By Dr. Demetria Bates, DNP, FNP-BC, CCE

Smoking cannabis has been the primary consumption method for many decades, but in recent years cannabis consumers have been moving away from traditional smoking methods to dry herb vaporization. This transition is driven by scientific evidence that focuses on the various benefits of vaporizing cannabis.

The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health suggests the use of alternative methods (1) of cannabis inhalation techniques such as vaporizers as opposed to smoking to avoid combustion and reduce respiratory problems.

In this article, we will discuss how vaporizing cannabis can reduce the potential harm associated with cannabis inhalation including benefits, risks, and effects.

What is Dry Herb Vaporization?

Dry herb vaporization or cannabis vaporization is a process that involves heating cannabis using a temperature-controlled device that creates vapor via conduction or convection depending on its heating system. The user then puts cannabis in the heating chamber and turns the device on which heats the cannabis resulting in a vapor that contains the flavor, cannabinoids, and other cannabis elements. This vapor then travels into the mouthpiece of the device where it is inhaled and consumed by the user.

Health Benefits of Vaporizing vs. Smoking

Smoking, regardless of the substance or method, has the potential to produce harmful byproducts such as tar and carcinogens due to combustion in comparison to vaporizing. With consistent smoking, these byproducts may lead to respiratory illness. Research (2) shows that 82.8% of medical cannabis users perceived vaporizing as less harmful and reported fewer respiratory symptoms compared to those who smoke cannabis. Another research (3) study reveals that cannabis smokers report a higher frequency of coughing, mucus production, wheezing, and bronchitis in comparison to non-smokers.

Smoking or vaporizing cannabis has not been linked to cancer which could be associated with the anticancer properties within the cannabis plant. This can be seen in a study (4) that showed no association for the development of lung or upper airway cancer from minimal or moderate cannabis use. Several animal and cell-cultured research studies (5) have found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other cannabinoids have anticancer effects on varying types of cancers to include but not limited to lung, breast, colon and prostate.

Regardless of the administration method, we know that cannabis works by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors to provide medicinal effects for varying chronic conditions.

Controlled Dosage and Effects

One of the main features of dry herb vaporizers is the precise temperature control to receive the desired dosage and effect. This feature influences which cannabinoids and terpenes are released for ultimate medicinal or recreational benefit. For instance, lower temperatures (around 315°F or 157°C) might emphasize the release of terpenes with aromatic and flavor profiles, while higher temperatures (around 375°F or 190°C) could facilitate the release of specific cannabinoids. 

Medicinal users can achieve consistent relief all while avoiding the risk of inhaling harsh smoke. One of the challenges with cannabis consumption, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with smoking, is just that, smoking and inhaling techniques. Smoking can lead to quick and intense effects, often making it difficult to gauge the appropriate amount. Vaporizers release vapor more slowly compared to rapid inhalation of combustion smoke. This slower release can make it easier for users to gauge their level of wanted effects.

Cannabis vaporizers preserve the natural flavors and terpenes, the aromatic compounds found in cannabis. Terpenes play a significant role in the overall cannabis experience which aids in the medicinal or recreational desired effects, known as the entourage effect. Research depicts that alpha-pinene and beta-pinene blocks the activity of acetylcholinesterase in the brain which results in medicinal properties that would help with memory or cognitive dysfunction caused by chronic heavy THC use; myrcene is known to have analgesic effects, but also sedative effects if concentration levels are greater than 0.5%; limonene has a citrus aroma and its effects may increase the level of serotonin and dopamine, resulting in antianxiety, anti-stress, and sedative effects of cannabis and linalool acts as an anxiolytic due to its aromatic floral and lavender scent; beta-caryophyllene has a pepper and spicy aroma that is responsible for anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, analgesic, anti-cancer, antifungal, antibacterial, antidepressant, antioxidant, antianxiety, and neuroprotective effects (Sommano, S. R., Chittasupho, C., Ruksiriwanich, W., & Jantrawut, P., 2020). Now that you understand terpene effects, it is imperative to utilize dry herb vaporizers to maximize your overall health and well-being.

Reduced Odor and Discretion

Another feature of dry herb vaporizing is the minimal odor in comparison to traditional cannabis smoking. Vaporizers produce a vapor that dissipates more quickly than smoke which is less noticeable and makes vaporizing cannabis a discreet option in social and public settings.

Potential Drawbacks and Risks

Of course, the cost of dry herb vaporizers may deter some users, but a careful review of different vaporizers and knowing the information you know now, allows you to make an informed decision about purchasing dry herb vaporizers. There is a learning curve associated with effectively using these devices, such as learning the temperatures of cannabinoids and terpenes for the desired effect, grinding cannabis to ensure even vaporization, and device maintenance, just to name a few.

However, the long-term benefits of health and wellness often outweigh these drawbacks. Cannabis vaporization presents a modern and health-conscious approach to consumption. Read Jay-Jay’s success story (5) "Dry Herb Vaporization for Healthy Lungs - Clearing the Air" to get more information on the benefits of dry herb vaporizing.

Backed by scientific research, this method offers various advantages versus smoking, from reduced health risks to enhanced control over odor, dosage, and effects. As technology continues to advance, vaporizers are ready to revolutionize the cannabis experience, providing a safer and more enjoyable alternative consumption method for both medicinal and recreational users.

References

1. Chaiton, M., Kundu, A., Rueda, S., & Di Ciano, P. (2022). Are vaporizers a lower-risk alternative to smoking cannabis?. Canadian Journal of Public Health, 113(2), 293–296.

2. Aston, E. R., Scott, B., & Farris, S. G. (2019). A qualitative analysis of cannabis vaporization among medical users. Experimental and clinical psychopharmacology, 27(4), 301–308.

3. Shiplo, S., Asbridge, M., Leatherdale, S. T., & Hammond, D. (2016). Medical cannabis use in Canada: Vaporization and modes of delivery. Harm Reduction Journal, 13(1), 30.

4. Tashkin D. P. (2013). Effects of marijuana smoking on the lung. Annals of the American Thoracic Society, 10(3), 239–247.

5. O’Brien, Jay Jay. “Dry Herb Vaporization for Healthy Lungs - Clearing the Air.” Dry Herb Vaporization for Healthy Lungs - Clearing the Air, Effective Cannabis Newsletter, www.effectivenewsletter.com/blog/Clearing%20the%20Air?cid=a4cc4c0a-6178-4f36-b7ce-41a14d5ef8d7. Feburary 09, 2023. 

About Dr. Demetria Bates, DNP, FNP-BC, CCE

Dr. Demetria Bates, DNP, FNP-BC, CCE, is a distinguished healthcare professional with a passion for bridging the gap between cannabis medicine and Western medicine. She is the founder and CEO of Bates Virtual Health & Consultants, LLC which provides medical card services exclusively for Virginia residents. She works with individuals seeking to understand the integration of cannabis medicine for health and wellness. 

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Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.