Walk into a crowd, and you can probably find someone vaping. And they may not be vaping tobacco. Cannabis vaping has become extremely popular, especially among users who want to enjoy cannabis discreetly or on the go.
There are many ways to vape, and it can be a little confusing to the uninitiated. To help you understand the ins and outs, here is everything you need to know about cannabis vaping.
What is Cannabis Vaping?
Vaping is the process of heating cannabis flowers or concentrates to a temperature that produces an inhalable vapor. Typically, a vaporization device will heat to 356 to 374 Fahrenheit, just below combustion point.
Vaping works by convection or conduction rather than direct flame. The lower heat releases therapeutic compounds from the cannabis without burning, making vaping cleaner, more efficient, and less smelly than smoking cannabis flowers.
As a result, people who vape often report improved flavor and scent when they consume cannabis.
What Can You Vape?
Both flower and cannabis concentrates can be vaped, although usually not in the same device. Vape concentrates are far more potent than flower, allowing users to get an intense dose from a few puffs.
Typically, cannabis consumers will use either oil cartridges or wax for vaping. Oil cartridges come prefilled with vape juice and usually contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) along with cannabis terpenes to enhance the flavor. Wax is a soft concentrate that can look like lip balm or honeycomb.
It’s important to always purchase cartridges from a reputable source to ensure safety.
Types of Vaporizers
Vaping devices range from handheld batteries that look like USBs to large "Volcano" bags designed to balloon with vapor.
Vape pen
The most popular type of vape is the disposable pen, which comes pre-filled with cannabis oil or distillate. These pens are discreet and convenient, but don't offer the same level of control as a desktop vaporizer.
Non-disposable vape batteries are equally discreet, but slightly less convenient as you need to rebuy cartridges. Disposable pens are designed to be tossed when used.
Portable vape
Portable vapes are used for concentrates or cannabis inflorescences, depending on the construction. The most expensive portable vapes are hybrids and can handle dry herbs and most concentrate types.
Desktop vaporizer
Desktop vaporizers are designed for home use, with larger chambers and more precise temperature control. They are often used for group sessions or to vape ground buds. They are the most expensive option, but many believe they offer the best experience.
Benefits of Cannabis Vaping
Cannabis vaping has many benefits over smoking. Here are a few:
- Discreetness - Vaping emits significantly less odor than smoking, making it easier to consume cannabis in public or at home without detection.
- More efficient - Vaping is more efficient than smoking, as there’s no combustion, and the vapor can contain up to 95% of active cannabinoids.
- Healthier option - Vaping cannabis is less irritating to your throat and lungs because vapor is typically cooler than smoke. Plus, it contains fewer toxins than smoking cannabis flowers.
- Better flavor - Many vapers enjoy the improved flavor that vaping provides over smoking.
Disadvantages
Cannabis vaping isn't the right choice for every user, however. There are a few drawbacks to consider:
- Potency: Vaping cannabis flower doesn't introduce potency concerns, but vaping concentrates does. Concentrates can be very strong if you're not used to the effects of cannabis.
- Price: Vaping devices are often more expensive than traditional smoking pieces and require regular maintenance.
- Safety: Buying cartridges or vape pens from an untrustworthy source could be dangerous. Plus, since many vape products contain propylene glycol as an agent, vaping can potentially irritate the lungs.
- Flavor: Flavor can be a boon or a disadvantage depending on your cannabis consumption style. While many believe vaping tastes better, others prefer a drag of real smoke.
Final Thoughts
Vaping cannabis is a great way to enjoy powerful and therapeutic effects with more control and fewer odors. Whether you prefer disposable pens or large desktop vapes, there's a device for everyone. Just shop around for the right one that suits your needs.
