In the process of digging deeper into the realms of cannabis and all it offers, you will notice there are many ways to consume it and each has its own set of benefits and things to consider. Two common methods are smoking weed (which is also known as marijuana) and using CBD vape juice. They both can give therapeutic benefits, yet they differ in terms of effects, usage, and health concerns. This blog will explain these differences so that you can decide which product may be more appropriate for you.
What is Smoking Weed?
Using weed by smoking means you burn the cannabis flowers to produce smoke for inhalation. This method of consumption makes it possible to take in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the main psychoactive substance in cannabis, and also a wide range of other cannabinoids and terpenes present in the plant.
Benefits of Smoking Weed
- Full Spectrum Effects: Smoking gives all cannabinoids and terpenes in one go (called the entourage effect) which some users consider to be a boost for therapeutic properties.
- Immediate Effects: Almost right after inhaling THC you feel its effects, this makes it easy to control the dosage.
Drawbacks of Smoking Weed:
- Health Risks: Combustion of plant material produces tar and other harmful chemicals similar to those found in tobacco smoke, which can affect lung health.
- Strong Psychoactive Effects: THC can cause significant psychoactive effects, which might not be desirable for all users, especially those sensitive to THC or those who must remain clear-headed for activities like driving or working.
What is CBD Vape Juice?
CBD vape juice or CBD e-liquid is a product specially formulated for vaporizers and e-cigarettes. It consists of cannabidiol (CBD) which is typically extracted from hemp and is renowned for its therapeutic benefits without the usual side effects of THC.
Benefits of using CBD Vape Juice:
- CBD is non-psychoactive which means it does not give you the “high” that THC does so it can help those who need relief without the cognitive side effects. Diseases like lung cancer, and many other respiratory diseases caused by smoking, can be prevented when you are using CBD vape juice
- Controlled Dosage: Majority of CBD vape juices are just like that so it is easier for you to manage its dosage.
Drawbacks of CBD Vape Juice:
- Equipment Required: You need a vaporizer or e-cigarette to use CBD vape juice, which can be an initial investment.
- Regulation and Quality Concerns: The CBD market is less regulated than traditional cannabis markets, which can make it challenging to find high-quality, accurately labeled products.
Smoking Weed vs. CBD Vape Juice: Key Differences
- Psychoactive Effects: THC contained in smoked weed is a psychoactive substance to the maximum, while CBD vape juice is selected for its no psychoactivity.
- Health Implications: When smoking weed you are exposed to the smoke of burnt plant matter which can harm lung health. On the other hand, vaping is considered a cleaner alternative since it heats the material but does not burn it.
- Legal Status: Many regions harbor more restrictive regulations on the smoking of cannabis than on the use of CBD products. Hemp-derived CBD (with less than 0.3% THC) is federally legal in many places, USA being one of them, and thus more accessible.
- Onset of Effects: They both work pretty fast yet the instant effect when you smoke weed can be more powerful because of high levels of THC.
- Social Acceptance and Discretion: In general, using CBD vape is more socially acceptable and discreet compared to smoking weed which can emit a strong odour and smoke.
Conclusion
Choosing between smoking weed and using CBD vape juice often comes down to personal needs and preferences. If you’re looking for quick relief with psychoactive effects and are less concerned about health risks associated with smoke, traditional cannabis smoking might be suitable. On the other hand, if you’re interested in the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the high, and prefer a cleaner inhalation method, CBD vape juice could be the better option.
Always consider legal implications and consult with healthcare providers when incorporating substances like THC or CBD into your routine, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.