What Is Thai Stick Weed?
Thai stick weed refers to a unique and traditional cannabis product that originated in the hill tribes of Northeast Thailand. These handcrafted creations consist of premium cannabis buds skewered onto bamboo sticks, often layered with hash oil and tightly wrapped in cannabis leaves. The result? A potent, slow-burning cigar-like blunt with deep cultural roots and an intense high.
The original Thai Stick was typically made with a potent local strain known as Asobinaka, cherished for its euphoric and long-lasting effects. While the methods of making Thai sticks have evolved over time, the essential process remains the same: a meticulous combination of pressure, oil, and leaf layering that compresses the buds into a compact, flavorful smoking experience.
These rare and exotic preparations gained global fame in the 1970s—and are now celebrated as part of cannabis history. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or simply curious, learning more about Thai stick weed is like uncovering a forgotten gem from weed’s golden age.
Thai Stick Weed Goes Global: A Journey from War to Weed Culture
During the Vietnam War, American soldiers stationed in Southeast Asia discovered Thai stick weed, a uniquely potent cannabis product crafted by the Hill Tribes of Northeast Thailand. Its strength and slow burn quickly caught the attention of these troops, who brought stories—and samples—back to the United States.
In the decades that followed, Thai stick weed became a symbol of exotic cannabis culture. Thousands of kilos of tightly packed sticks infused with hash oil and wrapped in leaves were smuggled into the U.S., fueling demand and curiosity. However, as the rare Asobinaka strain used in original Thai Sticks became scarce, their popularity began to fade.
Today, the legacy lives on. You’ll still find references to Thai stick weed in cannabis communities across the world, especially in Amsterdam and other weed-friendly destinations. Many enthusiasts even attempt to recreate this iconic cannabis cigar at home—just don’t forget to snap a pic and tag us if you do!
What Are Cannabis Cigars (Cannagars)?
Cannabis cigars, also known as cannagars, are premium, slow-burning cannabis products made by compressing ground weed into a dense core and wrapping it with cannabis leaves. Unlike traditional blunts, cannagars contain no tobacco and often use hemp wick for binding instead of nicotine-based wraps—making them a more natural and flavorful option.
A cannagar is essentially a modern twist on the Thai stick weed tradition. While Thai Sticks use bamboo skewers and hash oil for infusion, cannagars often skip the skewer and focus on custom molds for shaping. Both are designed for slow, luxurious sessions and an elevated smoking experience.
Thanks to their craftsmanship, cannagars are becoming increasingly popular among cannabis connoisseurs. Whether dipped in concentrate or topped with kief, these potent cigars offer a powerful hit that can last hours. If you’re intrigued by Thai stick weed, a cannagar might be your next favorite way to enjoy cannabis.
How to Make Thai Sticks at Home
If you’re curious about recreating the experience of Thai stick weed, you’ll need time, patience, and the right materials. The process involves carefully layering cannabis buds, hash oil, and leaves around a bamboo skewer to form a potent cannabis cigar.
🧰 Materials You’ll Need:
- Whole cannabis buds
- Fresh cannabis fan leaves (for wrapping)
- Hash oil or rosin (for binding)
- Bamboo skewer or stick
- Hemp cord or wick
- Parchment paper
🌀 Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Coat the bamboo stick in hash oil. This helps the buds stick firmly.
- Skewer the buds along the stick, packing them tightly but evenly.
- Tie the hemp cord around the buds, compressing them gently to form a uniform shape.
- Wrap in parchment paper and freeze for 24–48 hours. This sets the structure.
- After freezing, remove the cord carefully to keep the shape intact.
- Prepare your fan leaves (clean and semi-dry), then coat the buds with hash oil.
- Wrap the stick in leaves, ideally in three layers, for a slow, even burn.
- Re-wrap in parchment and gently heat on a warm surface (pan or hot plate) to seal.
- Wrap it again in hemp cord and parchment to begin the curing process.
This handmade process replicates the legendary potency and richness of traditional Thai stick weed. Whether you’re crafting for fun or seeking the ultimate smoking session, take your time and enjoy each step.
How to Smoke Thai Stick Weed
Now that your Thai stick weed is cured and ready, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Smoking a Thai Stick is unlike any typical joint—it’s a slow-burning, long-lasting, ultra-potent experience. Whether you’re solo or with friends, take it slow and savor the moment.
