Health benefits of using a Vaporizer – By heating your material at a lower temperature than combustion, the devices produce a vapor mist that contains the active ingredients, but without the harmful by-products of smoke. Vaporizing is said to remove approximately 95% of the smoke that is inhaled.
Vaporizing eliminates harmful toxins.
A study published in 2007 shows that vaporizing could help prevent exposure to toxins in smoke. Specifically, researchers found that vaporizers delivered the same amount of THC into the bloodstream, but less carbon monoxide compared to smoking.
The study concluded that vaporizing is likely a healthier choice, since it “produces the same biological effect as smoking cannabis, but without the harmful toxins.”
‘Vaporization as a smokeless cannabis delivery system: a pilot study.’ (Abrams et al., 2007)
Vaporizing leads to fewer problems.
Another 2007 study on vaporizing was the first to link using a vaporizer to a decrease in respiratory problems. The study, which involved both cigarette and marijuana users, found those who relied on a vaporizer reported less lung symptoms – such as “cough, phlegm, and tightness in the chest” – than those who didn’t.
Interestingly, the effect was more obvious among heavy cannabis users. The researchers concluded: “Regular users of joints, blunts, pipes, and water pipes might decrease respiratory symptoms by switching to a vaporizer.”
‘Decreased respiratory symptoms in cannabis users who vaporize.’ (Earleywine and Barnwell, 2007)
I can tell you from personal experience that this is true.
Switching to a vaporizer can help.
In 2010, researchers published a follow-up study that took the 2007 findings a step further. The study recruited 20 cannabis smokers with existing lung symptoms and gave them vaporizers to use for a month.
Following a month of daily use, the researchers evaluated the 20 subjects and found “meaningful improvements in respiratory function.” What’s more, according to their findings, switching to a vaporizer led to benefits in lung function that were comparable to quitting smoking all together.
‘Pulmonary function in cannabis users: Support for a clinical trial of the vaporizer.’ (Van Dam and Earleywine, 2010)
Fewer side effects using a Vaporizer
In a large study of medical marijuana users, vaporizers ranked highest in side effect satisfaction, meaning that patients felt most functional after vaporizing.
While the study did not investigate specific side effects, some said vaporizers produced a more clear-headed “high” due to the lack of smoke inhaled by the users. Vapor can be inhaled in short and shallow puffs, whereas other smoking devices may require taking deeper and larger breaths, which can be uncomfortable for novice users.
Interestingly, patients also ranked vaporizing as the most efficient method of intake. On average, patients said smaller doses of cannabis were required while vaporizing compared to other common methods, including edibles, tea and joints. Also the fact that you can keep your vaporized material called AVB (already vaped bud) and cook with it. If used to smoking this is a new feature as combustion leaves nothing to continue to use.
Of course, how one reacts differs widely from person to person, so vaporizers may not be ideal for everyone. Ultimately, consulting with a healthcare professional and careful experimentation is the best way to figure out what method of intake is best for you.
