How to Reduce Coughing from Smoking Weed
If youâve ever wondered how to reduce coughing from smoking weed, youâre not alone. Many cannabis enthusiasts experience coughing fits, especially during their early smoking experiences or when trying new methods of consumption. While coughing can sometimes be an unavoidable part of inhaling smoke, certain methods and techniques can help minimize it. This article explores the causes of coughing, how various smoking methods differ in their impact, and effective ways to refine your inhalation technique for a smoother experience.
Why Does Smoking Weed Make You Cough?
Coughing occurs when your body reacts to irritants in the smoke, such as heat, particulates, and cannabinoids. While cannabis smoke may not contain the same harmful additives and carcinogens as tobacco, it can still irritate the sensitive tissues in your throat and lungs. For those with less experience or more sensitive airways, the coughing reflex can be even more pronounced.
Methods of Smoking: Which Are More Likely to Cause Coughing?
The way you consume cannabis can significantly affect your likelihood of coughing. Letâs break down some common methods:
1. Joints and Blunts
Joints and blunts are among the most traditional methods of smoking cannabis. However, they are also more likely to cause coughing due to the unfiltered smoke and the potential presence of irritants (such as tobacco in blunts).
2. Pipes and Bowls
Pipes provide a concentrated hit of smoke, which can be harsh on the throat if inhaled too quickly or deeply. Additionally, the lack of water or waterless filtration means no cooling effect, which could lead to more irritation.
3. Bongs and Bubblers
These devices use water to filter and cool the smoke, often resulting in a smoother hit. However, they can still cause coughing if the smoke is inhaled too aggressively or if the water isnât changed regularly, as dirty water can harbor irritants. Some bongs contain ice catchers allowing the smoke to pass through ice first.
4. Vaporizers
Vaping is generally less irritating than traditional smoking methods because it heats cannabis to a lower temperature, producing vapor instead of smoke. For some, this is the gentlest method and the least likely to provoke coughing. Vaping has some unique challenges with coughing due to the presence of chemicals in e-liquid including nicotine, flavorings, or other additives (such as propylene glycol).
5. Dabs (Concentrates)
Dabbing involves inhaling vaporized cannabis concentrates. While itâs potent, the high temperature required can cause intense coughing if not approached carefully.
Inhalation Techniques to Minimize Coughing
Your inhalation technique plays a major role in whether or not you cough. Here are some tips to help you master the art of smooth smoking:
1. Pre-Inhale Before Drawing Smoke
Take a small breath of fresh air before inhaling smoke. This reduces the heat and harshness of the hit by diluting it slightly with cooler air.
2. Take Smaller Hits
Instead of inhaling large amounts of smoke, take smaller, more manageable puffs. This reduces the likelihood of overwhelming your throat and lungs.
3. Breathe Naturally
Try to breathe in the smoke as you would regular air. Gulping or inhaling too forcefully can trigger coughing.
4. Slow and Steady Breaths
Avoid quick, sharp inhales. Instead, take a slow, steady breath to allow your lungs to adapt to the smoke gradually.
5. Exhale Completely
Ensure you fully exhale before your next hit. Residual smoke in your lungs can make the next inhalation feel harsher.
Additional Tips for Reducing Coughing
- Hydrate: Drinking water before, during, and after smoking keeps your throat lubricated, reducing irritation.
- Use Cooler Smoke: Opt for methods like bongs, filtered pipes, or vaporizers to lower the temperature of the smoke.
- Clean Your Equipment: Residue buildup in pipes, bongs, or vaporizers can harbor irritants, so regular cleaning is essential.