What is Vaping Cannabis? 

Vaping cannabis is the process of inhaling vaporized cannabis through an electronic device. It is a popular alternative to smoking cannabis because it does not involve burning the plant material, which can produce harmful toxins. Vaping cannabis is also thought to be more efficient as it allows for more precise dosing and faster onset of effects than smoking. The first vaporizer pen was invented by Chinese Pharmacicst, Hon Lik in 2003 which set the tone for future vapes. The vape pen became a hit instantly when it hit the US in 2007.  

The vaping process involves heating up the cannabis using a battery-powered device, typically called a vape pen or vaporizer. The heat causes the active ingredients in the plant material to turn into vapor, which is then inhaled by the user. This method of consuming cannabis has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and discreteness compared to smoking. 

Why are People Vaping Cannabis?

Cannabis has been used for recreational purposes for centuries, but the introduction of vaping cannabis has made it more accessible. While people may respond differently to THC, some of the most common reasons people use cannabis are to attempt to medicate conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and depression. Additionally, vaping was the third most common way to consume cannabis, followed by smoking and consuming. Another reason why people vape is that they can easily use it in spaces where smoking might not be allowed due to the absence of smoke produced by the vaporizer. 

Its popularity has continued to rise over the years, overwhelmingly so among teenagers and young adults. A 2019 study found that 1 in 10 high school students reported using marijuana in their lifetime. Meanwhile, an ingredient called vitamin E acetate found in many marijuana e-cigarettes has been linked to a wave of illness and death affecting people of all ages in the U.S. 

Dangers Of Vaping Cannabis for Teens 

A study on the prevalence of adolescent cannabis vaping found that in 2018 alone, 1 in 3 grade 12 students vaped cannabis. Research has shown that vaping cannabis can lead to an increased risk of respiratory illnesses, addiction, and other long-term health problems. In addition, it can also influence a teen’s mental and emotional development with research showing that early cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing schizophrenia.   

A study that looked at the teen population specifically found that when comparing non-users to teens who smoked or vaped, these teens had an increased risks of alcohol/marijuana use, physical fighting, and attempted suicide. 

Vaping vs Smoking Cannabis 

Smoking and vaping are two different methods of consuming cannabis. While both methods use heat to release THC into the bloodstream, there are some notable differences between the two: 

Smoking 

• Smoking cannabis exposes users to harmful chemicals, like carbon monoxide and tar, that can irritate the lungs. 
• Smoking releases toxins into the air that can harm those who are exposed to it.  
• When smoking cannabis, the distinctive odor is easily smelled in the area around where the smoking takes place.  

Vaping 

• Vaping doesn’t require the user to inhale smoke so, it doesn’t put these chemicals into the body or the air. 
• Vaping allows the user to control how much THC is released into the system at once by slowly titrating the dose over time to reach the ‘target dose’.
• Because vapes can operate at such high temperatures, most of the terpenes responsible for giving the weed its distinctive smell are depleted. 

Negative Effects of Vaping Cannabis 

Vaping cannabis has become increasingly popular in recent years, but it is important to understand the potential risks associated with this method of consumption. Vaping cannabis can have serious negative effects on both physical and mental health, ranging from respiratory problems to cognitive impairment. 

These effects can include: 

• Anxiety 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting  
• Hallucinations
• Lung injuries linked to vaping 
• Cannabis use disorder 
• Severe vomiting 

It is important to take these risks into consideration and seek help if you or a loved one are experiencing these and other symptoms. 

CBD vs THC 

Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two of the most prominent compounds found in cannabis plants. While both compounds can have therapeutic properties, they differ in their effects on the body. CBD has been known to provide relief from pain, anxiety, and inflammation without any psychoactive effects. On the other hand, THC is known to produce a high and can be used recreationally as well as medically.  

Vaping is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to smoking, and it’s no surprise that CBD and THC are two of the most popular ingredients used in vape juices. While both compounds have their own unique benefits, they also have different effects on the body. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with a cannabis or marijuana addiction we have an excellent treatment facility to help with just that at Lakeview Health in Jacksonville, Florida.