Smoking is one of the oldest methods of cannabis consumption. Despite a vast array of new products appearing on dispensary shelves, including all kinds of edibles, concentrates, and tinctures, smoking is still one of the most popular options. One of the main concerns regarding this method, however, is that it’s not exactly the best for your lungs. You do have options, though. Keep reading for expert insights into the healthiest way to smoke weed.
The Health Effects of Smoking Cannabis
While smoking cannabis provides some of the fastest effects of any other method of consumption, it also comes with some harmful side effects. You see, when you smoke, you’re not just inhaling the beneficial compounds. You’re also breathing in ash, carcinogens, and other contaminants. The effects are similar to smoking cigarettes and can include increased coughing and more frequent lung illnesses or infections.
Healthier Ways to Smoke
Now, if you enjoy smoking cannabis, this doesn’t mean you have to give it up. There are healthier ways to smoke. Here are a few options to consider:
Use a Filter
Use a filter when you smoke. For a joint, folded cardstock is common, but a carbon filter is best. An activated carbon filter keeps more contaminants from entering your lungs, helping to ensure you only get the good stuff. They can also improve the overall flavor of your hits.
Try a Bong
If you’re open to trying alternative smoking methods, one option to try is taking a hit from a bong. When you inhale, the smoke travels into the water-filled base of the device before it reaches your lungs. The water filters out ash and other contaminants, giving you smoother, cleaner smoke.
Dab Concentrates
If you like more potent hits, you could give dabbing a try. No, not the dance. We’re talking about smoking cannabis concentrates with a dab rig. After you heat the nail, you apply a small amount of your chosen concentrate to it and inhale through the mouthpiece. Much like smoking from a bong, you get smoother, cleaner hits. Some say dabbing is the cleanest way to smoke.
Vape Instead of Smoke
A vape pen gives you a similar experience to smoking a joint. The main difference is vape pens vaporize your oil, concentrate, or bud instead of combusting it. Where combustion from lighting a joint leads to ash and carcinogens, vaporizing uses lower temperatures to convert the material in the cartridge or tank into an inhalable vapor. It’s cleaner, smoother, and doesn’t have the same effects on your lungs. As a bonus, it also doesn’t produce the same smell. You can “smoke” in a much more discreet manner.
Smoke Weed with Fewer Harmful Effects
Smoking remains one of the most popular methods of cannabis use. It’s classic, it’s easy, and it provides quick results. If you’re worried about the health of your lungs, though, you might be thinking you’ll have to give it up. With these healthier ways to smoke, you can protect your lungs while still enjoying your favorite form of use.
