WHY SHOULD YOU START VAPING YOUR CANNABIS?
Vaping cannabis is often associated with expensive vapes that just don’t match the intense effect of hitting a packed bong or joint. The whole process of vaping also requires a certain grooming period, where you will need to get used to the easier and lighter way of inhaling vapour.
Often when people are faced with health issues, they turn to vaping specially to lessen the amount of heat they are drawing into their lungs. Cannabis might be safe to consume but the high heat levels of bongs, pipes and joints could cause some damage over time. Buying a Vaporiser might seem expensive in the beginning but you have to ask yourself how much your health is worth?
Today, many cannabis users are switching to vaping, and within a short time they’ve noticed an improvement in their lung health. Studies have shown that vaping cannabis herb is safer than any other form of inhaling cannabis (Volteface). However, we are still uncertain of the long-term effects of vaping cannabis oil, which contains high percentages of THC.
Furthermore, vaping can help with the quitting of tobacco, as you will no longer need to use it as a mix to enjoy your cannabis.
IS VAPING CANNABIS HEALTHY FOR ME?
The primary advantage of vaping is that it doesn’t demand an open flame to release the cannabinoids.
By now, most of us are aware of the dangers associated with smoking. Vaping cannabis uses convection heating to heat the herb to the chosen temperature and then release the desired cannabinoids. Just like tobacco smoke, cannabis smoke is an irritant to the throat and lungs and can cause the user to cough heavily during use. Once vaped, the cannabinoids contained in the vapour will make cannabis much healthier because you avoid particles that irritate the lungs. Or, as Volteface report it, “Unlike a joint or bong, vaporizers heat cannabis to temperatures that release cannabinoids – the good stuff secreted by cannabis flowers that get you high and provide relief to an array of symptoms including pain, nausea, anxiety, and inflammation—in a fine mist without creating the toxins associated with combustion.”
IS IT SAFE TO VAPE CANNABIS?
Current science supports the view that vaporising dry herbs is safer than smoking (Forbes). If you do it right, it will become a far more pleasant form of consumption compared with traditional methods. There is a certain learning curve to the process but it comes with greatly improved benefits to your health. This method of consuming cannabis is becoming wildly popular and is quickly becoming the healthy option for many.
Vaping cannabis flower is far healthier for the lungs and delivers 95% of the cannabinoids into your lungs which absorb them within a few seconds. Many cannabis consumers report the flavour of vaping cannabis is far superior and more intense than smoking since it’s much cleaner than combusting the flower. Users tend to inhale a lot of smoke when inhaling from a joint, so the cannabis loses flavour as you tend to heat up your tongue and airways.
WHAT IS A DRY HERB VAPORISER AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Vaporisers can vary in size but essentially the material is placed inside a chamber, or oven, that can reach temperatures well over 200C. Rather than burning the material, vaporisers heat the cannabis and release its active ingredients in the form of vapour.
BENEFITS OF VAPING
FLAVOURSOME
Vaporisers offer a purer effect than combusted cannabis and as the vapour contains fewer toxins it’s packed with terpenes and has a much flavourful taste. This is one of the main reasons people start, and stay vaping, as there is no other form of consuming cannabis that produces this equivalent flavour.
LESS ODOUR
Cannabis has a strong smell and when burnt can produce huge amounts of second-hand smoke. Vaporisers aren’t totally odourless but they do minimise the smell and smoke as the cannabis is not burnt, it’s heated.
CLEANER TO USE
You will not have to carry rolling papers and a lighter anymore and the ashtray will never again be spilt on the carpet. In general, all you need to do is keep the vaporiser charged and loaded with herbs and you’re ready to go.
WASTES LESS CANNABIS
Especially when compared to pipes and joints, vaporisers require less cannabis to achieve the desired effects. The doses can be made stronger, so you do not need to inhale as much to achieve your level of satisfaction.
HEALTH BENEFITS
The upfront cost of purchasing a vaporiser can be more expensive but with new products arriving on the market every year, vaporisers have come down in price immensely. With vaping, you will notice your lung health improve within a very short time and how much is this worth to you?
PORTABLE
Now that portable vaporisers are efficient and widely available, they can be used in parks and public spaces, outside of work, in the home, or other places where smoke is not tolerated. Be mindful of smoke free zones because vaping is likely considered smoking in these areas.
CONS TO VAPING
EXPENSIVE
Many people perceive a vape as initially expensive to purchase. Choose a cheaper vape to start with and upgrade to a better one once you have decided this method of consuming is for you. In MULL you will find an entry level vape, the Pulsar APX2, for $150.
CLEANING THE VAPORISER
As with most equipment, you will need to clean your vape regularly in order for it to work effectively. This process can be bothersome, but it’s definitely easier to clean than a bong 🙂
PORTABLES HAVE ODOUR AFTER USE
This is one downside. There is a smell that accompanies heated cannabis resin, but you can easily buy smell proof cases that will mask this smell. Regular cleaning will assist with this and ensure a smell free vape.
TYPES OF DRY HERB VAPORISERS
PORTABLE VAPORISERS
With a huge range of portable vaporisers now available, these vapes have become very popular for their compact, handheld design that can easily slip into most pockets or small bags. These vapes utilise an internal battery for power and require charging. Portable vapes are often very discreet and can be used in most settings, where cannabis use is allowed.
