How to Stop Coughing from Weed: Tips, Techniques, and Insights

Coughing while smoking or vaping cannabis is a common experience for many users. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to cannabis, excessive coughing can dampen the experience and may even cause discomfort. This article aims to provide effective strategies to minimize coughing, making your cannabis consumption smoother and more enjoyable.

Understanding Why Weed Makes You Cough

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why cannabis can make you cough. When you inhale smoke or vapor, your throat and lungs are exposed to irritants. The heat, chemicals, and particulates can trigger your body’s natural response to expel these irritants, resulting in a cough. Here are some primary reasons:

1. Heat: The high temperature of smoke or vapor can irritate your throat and lungs.
2. Chemicals: Combustion releases chemicals that can irritate.
3. Particulates: Small particles from the plant matter can enter your respiratory system and trigger coughing.

Expert Tips to Reduce Coughing

1. Inhale Slowly and Take Smaller Puffs

Dr. Jordan Tishler, Harvard Medical School Instructor & Cannabis Consultant, advises, “Taking smaller, controlled puffs and inhaling slowly can significantly reduce the irritation that leads to coughing.” When you take big hits, more irritants enter your lungs at once, increasing the likelihood of a coughing fit. Start with small, gentle puffs and gradually increase as needed.

2. Use a Water Bong or Vaporizer

Water bongs filter the smoke through water, cooling it down and removing some of the particulates. This can make the smoke smoother and less irritating. Leafly, a popular cannabis information website, suggests, “Using a bong with water filtration or a vaporizer to potentially reduce irritation.” Vaporizers heat cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids without combustion, resulting in fewer irritants and a gentler experience.

3. Choose the Right Strain

Different cannabis strains have varying levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, which can affect how they impact your respiratory system. Some strains are known to be smoother on the throat. Dr. Tishler recommends trying different strains to find one that is less irritating for you.

4. Stay Hydrated

Keeping yourself well-hydrated can help soothe your throat. Drink water before, during, and after your smoking session. Hydration can also help mitigate the dryness that often accompanies smoking or vaping cannabis.

5. Use Proper Inhalation Techniques

Learning proper inhalation techniques can make a big difference. Instead of inhaling directly into your lungs, take the smoke or vapor into your mouth first and then slowly inhale it into your lungs. This can reduce the shock to your respiratory system and make the experience smoother.

Personal Experience: Finding What Works

I remember my first time smoking cannabis; the coughing was almost unbearable. I felt like I couldn’t take more than a couple of puffs without a fit of coughs. It wasn’t until a friend suggested using a vaporizer that things changed. The vapor was much smoother, and the coughing was significantly reduced. It was a game-changer for me, and now I always recommend vaporizers to newcomers.

Harm Reduction Strategies

Start Low and Go Slow

When trying new strains or consumption methods, start with a low dose and gradually increase it. This approach allows your body to adjust and helps you avoid overwhelming your system, which can lead to coughing.

Avoid Holding Smoke or Vapor

Contrary to popular belief, holding smoke or vapor in your lungs doesn’t significantly increase THC absorption but does increase irritation. Exhale smoothly and promptly to reduce coughing.

Keep Your Equipment Clean

Residue buildup in pipes, bongs, and vaporizers can contribute to irritation. Regularly clean your equipment to ensure a smoother and cleaner experience.

Insights from Research and Organizations

Project CBD

Project CBD, a non-profit organization, emphasizes, “Starting low with dosage and inhaling slowly to avoid irritation.” They also recommend looking for third-party lab reports to ensure the quality of your cannabis products.

American Lung Association

The American Lung Association discourages smoking weed due to potential lung health risks but offers resources on smoking cessation that might offer helpful tips for smoother inhalation. They emphasize the importance of understanding the health risks associated with smoking.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

NIDA, a US government agency, provides science-based information on drugs. Their website highlights the potential respiratory risks of smoking and the need for more research on safer consumption methods.

Harm Reduction Organizations

Harm reduction organizations offer support to people who use substances. They can provide resources on harm reduction practices, such as proper inhalation techniques, to potentially minimize irritation. Search online for harm reduction organizations near you.

Studies on Cannabis Inhalation

The Impact of Inhalation Technique on Respiratory Irritation from Cannabis Smoke

While specific studies on this topic are limited, research indicates that inhalation techniques can significantly affect the level of irritation experienced. Proper techniques can help mitigate coughing and make the experience more enjoyable.

A Comparison of the Respiratory Effects of Smoking vs. Vaping Cannabis

A study comparing the respiratory effects of smoking and vaping cannabis found that vaping may offer a smoother inhalation experience for some users. This is because vaping typically involves lower temperatures and fewer irritants compared to smoking.

The Role of Cannabinoids and Terpenes in Coughing During Cannabis Inhalation

Understanding how different cannabinoids and terpenes affect coughing could help identify strains or products less likely to trigger coughs. This area of research is still emerging, but it holds promise for improving the cannabis consumption experience.

Long-Term Respiratory Health Effects of Different Cannabis Consumption Methods

Long-term studies are crucial for understanding the health effects of different cannabis consumption methods, including potential coughing frequency. More research is needed to provide comprehensive guidelines for safer cannabis use.

Conclusion

Coughing while consuming cannabis is a common issue, but it doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of the experience. By understanding the causes of coughing and adopting the right strategies, you can enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable session. Remember to start low and go slow, choose the right equipment, and experiment with different strains to find what works best for you. Always stay informed and prioritize your health by following expert advice and evidence-based practices. Happy, smooth toking!