🔥 How to Smoke a Thai Stick
- Remove the skewer: Carefully slide the bamboo stick out of the center. This leaves a hollow channel that allows smoke to flow evenly.
- Light it like a cigar: Use a lighter or hemp wick and rotate the Stick gently to get an even burn.
- Take your time: Thai Sticks can burn for up to 6 hours, so there’s no rush. Rest it in an ashtray between sessions.
🍃 Smoking Methods
In a Pipe
Break off a piece of the Thai Stick and pack it into a clean pipe bowl. Light it as you would with any flower and inhale slowly. This method is perfect for sharing or for those who prefer shorter sessions.
In a Bong
Thai Stick chunks can be smoked in a bong as well. Fill the bowl with water, add your Thai Stick, and enjoy the smooth, flavorful rip. Ideal for more intense hits.
In a Joint
For a more classic experience, crumble the Thai Stick into rolling paper and twist it up like a regular joint. Keep in mind that the high potency will hit faster, so pace yourself.
⚠️ Smoke Responsibly
Thai Stick weed is not for the faint-hearted. Its high THC content and slow-burn nature mean it can creep up on you. Always smoke in a calm, safe environment—preferably with good company and no need to go anywhere soon.
Frequently Asked Questions about Thai Sticks Weeds
Are Thai Sticks still around?
Indeed, Thai Sticks continue to be available and have experienced a resurgence in popularity. Originally, Thai Sticks enjoyed a period of high demand but fell out of favor towards the end of the 1980s. However, in recent years, due to the progressive legalization of cannabis worldwide, Thai Sticks have regained prominence in the cannabis market.
How was a Thai Stick made?
The creation of a Thai Stick involves a meticulous process. It begins with skewering cannabis buds onto a stick, followed by compressing them firmly against it. Subsequently, the skewer, now laden with cannabis, is wrapped in leaves and then set to cure. The curing process typically involves refrigeration for a period of 3-4 days. After curing, the Thai Stick is ready for consumption.
How long does it take to make a Thai Stick?
The process of creating a Thai Stick, excluding the time for cannabis cultivation, traditionally takes approximately two weeks from start to finish. This includes the preparation, assembly, and curing stages.
Is Thai Stick a strain?
While there is a cannabis strain known as "Thai Stick" or "Thai Sticks," it should be clarified that this is distinct from the original strain used in traditional Thai Sticks. The authentic Thai Stick was made using the Asobinaka strain, which is now extinct.
How old are Thai Sticks?
Thai Sticks are a type of cannabis "cigar" originating from Thailand. Unfortunately, due to the clandestine nature of their historical usage, precise data regarding their age is elusive. However, the intriguing history of Thai Sticks continues to be a subject of interest, particularly as cannabis gains more widespread acceptance.
Does Thai Stick get you high?
To answer this question, it's important to distinguish between the Thai Stick strain and the Thai Stick product. The Thai Stick strain, with a THC content of around 15-20%, is potent enough to induce a substantial-high. The Thai Stick product, also referred to as a "Cannagar," is a multi-layered, oil-infused cannabis "cigar" that delivers a profoundly intense high when smoked.
Where can I buy Thai Sticks?
Thai Sticks can generally be located at cannabis dispensaries. In Amsterdam, reputable establishments such as Coffeeshop De Kade and Cannacenter Best Friends are known to carry them occasionally. Being specialty items, the quality of Thai Sticks can differ substantially, which is why it's suggested to consult customer reviews prior to committing to a purchase. It's crucial to ensure that the Thai Stick you procure is composed of 100% Sativa strain. Although it might require some effort to find a superior-quality Thai Stick, the unique and satisfying smoking experience it offers makes the quest entirely worthwhile.
What is the difference between a Thai Stick and a Cannabis Cigar?
The primary distinction between a Thai Stick and a Cannabis Cigar pertains to the time and method of their construction. A Cannabis Cigar is essentially a joint that uses cannabis leaves in place of traditional rolling paper. Thai Sticks, on the other hand, involves skewering and compressing cannabis buds onto bamboo sticks, which are then bound by hemp string and dipped in oil.
Are Thai Sticks made from an Indica or Sativa Strain?
Historically, Thai Sticks have been produced exclusively using pure Sativa strains of cannabis.
