Herb grinder

What is a grinder?

A grinder aka herb grinder or spice grinder is a device for shredding herbs. They consist of at least two cylindrical parts which can be rotated in opposite directions. In doing so the contents between them are shredded according to the density and sharpness of the teeth within. More sophisticated grinders consist of three or more parts. The crushed material gets filtered through a screen to seperate leaves and woody parts from the desired pollen or crystals.

Herbs, lumps of tobacco and other substances dedicated for smoking are most easily chopped up or "ground" through the use of a grinder or herb mill.
These devices come in different styles, materials and sizes. Wood, metal, plastic etc...

The most popular type of grinder is likely to be filter grinders with pollen compartment - they do not only grind down the herbs but also filter them through a fine screen whereafter they get collected in a compartment and are almost ready-to-smoke.

Preparing herbs for grinding

If you want to grind herbs, depending on the variety, usually you'll have to do some preparing beforehand. This process includes removing the branches, which are mostly abundantly covered with leaves, and then drying the herb for a few days/weeks depending on the available space and the climate situation. Removing the branches can be done with scissors, a knife or with your hands.

Grinding herbs can increase the effect, because the inflorescence is cut open which leads to a better distribution of active components, perfectly balanced mix ratio and unobstructed air flow.