In the world of cannabis, you've probably come across terms like bud, flower, and trichomes. However, there's another essential component of the cannabis plant that often goes unnoticed but has significant value—trim. In this guide, we’re going to take a look at what cannabis trim is, how it’s different from shake, and various ways you can utilize trim to make the most of your cannabis experience.

We’ll talk about:

• What is Trim?
• Shake vs. Trim: What’s the Difference?
• What Can You Do With Cannabis Trimmings?
• FAQs About Trim

Cannabis trim refers to the excess sugar leaves, stems, trichomes, and other plant materials that are removed from the cannabis buds during the cultivation and trimming process. These trimmings typically have lower levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, compared to the highly prized bud. However, that doesn't mean trim lacks value. It can still be used in a variety of creative and practical ways.

Before delving further into cannabis trim, it's important to distinguish between trim and shake. While they may seem similar, they are not the same. Shake refers to the loose bits of cannabis flower that collect at the bottom of a bag or container. These small pieces tend to break off during transportation or handling. 

On the other hand, trim is the leftover plant material intentionally removed during the trimming process. It includes stems, fan leaves, and smaller sugar leaves that surround the buds. While shake can be enjoyed similarly to any other marijuana flower, trim tends to be a bit harsher to smoke, so it’s important to know how to use your cannabis trimmings to enjoy them.

No one wants to throw away good cannabis—trim included. Despite having lower cannabinoid content, cannabis trim can still be utilized in several satisfying ways. Here are a few ideas to make the most of your trim:

One of the most popular uses for trim is to make cannabutter or cannabis cooking oil. By infusing the trim into butter or oil, you can create a versatile ingredient for cooking or baking a range of cannabis-infused edibles.

Cannabis trim can be used to create your own cannabis tea. Simply steep the trim in hot water with some fat (such as coconut oil or butter) to help extract the cannabinoids and terpenes.

Trim can also be used to make homemade cannabis tinctures. By soaking the trim in high-proof alcohol or glycerin, you can extract the cannabinoids and create a potent liquid that can be consumed orally or used in various recipes.

The first rule of cannabis trim you should learn is that you shouldn’t throw it away. Here are a few other important lessons:

Can you smoke trim?
Technically, yes, you can smoke trim. Now ask us if you want to smoke trim. That answer is a resounding no. Smoking trim is an unpleasant experience filled with harsh smoke that hurts your throat and gives you a headache. Not to mention that the potency just isn’t there, so it’s kind of not even worth it.

Does trim get you “high”?
Yes, trim does have psychoactive effects, which is the marijuana “high.” Trim can still contain cannabinoids, including THC, but in lower quantities compared to the flower bud. While the psychoactive effects may be milder, trim can still provide a pleasant experience as long as you consume it the right way.

What is it called trim?
The term "trim" originates from the trimming process itself, where excess leaves, stems, and other unwanted materials are carefully removed from the cannabis buds. The trimming process helps to enhance the visual appeal and quality of the final product while also improving the overall smoking or consumption experience.

Cannabis trim may often be overlooked, but it holds value and can be repurposed in various ways. From making cannabutter and tinctures to adding it to tea, there are plenty of creative options to make the most of your trim. Just remember that the potency of trim may be lower compared to buds, so adjust your expectations accordingly.