Smoking is probably the most well-known form of cannabis consumption. It’s often the first thing that many people think of when they hear the word “cannabis.” Despite the development of a variety of different ways to use cannabis, such as vaping, tinctures, edibles, and capsules, smoking remains one of the most popular. Here are some of the pros of smoking weed that might explain why.
There’s More Than One Way to Smoke
Typically, the first thing that people think about when it comes to smoking cannabis is a joint. While it’s a common method, it’s not the only one available. You can also smoke using a pipe or bong.
It’s Easy
Smoking is one of the easiest ways to ingest cannabis, particularly when it’s in the form of a joint. All you have to do is grind your chosen flower, roll it, light it, and inhale. It’s very beginner-friendly.
Pipes are also very easy to use. All you have to do is grind your flower, pack it into the bowl, and light it up. Bongs require a little more practice, but the water inside the bong provides some additional benefits, such as cooling the smoke before it hits your lungs and filtering out some of the ash and other potentially harmful debris.
It’s Affordable
Smoking cannabis isn’t just easy; it’s one of the more affordable options out there. If you’re smoking joints, all you need is the flower, some rolling paper, and a flame. You can get a grinder and rolling tray to help make the process easier and cleaner.
If you smoke a pipe or a bong, you do have to spend a little more upfront. Pipes and bongs come in a variety of different materials, which do affect the cost. You can find decent equipment for less than $50. If you want higher quality, however, you’re likely to pay a bit more.
It Provides Quick Effects
Cannabis users smoke for many different reasons. Some want to unwind and relax after a long day at work. Some smoke to help alleviate pain. Others smoke to promote sleep.
No matter what the reason for smoking, the cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds that you inhale take effect quickly. Once in your lungs, the cannabinoids absorb into your bloodstream and then travel to your brain. Once there, they bind with the cannabinoid receptors to provide the desired effects.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While there are several benefits to smoking cannabis, there are also a few drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Smoking isn’t very discreet
- It produces strong odors that cling to your hair, skin, clothing, and furniture
- When you smoke, you breathe in carcinogens, burnt plant material, and other potentially harmful compounds that can harm your lungs
- If you inhale too quickly, you could breathe in very hot smoke (the water in a bong helps to cool the smoke, allowing you to avoid this issue)
Even with the introduction of several other methods of cannabis consumption, smoking continues to be one of the most popular methods. It’s affordable, easy to use, and provides fast-acting results. While there are a few drawbacks, for some users, the pros of smoking weed far outweigh the negatives.