When it comes to the pros and cons of smoking versus vaping marijuana, both methods have their benefits and drawbacks. At first glance, it’s easy to assume that one is better for you than the other. After all, smoking anything can’t be good for you! But as with everything in life, there are two sides to every story. What might appear as a negative aspect of one method might be positive when viewed from another. So read on to find out which way is best for you—depending on your circumstances.
What is the Difference Between Smoking and Vaping Marijuana?
First and foremost, let’s discuss the difference between smoking and vaping. When you smoke marijuana, you’re burning the plant material and inhaling the smoke (which is made up of gases and carcinogenic toxins). Smoke is produced when something burns – and burning plant matter produces smoke. It’s the same process as burning wood in a fireplace or a bonfire. When you vape marijuana, you’re heating the plant material to extract the essential oils but not so much that they combust. As a result, the vapors contain none of the harmful toxins found in smoke. These two methods of consuming weed can be used to treat many of the same conditions, but they have different benefits and drawbacks. It all comes down to the health risks associated with each method.
Why Do People Smoke Marijuana?
- It’s a traditional method of consuming weed.
- When you smoke marijuana, it takes effect almost instantly.
- It can help treat certain conditions like anxiety (more on that in a moment).
Why Do People Vape Marijuana?
- It’s a modern method of consuming weed that’s considered to be healthier.
- When you vape marijuana, it takes effect gradually (but it’s quick enough to be effective).
- It can help treat certain conditions like anxiety (more on that in a moment).
- It’s a traditional method that’s been in use for decades.
- You can often get high more quickly by smoking marijuana.
- It can help reduce anxiety.
- And for treating insomnia.
- Some people might find it cheaper to smoke marijuana than to vape it.
- Smoking can be a good option for people who don’t want to attract attention or need to be discreet.
The Cons of Smoking Marijuana
- It’s not the healthiest way to consume marijuana.
- The smoke released can harm your lungs and cause respiratory issues like coughing or wheezing.
- The smoke can also be harmful to those around you.
- Smoking marijuana in certain places, such as in public, can be illegal.
- It can be difficult to control the dosage when smoking.
The Pros of Vaping Marijuana
- It’s a modern and less harmful method of consuming marijuana.
- The vapors don’t contain any of the harmful toxins associated with smoking.
- It doesn’t leave a strong smell that can linger in the air for hours.
- It’s legal to vape marijuana in most places.
- It can be more discreet than smoking.
- With the right vaporizer, you can control the dosage.
The Cons of Vaping Marijuana
- It can be challenging to get the same high from vaping marijuana as you would from smoking it.
- It can take longer to feel the effects of vaping marijuana then it would smoke it.
- You may have to spend more money on a vaporizer than on rolling papers.
- It can be harder to find marijuana that can be vaped at all.
- It may smell stronger than smoking.
- You may have to deal with the side effects of setting off security alarms (more on that in a moment).
Which is Better for You?
So now that you know the differences between smoking and vaping marijuana, you’re probably wondering which is better for you. It all depends on your circumstances.
- If you’re looking to get high quickly and don’t care about the longevity of the high, smoking might be the way to go.
- Smoking is also a good option if you’re dealing with anxiety and need something that can get you relaxed quickly.
- If you don’t care about getting high quickly or have issues controlling your dosage, vaping marijuana is the best option.
That said, it’s important to note that some studies have found vaping more effective than smoking at treating conditions like anxiety.