DESKTOP VAPORISERS
If you’re a strictly at-home user then these superior powered vapes are well suited as they will maximise the use of your cannabis. Desktop vaporisers are much larger and plug directly into a power outlet and can be used for larger crowds and longer sessions. These options generally cost more but are built to last for many years and most companies offer a two-year warranty on their products.
VAPORISER HEATING TYPES
CONDUCTION VAPORISERS
These are typically less expensive, easier to use and more energy efficient than other types of vapes. They’re great for medical patients who prefer taking small draws rather than large hits of cannabis. However, conduction vapes tend to burn your herb in between hits and lose taste much quicker.
CONVECTION VAPORISERS
Convection vaporisers are usually desktop products that use heated air to produce vapour from the cannabis. The heat source is separate from the chamber and only heats the herb as the air passes through it. These vapes are often more expensive but are well suited for connoisseur-level experiences, as it produces the tastiest vapour on the market.
HYBRID VAPORISERS
These vapes are perfect for medical patients, as they preheat the herb to a lower temperature, and then heat the incoming air at a higher temperature to finish. Hybrid vaporisers have become very popular with the current market, as they are consistent and easy to use. These vapes use cannabis very efficiently, all while fully extracting all the goodness from your herbs in less time.
HOW TO VAPE YOUR DRY HERBS?
STEP 1: GRIND YOUR HERBS
You can vaporise whole buds but grinding produces the best results and a stronger overall effect. The type of grind you choose will depend on the type of vaporiser, but generally, conduction vaporisers perform best with a finer grind, while convection vaporisers work best with a coarser grind. If you are ever in doubt, a medium grind will sort you out.
In MULL we use a Waterfall Grinder, that produces a fluffy grind and has a dedicated tray to collect the ultra-fine kief.
STEP 2: LOAD THE VAPORISER WITH HERBS
Use your ground herbs to fill the oven in your vaporiser. For conduction vaporisers you must fill it to the brim and pack it down tightly until it’s packed to the top.
Convection and hybrid vaporisers are the exact opposite, as they don’t like tight packs. You will instead fill the oven (where the herb goes) loosely until there’s a small mound and it’s flush with the rim. You can easily use too much with this method so go slow until you know your desired amount.
STEP 3: TURN ON THE VAPORISERS
Vaporisers have many different power settings, so it’s wise to read the instructions before use, and if you don’t like to read, go watch some videos of someone else using the vape. This will help you gain a better understanding and shorten the time it takes to learn the most effective way to use your vape.
STEP 4: THE TEMPERATURE
Low-level vaping temperatures – 187°C and below
This temperature range produces the tastiest vapour and is perfect for maximising the flavour of your cannabis. The vapour is light and smooth, and you will enjoy all the medicinal benefits of your cannabis, without any irritation to your lungs. If you’re not sure what temperature to be using yet, this is a safe starting point. The cannabis effect will also be weaker as not to induce over intoxication.
Mid-level vaping temperatures – 187°C to 198°C
This temperature will please most users as the vapour is noticeably thicker and produces a satisfying hit that packs a punch. This setting is perfect for regular users who want a stronger effect from their cannabis without compromising on the flavour.
High-level vaping temperatures – 198°C and above
This is the end of flavour town but will produce thick heavy smoke vapour, similar to a joint, although the cannabis has only been heated. Your first few hits will be intense and the similarities to smoking joints will be noticeable. This is a good option if you are converting from a bong and need and strong fast hit of cannabis.
STEP 5: INHALATION OF YOUR VAPORISED CANNABIS
Once your Vaporiser reaches your desired temperature it is time to enjoy your herbs. You should start with a slow and relaxed inhalation of a few seconds and decide your desired draw from there. The vapour will be easier on your throat and you will notice the incredible flavour on your first pull. There can be a delayed effect on some strains of cannabis so it’s best to wait a few minutes until you have another vape.
STEP 6: POWER OFF & CLEAN THE VAPE
After you have finished with your session, turn your vape off and let it cool for about a minute. Parts of vaporisers can be quite hot to the touch after use so be careful with where you handle it. Some patients like to leave herbs in their vape for later use, otherwise throw your vaped bud away to avoid any smells. Use a cleaning brush and clear out the oven while it’s still warm and ensure you give a monthly deep clean for maximum performance and shelf life.
SOME TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VAPERS
SMOKING IN PUBLIC – RULES
You may wonder if the same smoking rules apply to vaporisers. You need to be aware of where you can and cannot vape in public. It’s reasonable to say, if you can’t smoke somewhere, you probably also can’t vape there. If you’re unsure, it’s best to ask around or just step outside and find a quiet space to enjoy your session.
THE QUALITY OF YOUR CANNABIS
Vaporisers are only half of the equation, as quality cannabis will feel and taste better while providing the best overall vaping experience. It’s best to keep your herbs in an airtight container and store them in a dark, cool environment to maintain their freshness.
WATCH TUTORIALS
The best way to get to know your vape is through video tutorials. A small search will reveal the many users who have already figured out how to maximise the efficiency of your vape. This method will have you vaping like a pro in no time at all.
CONCLUSION
Purchasing a vaporiser is definitely worth it, as it makes cannabis consumption a much more satisfying experience which is beneficial for both relaxation and improvement of your lung health. Vaping also uses less cannabis so you may even save your money in the long run. Health-conscious people who care about their physical well-being are now choosing vaping as their method of consuming cannabis. Contact Us for more information.
