kief is therefore often reserved and added to other medical marijuana products for increased effects.
Why is kief popular?
Medical marijuana consumers in search of elevated THC content may prefer kief for its elevated levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. While even the strongest of medical marijuana flowers contain around 25% to 30% THC, kief can contain anywhere from 50% to 80% THC. However, it’s not just more THC that makes kief popular. While some patients may prefer this potency, it’s a myth that elevated THC levels means a better medical marijuana product. Kief
also contains heightened concentrations of non-intoxicating cannabinoids like Cannabidiol (CBD) or Cannabigerol (CBG). These compounds offer their own unique properties that some patients may prefer.
Want to learn more about these cannabinoids? Read our guides to What Is THC?, What Is CBD?, and What Is CBG? for more information.
Making use of the kief that comes from your medical marijuana is one of the most effective ways to use as much of your purchase as possible. This potent and flavorful part of the plant should never be left behind.
Three ways to consume kief
As with any form of medical marijuana, it’s best to start low and slow. Kief is known for its potency, so try a little and see how you feel. Some patients may prefer the effect of elevated THC levels on pain and other conditions, while others might find it to be too much. Gauge your tolerance first to make sure you consume the right amount.
- Consume it on its own. Kief can be placed in a device and inhaled on its own. Keep in mind that it is much more powdery than flower, so it can be burned through quickly if you’re not careful.
- Sprinkle it on top of flower. Placing a little bit of kief with your flower inside your chosen consumption device is among the most common and simple uses out there. It adds a nice bonus to your flower and helps a little bit go a long way.
- Use it to create ingestibles. Kief is great for making orally ingestible medical marijuana products because there is less plant material in kief, so it won’t affect the flavor as much. However, it’s important to decarboxylate first by baking it at a low temperature. This will convert the cannabinoids into their active forms so they can work when orally ingested.Kief is relatively versatile and can be used in any of these ways to take advantage of its significant potency. How you choose to consume is up to you and based on your preferences.
Making the most of your medical marijuana
Kief can be easy to overlook, but don’t forget about it! Whether you’re adding it to your medical marijuana flower or consuming it on its own, understanding how to collect and use this part of the plant is a great way to get the most out of your purchase. If you’re a medical marijuana patient looking for top quality products, check the menu of your local Ethos dispensary to see what’s in store. And for more information on the variety of medical marijuana products out there, check out the Ethos learning center for dozens of articles on everything medical marijuana.
