Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound harvested from the Cannabis sativa plant, typically from hemp varieties that contain very low levels of the intoxicating compound THC. CBD is non-impairing, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with traditional cannabis use. While the compound is widely available in many forms, smoking CBD flower has emerged as a popular consumption method, allowing users to engage with the whole plant material without a psychoactive experience.
The Appeal of Inhalation
Inhaling CBD provides an extremely fast-acting delivery method, which is the primary reason for its popularity. When smoke or vapor is drawn into the lungs, the CBD molecules are absorbed almost immediately into the bloodstream via the vast network of capillaries in the pulmonary system. This rapid absorption bypasses the digestive system and the first-pass metabolism in the liver. This process results in significantly higher bioavailability compared to other methods, such as swallowing an edible. The time it takes to reach maximum concentration in the blood is dramatically reduced, often taking only a few minutes, making inhalation appealing for users seeking immediate relief.
Different Ways to Consume CBD Flower
The core product for smoking CBD is the dried, cured flower of hemp strains specifically cultivated to be rich in CBD and low in THC. This plant material is visually and aromatically similar to high-THC cannabis flower. The most common form for consumption is the pre-rolled joint, often referred to as a CBD pre-roll or hemp cigarette, which offers convenience and portability. Consumers also smoke the loose CBD flower using traditional smoking accessories. While the physical act of smoking CBD flower closely resembles the use of traditional cannabis, the maximum legal THC content is restricted to 0.3% by dry weight. This similarity in appearance can sometimes lead to public confusion or legal scrutiny.
Respiratory Considerations of Smoking
The act of smoking any plant material involves combustion, which creates health considerations. Burning hemp flower produces smoke that contains various byproducts, including tar and carbon monoxide. These compounds are known irritants that can deposit in the lungs. Regular inhalation of smoke is associated with respiratory symptoms like chronic cough, increased phlegm production, and wheezing. While the long-term effects of smoking CBD specifically are still under scientific investigation, the fundamental risks associated with inhaling smoke from combustion remain a concern for lung health.
How Inhalation Compares to Other Methods
The speed and high bioavailability of smoking CBD offer a distinct contrast to non-inhalation consumption methods. Oral products like capsules and edibles must first pass through the digestive tract, resulting in a significantly delayed onset of effect, typically ranging from 30 minutes to two hours. Sublingual oils and tinctures offer a middle ground, with a faster onset than edibles, often within 15 to 30 minutes. However, the effects from smoking are generally shorter-lived, lasting an average of two to four hours. In contrast, the effects from edibles and capsules are more sustained, sometimes lasting up to eight hours, making them better suited for users seeking prolonged relief.