THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, might not be a new name for you. THC has dominated the ethnobotanical market like no other cannabinoids in the last few years. A psychoactive ingredient derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant, THC possesses the ability to take you to a euphoric state, which has made it into a popular recreational substance.
In addition, scientists have found that THC delivers numerous therapeutic benefits. It helps treat chronic pain and inflammation, enables you to relax, and uplifts your mood. THC can also act as a sleep aid.
Cannabis vendors have always advocated THC Vape Pen as a safer substitute for THC cigarettes. Though we have to inhale THC in both methods, the two processes are very different. This article will explore four benefits of vaping THC over smoking it.
The dried and crushed THC-rich cannabis leaves are mixed with tobacco and then rolled into joints. People who prefer smoking THC usually use these crude cigarettes. Many others also use bongs and pipes to smoke THC. On the other hand, vaping requires THC vape oils and a vaping device.
Manufacturers make vape oils by mixing THC extracts with other chemicals like propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and flavoring agents. The vape pen heats the vape oil and produces a thick, dense vapor that needs to be inhaled through a nozzle.
Why is Vaping THC Beneficial to Smoking?
- THC Vape Juices have More Pronounced Flavors
THC vape oil delivers more robust and prominent flavors than smoking. You can relish the distinct taste of the constituent terpenes and cannabinoids while vaping. On the other hand, the smoke produced by burning cannabis leaves can obliterate the flavors of the ingredients. THC vape oils are available in various flavors, such as fruity flavors (Strawberry, orange, cherry, melon, and blueberry), menthol flavors, candy flavors, and even tobacco flavors. In addition, vendors often add various flavoring agents to make vaping more enjoyable and attractive to consumers.
- Vape Pens Enable You To Control Temperature
THC vape devices are usually equipped with temperature adjustment features that enable users to control the heating temperature while vaping. You can keep the temperature regulator low if you wish to enjoy a mellow effect. On the other hand, for a more intense effect, you can keep the temperature high.
When you smoke cannabinoids, you combust THC and the other cannabinoids and terpenes at a high temperature. The high temperature can disintegrate the chemical properties of cannabis and lower its efficacy. On the other hand, vaping allows you to heat the THC vape oil slowly at a controlled temperature to protect the integrity of the cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Vaping is Considerably Safer than Smoking
Vendors introduced vaping in the market as an alternative to smoking cannabis with lesser risks. In truth, vaping does cause less severe side effects than smoking because it is used at a regulated temperature instead of burning. The controlled temperature prevents the production of harmful Carbon Monoxide, a gaseous chemical responsible for causing several health issues.
- Vaping THC is Hassle-free and Discreet
Cannabis produces a robust and coarse smell that might annoy some people. Smoking THC is also banned in many public places. THC vape pens provide a more discreet option for consuming the daily dose of THC for cannabis lovers. Also, you must carry rolling paper, dried leaves, and lighters to smoke on the go. Comparatively, vaping THC is hassle-free.
Why is Smoking THC more Harmful Than Vaping?
Smoking involves burning dried cannabis leaves and other harmful chemicals like nicotine and tar. Burning these ingredients produces toxic fumes loaded with carbon monoxide. Inhaling the fumes can damage your lung tissues. It can also lead to several chronic health issues and increase cancer risk. These are the health conditions that might arise due to chronic THC smoking:
- Air pocket formation in lungs
- Chronic Bronchitis
- Cough
- Excessive mucus production
- Increased risk of infection
- Higher risk of respiratory tract infections
- Weakened immune system
- Wheezing
Smoking cannabis can also lead to other side effects, such as:
- Difficulty in thinking
- Temporary loss of memory
- Bloodshot eyes
- Dry Mouth
- Increased appetite
- Fast heart rate
- Slowed coordination
Does Vaping THC Have Any Downside?
Though THC vaping is considered a safer alternative to smoking THC, it is not entirely devoid of risks. Scientists have found that inhaling THC vapors can also cause damage to your lung tissues. However, the impact is much less than smoking.
THC vape juices contain a chemical called Vitamin E Acetate. According to a report published by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), this ingredient is associated with several health issues. In addition, vaping THC can also lead to E-cigarette or Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury (abbreviated as EVALI), commonly known as ‘Popcorn Lungs.’
THC vape juices often contain nicotine. Inhaling nicotine-infused vapor can irritate the lung tissues. Also, nicotine is a highly addictive substance. Inhaling THC vape juices with nicotine can increase the risk of addiction. Some reports also suggest that nicotine can hamper brain development in young people. It can also lead to irreversible brain damage. Vaping THC can also damage your respiratory organs and blood vessels and increase the risk of infections.
Other Safer Ways to Consume THC:
If you want to avoid the adverse effects of THC, you may choose from other safer THC products:
- THC gummies: These are sweet edibles infused with THC. Their deliciousness and variety of use make them popular among THC lovers.
- THC Oil: These are dense liquids primarily made with THC concentrates. They are usually taken sublingually or by adding to preferred food or beverages.
- THC Tinctures: THC tinctures are liquids made with ethanol and THC extracts. They are used in the same way as THC oils.
- THC Capsules: These are gelatinous capsules containing THC concentrates.
The Bottom Line:
Vaping involves heating THC at a controlled temperature which allows for preserving the potency of the cannabinoid and terpenes. Also, THC vaping does not expose your lungs to the harmful fumes of nicotine, tar, and other cancer-causing cigarette ingredients. As a result, it decreases the risk of lung and respiratory tract damage. In addition, vaping is a discreet and hassle-free method to incorporate the therapeutic benefits of THC into your daily regime. We hope this article has helped you understand why experts consider vaping better than smoking THC.
