There are more methods of consuming cannabis today than ever before. Between edibles, dabbing, vaping, topicals, and more, it can be easy to feel a little lost. That’s why here at Substance, we’ll be explaining the basics of several methods of cannabis ingestion. Today, we will be covering a relatively new and technologically advanced method: vaporizing, or vaping.
What is it?
What separates smoking from vaporizing is the temperature difference. When you smoke weed, what you’re technically doing is combusting it. Cannabis begins combusting at a temperature of 446 degrees Fahrenheit, while it begins vaporizing at a temperature of 284 degrees. Both of these processes release the cannabinoids and terpenes that give weed its punch.
When we talk about vaping, we aren’t just talking about flower. It is also possible to vaporize concentrates, either through a vape pen with refillable concentrate cartridges, or with a larger vape pen that can vaporize individual concentrates usually used for dabbing, like waxes, oils, and shatters.
Vaping should have a similar onset to smoking. Although it most likely will not hit you instantaneously in the same way that smoking often does, the delay should not be too much longer. The high should last about the same amount of time: one to two hours. Potency, meanwhile, will of course depend on what it is that you’re vaporizing. Vaping concentrates will likely be more potent than flower.
Many people find the high itself quite different. Some describe it as more clear and smooth; others simply feel more stoned. As with any form of cannabis consumption, the effects vary significantly from one individual to another.
How is it different than smoking?
Why vape your weed instead of smoking it? Some people may prefer vaping for its particular high. Others enjoy that it does not produce nearly as strong of a smell as smoking. Still others find that the lower temperature of vaping allows them to taste more of those flavorful terpenes. Some find it to simply be less irritating to their respiratory system, and it is possible that vaping flower may be healthier than smoking it.
It’s always important to keep in mind that everyone’s system and tastes are different. Whatever your preference, we encourage to explore and find what works for you.
