Smoking or Vaping – What’s better?
Smoking and vaping are both methods of inhaling natural medicines by heating herbs to create a vapour for inhalation. In its dried form, medicinal cannabis contains active compounds called cannabinoids. Heating the dried flower by smoking or vaping activates these compounds, converting them into their active forms such as tetrahydrocannabinoid (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Smoking
Smoking results in a quick onset of action, higher blood levels of THC and CBD and a shorter duration of action compared with ingested cannabis. However, with 40% of the THC dose lost during smoking it does have significant individual variability. Smoking is not supported by current legislation mainly due to the cancer-causing substances which result and then are inhaled directly into the lungs.
Vaping
Vaping also provides rapid absorption and high blood concentrations like smoking but at lower temperatures. No combustion occurs, which results in fewer toxins being produced. The first effects occur within 90 seconds, reaching a maximum effect after 15-30 minutes and then reducing off after 2 to 4 hours. Vaporising releases cannabinoids and terpenes as vapour, avoiding the combustion process. Terpenes contribute to the aroma characteristics of cannabis. This method is suitable for conditions requiring rapid relief and the dosage depends on the volume placed in the vaporisier, temperature and duration. We recommend beginners or those transitioning from smoking start with a low dose to avoid the risk of adverse effects. Vaporisation is not recommended for individuals with known respiratory or lung conditions.
What factors influence vaporisation?
The quality and quantity of herb placed in the filling Chamber has the greatest effect on vaporisation. Other important factors include the surface area of the plant materials and the vaporisation temperature:
Surface area – The finer the plant material is ground, the greater the surface area from which the active ingredients can be released.
Temperature – The higher the temperature the more active ingredients are released at once.
Benefits of Vaping
The main benefit of vaporisation is the reduced exposure to toxins as a result of the combustion of cannabinoids but also there is far less wastage and odour than smoking. Vaporisers also allow temperature control which affects the therapeutic effects of cannabis. Starting at lower temperatures (we recommend 180 degrees Celsius) and increasing slowly helps find the optimal therapeutic effect. Ideal temperatures vary based on the flower variety.
In Summary
Both smoking and vaping involve heating herbs for inhalation. Smoking results in greater health risks and more variable THC concentrations making vaporising a safer option. Also vaping allows temperature control which is important in influencing therapeutic effect of cannabinoids.
To view our range of medical vaporisers click here.