For patients just starting cannabis-based treatment, the idea of vaping their prescribed medical cannabis flower may seem intimidating, overwhelming, or even slightly weird. Fair enough - we know that vaping is a pretty new concept for most patients.
That said, vaping is the medically recommended method of taking your medical cannabis flower. It makes precise dosing really easy, avoids harmful smoke toxins, and delivers fast-acting relief - much like an inhaler does for respiratory conditions.
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How is vaping different from smoking?
The main difference between vaping and smoking is that instead of burning the medical cannabis flower and inhaling smoke, vaping involves heating the flower to the point where the therapeutic compounds are released as a vapour. This means that you're not exposed to harsh toxins from combustion, making it a far healthier option.
Why is medical cannabis only prescribed for vaping?
While medical cannabis has been a fully legal treatment option here in the UK since November 2018, it's only available to patients for vaping. This is because smoking anything can pose serious health risks, and there are concerns about the long-term effects of inhaling smoke.
How do vaporisers work?
Instead of burning the plant matter, dry herb vaporisers use convection or conduction heating methods to release active compounds in the plant material into a vapour. They heat the flower to a consistent, sometimes adjustable, temperature that's below the point of combustion but high enough to activate the therapeutic compounds.
This allows for a controlled and consistent dose with low risk of harmful toxins being released.
Top tips for vaping medical cannabis
What should you do before vaping?
Before you start vaping, it's essential to prepare your device and cannabis correctly to ensure a smooth experience.
- Grind your medical cannabis flower: Using a grinder will create a fine, even consistency that allows for better vaporisation.
- Measure the right amount: Follow your prescribed dosage and avoid 'overpacking' your vaporiser chamber (or flower sticks), as this can restrict airflow.
- Charge your vaporiser: Portable dry herb vaporisers require regular charging. A low battery can reduce the effectiveness of heating and vapour production.
- Preheat your device: Some vaporisers need a little time to reach the right temperature before inhalation. Always check the manufacturer's instructions.
How should you inhale for the best therapeutic effects?
- Take a slow, steady inhalation for about 3 to 5 seconds.
- Hold the vapour in your lungs for about 1 second before exhaling.
- Wait a minute or two between puffs to assess how you feel before taking another inhale.
- If your vape has temperature adjustment settings, start at the lower end (around 165C) and gradually increase as the vape 'session' progresses.
- Be mindful of your dosage and always follow the recommendations of your prescribing specialist.
What should you do after vaping?
- Check the cannabis: If it has turned brown and dry, and smells slightly like 'cooked popcorn', it’s been fully vaporised and should be discarded.
- Clean your vaporiser regularly: Residue buildup can affect vapour quality. Use isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs to clean the chamber and mouthpiece. If you are using an Omura vaporiser, like the one found in the Releaf Starter Kit, you will not need to clean the device - its design ensures no residue buildup.
- Store your prescribed cannabis and vaporiser properly: Make sure you store your medical cannabis in an airtight container away from heat and light and your vaporiser in a dry place to keep it in top condition.
The wrap-up
Vaping may feel unfamiliar for patients, especially those used to traditional methods of consuming cannabis or those with no experience of cannabis at all.
But, in all honesty, vaping medical cannabis flower is the most effective, safest, and most precise method of administering your prescribed dose. The first few times might be a bit of trial and error, but with these top tips in mind, you'll soon find your perfect vaping routine.
To learn a little more, check out the rest of our New Patient articles covering all the more frequently asked questions. We also have a full blog and education hub, both packed with comprehensive insights on UK medical cannabis, emerging research on this remarkable plant and it's therapeutic potential, and much more.
And then there's our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker - it takes less than 30 seconds to complete, and you'll find out if you potentially qualify for a medical cannabis prescription in the UK instantly.
Start your journey to better health today with Releaf.
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It is important to seek medical advice before starting any new treatments. The patient advisors at Releaf are available to provide expert advice and support. Alternatively, click here to book a consultation with one of our specialist doctors.
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Sam North, a seasoned writer with over five years' experience and expertise in medicinal cannabis, brings clarity to complex concepts, focusing on education and informed use.
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