What is Kifi and what to do with it?
Have you ever wondered what those sticky crystals covering marijuana buds are called? You probably already know: they are called trichomes, and they are where the precious cannabinoids are stored. A dry extraction of these crystals can produce either a high-quality material or a poor one, depending on how the plants have been handled up to that point.
In Spain, low-quality Kifi, originating from Morocco, extracted from plants with poor genetics and sun-dried using less-than-ideal methods, is commonly known. However, homemade Kifi, obtained with the help of screens or sifters, can be excellent.
What is Kifi?
Kifi refers to the resin glands that contain the terpenes and cannabinoids which make Cannabis so unique. Forget about the low-quality Kifi you’ve seen in Morocco; this one is much better as long as it comes from good genetics, properly grown, dried and cured correctly.
A good Kifi should represent only the bulbous tip of the trichome on a Cannabis bud, with the resin itself being just one part of what makes up a trichome, also known as a “hair”.
Many plants and algae have external trichomes for specific evolutionary purposes; it is not exclusive to Cannabis. For example, some carnivorous plants use sticky trichomes to trap their prey, whereas Cannabis uses its trichomes as a defense mechanism, deterring herbivores by delivering an intense psychoactive experience upon ingestion, which disorients the animal and prevents it from consuming the rest of the plant. The strong, distinctive aroma of the resin also attracts pollinating insects, aiding reproduction through pollen transfer.
How to Extract Kifi from Marijuana
If you enjoy marijuana extracts but are on a tight budget, sifted Kifi can be an excellent option. Due to the high concentration of terpenes and cannabinoids in the resin glands, separating the Kifi crystals from the plant material is an effective way to consume Cannabis, as it reduces the amount of charred material, which is harmful to the human body.
Extracting Kifi is simple. In this article, we explain how to obtain pure Kifi, free of unwanted plant material—unlike traditional methods in Morocco. Using a pollinator grinder is by far the easiest way to extract the concentrated resin, as it collects the resin glands in its lower compartment when grinding the marijuana.
For large-scale Kifi extraction, it is advisable to use other appropriate tools, such as silk screens, which allow you to separate Kifi from the plant material by sifting the buds.
You can also purchase special sifters. Kifi typically measures between 75 and 125 microns, which makes it challenging to separate all the resin from the plant matter, as some plant remnants may pass through along with the resin. To ensure that you collect the purest and cleanest Kifi possible, it is best to use several sifters with different micron sizes to obtain various quality grades.
When purchasing sifters, pay attention to the number of wires or threads per inch (LPI, lines per inch). The higher the LPI, the less material will pass through because there is more mesh per surface area. For sifting Kifi, the best sifters typically range between 80 and 270 LPI.
What to Do with Kifi
Now that you know what Kifi is and how to obtain it, what can you do with it? There are several ways to make use of this Cannabis extract to enhance the final product, maintaining or even increasing its potency and refining its appearance.
The most recommended approach is to store it with as little oxygen as possible, since exposure to air can deteriorate the material. There are two main options for storage:
The first option is to store it unpressed. Some consumers prefer Kifi in a powder form, as it is easier to dose, offers a more original taste, and produces a less narcotic effect. In this case, choose a hermetically sealed metal container or one that seals perfectly, and open it as little as possible.
The second option is to press the Kifi, essentially creating hashish. This method yields a product that is easier to store in the open air, although it is still best kept in an airtight container. Pressing the Kifi also produces a more narcotic effect, as the THC breaks down more effectively when the resin glands are ruptured.
When consuming Kifi, you can smoke it in a traditional joint, vaporize it with a vaporizer, use it in a bong or pipe, or even ingest it by adding it to a cannabis recipe to boost its potency.
Ideal Varieties for Making Kifi
Maroc
Since Kifi is internationally renowned in Morocco, why not use genetics from that country? The Maroc marijuana comes from there and has been optimized by the Female Seeds team to reach its full potential. It is ideal for any type of resin extraction such as Kifi.
Pakistan Chitral Kush
This pure Chitral line from Pakistan is of the highest quality and very resilient. Selected by the Cannabiogen bank, it is a treasure that has been refined over many years. Pakistan Chitral Kush is perfect for Kifi extraction.
In general, the most appreciated varieties for obtaining this type of Cannabis extract are:
Afghan Marijuana – Gelato Marijuana – Kush Marijuana – Nepalese Marijuana – Pakistani Marijuana
Now that you know everything there is to know about Kifi, how about learning more about resin extractions? Visit our article on all types of marijuana resin extractions.
Image credit: Wonderlandforever
Additional Information and Scientific Evidence
The formation of trichomes in Cannabis is a complex biological process, essential for the synthesis and storage of cannabinoids and terpenes. Studies have shown that the accumulation of these compounds in the resin glands is fundamental for the final product’s quality.
For example, Mahlberg and Kim (2004) demonstrated that cannabinoids accumulate in glandular trichomes, while Russo (2011) explained how the synergy between terpenes and cannabinoids enhances the “entourage effect,” improving both aroma and flavor. Additionally, ElSohly (2017) emphasized the importance of extraction methods to preserve the purity and quality of the resin.
Practical Tips for Optimal Kifi Extraction
- Genetics and cultivation: Use plants with good genetics that are properly grown, dried, and cured to maximize trichome production.
- Appropriate equipment: Invest in a pollinator grinder and sifters with various micron sizes to obtain pure, clean Kifi.
- Environmental control: Maintain optimal temperature and humidity conditions during cultivation to promote trichome formation.
- Storage: Store Kifi in airtight containers to minimize oxygen exposure and preserve its properties.
References
- Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1363. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between high-quality and low-quality Kifi?
The difference lies in the plant genetics, cultivation techniques, and extraction method. High-quality Kifi comes from well-grown, properly dried and cured plants, and is extracted using methods that minimize contamination with plant material.
Is it possible to extract Kifi at home without professional equipment?
Yes, you can extract Kifi at home using a pollinator grinder and sifters with different micron sizes. However, the final quality will depend on careful cultivation and controlled extraction processes.
What precautions should be taken when storing Kifi?
It is essential to store it in an airtight container, preferably metal, and to minimize exposure to oxygen to preserve its properties.
What are the key factors influencing the quality of Kifi?
The plant’s genetics, cultivation conditions (lighting, temperature, and humidity), and the extraction method are crucial for obtaining high-quality Kifi.
Founder of Experiencia Natural, creative and entrepreneur, designer, master in grower and marketing. For a normalization of all plants and substances, giving priority to patients and users.
