Many first-time smokers don’t understand how to inhale properly. They often smoke their weed like a regular cigarette, which leads to wasted THC and harsh lungs.
Inhaling weed correctly increases how quickly and much THC is absorbed into your bloodstream. It also prevents tar and resin from entering your lungs.
Pipes
Pipes are the quintessential cannabis smoking device and are a popular choice among many consumers due to their affordability, user-friendliness, and reusability. They come in various shapes and sizes, but they all work the same way by packing a bowl of ground weed, lighting it, and inhaling the smoke that results. They are typically smaller and more portable than bongs, making them great ways to inhale weed for on-the-go smokers or those who do not want to invest in larger glassware.
The key to using a pipe effectively is proper preparation and breathing technique. Grinding your weed into small pieces is important so it burns evenly and is easy to inhale without choking or coughing. You can use a traditional grinder, a kitchen knife, or even your hands to do the job. It is also important to practice diaphragmatic breathing, which means inhaling slowly and deeply. A 4-2-4 count is a good place to start:
- Inhale gently for four seconds.
- Hold your breath for two.
- Exhale gently for four.
A water pipe, or a bubbler, is another excellent option for smokers looking to avoid lung irritation and other harmful side effects of smoking marijuana. These devices pass the smoke through water, which cools it and filters out some of the tar produced when anything is burned. They are also easier to use than joints and blunts and can be a great alternative for new smokers who want to ease their transition into consuming cannabis.
Bongs
A bong is a glass or metal tube with a base, chamber and mouthpiece. The base holds water that cools and filters the smoke before it reaches your lungs. The mouthpiece is a tube-like piece that you put your lips on to inhale the smoke. Bongs can also have a percolator or down stem to filter the smoke further.
When smoking weed, filters reduce the amount of inhaled harmful toxins. When using a bong, it’s important to use a high-quality, clean filter to ensure the smoke is particles-free. Taking shallow, short breaths rather than deep inhales is also a good idea, as this can decrease the amount of toxins you inhale.
The water in the bong also filters out tar and fine particulates. The water may not completely remove them, but it can help lower the toxins smokers inhale.
Keeping your bong clean and using a cleaning solution to remove any buildup inside the pipes is a good idea. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent bacterial growth, leading to lung infections. It’s also important to avoid sharing your bong with other people. Research suggests that secondhand smoke can increase a person’s risk of getting pulmonary tuberculosis, a dangerous lung infection.
Vapes
Cannabis vapes heat the cannabis to a temperature that releases its cannabinoids without burning it. This is a much safer method of consumption than smoking because it does not produce smoke and toxins. Vaping is a popular option for consumers who want to avoid the harmful effects of tobacco. However, different types of weed vaporizers(opens in new tab) — dry vapes, oil vapes, wax vapes and so on — can produce various effects. Knowing how each device works and which will be most effective for your needs.
When you smoke a joint or blunt, use non-tobacco rolling papers to reduce exposure to the chemicals and toxins found in tobacco. The size of the cigarette or blunt will also determine how much you inhale, and taking shallow puffs instead of deep ones is a good way to minimize exposure.
Inhaling too much smoke can irritate the lungs, so taking shallow breaths and exhaling quickly is important. Drinking water while smoking is also a good idea to help flush out your system and stay hydrated. You can also try edibles to avoid inhaling smoke, but remember that the effects of ingested cannabis can be delayed and vary in intensity from person to person.
Bowls
A bowl is the part of a pipe or bong that holds tobacco or cannabis. It’s typically small and has a hole for airflow. A bong also has a water chamber to filter and cool smoke and a mouthpiece you inhale through. Some bowls have carb holes you can uncover while inhaling to control the airflow and help you take a deeper hit.
When it comes to smoking weed, the way you inhale it is more important than what kind of device you use. Deep inhales can increase the harmful chemicals you breathe into your lungs, so it’s best to stick with shallow, short breaths. Smoking weed too often can cause your lungs to overwork, leading to not-so-fun side effects like memory problems and decreased coordination.
Smoking weed can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience, but it’s important to practice safe and healthy smoking habits. By using a weed grinder, taking shallow, short inhales, and smoking less frequently, you can enjoy your favorite herb without causing harm to your body. It’s also important to remember that weed is not addictive, and you can safely quit smoking it anytime you choose. However, if you are struggling with addiction, speak to a professional about your options for treatment.
