Terpenes are natural compounds found in various plants, responsible for their distinct aromas and flavors. They are present in botanical sources like fruits, herbs, flowers, essential oils, and cannabis, contributing to their sensory experience.
Terpenes Linked to Respiratory Irritation
Certain terpenes can contribute to throat irritation or coughing, particularly when inhaled in concentrated forms. Pinene, found in pine needles, can act as a respiratory irritant; while it has bronchodilatory properties, high concentrations may lead to throat irritation and coughing. Limonene, which provides a citrusy aroma, can also irritate mucous membranes, potentially causing coughing and other respiratory issues in sensitive users.
Myrcene, found in cannabis, typically has sedative effects, but high concentrations may irritate users’ throats. Beta-caryophyllene, with a spicy aroma, is another terpene that may cause throat irritation and coughing, especially in higher amounts. Individual sensitivity to these compounds varies, meaning not everyone will experience irritation from the same terpene profiles. Overexposure to concentrated terpenes can result in respiratory irritation.
Beyond Terpenes: Other Factors in Coughing
Beyond terpenes, other elements contribute to coughing when inhaling products. Combustion byproducts in smoke are significant respiratory irritants. Toxic components like carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and acrolein, along with fine particulate matter, generated during combustion, can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Even low oxygen concentrations resulting from combustion can contribute to respiratory distress.
Product quality and contaminants also play a role in respiratory irritation. Impurities like pesticides, heavy metals, mold, or residues from improper curing processes can introduce additional irritants. Faulty devices can also contribute to coughing. The method of inhalation itself can induce coughing, as factors like deep breaths or holding breath can irritate the airways.
Individual sensitivities and pre-existing respiratory conditions influence how one reacts to inhaled substances. People with allergies or respiratory conditions like asthma may experience heightened sensitivity, leading to coughing. A dry mouth or throat can also exacerbate coughing, making respiratory passages more susceptible to irritation. Chemicals such as propylene glycol, formaldehyde, and acrolein, found in some inhaled products, are known respiratory irritants.
Mitigating Coughing and When to Seek Advice
To reduce coughing from inhaled products, adjusting consumption methods is beneficial. Opting for vaporization over combustion may lessen irritation, as it avoids harmful byproducts of burning plant material. Using lower temperatures during vaporization can also help minimize the release of harsh compounds that irritate the throat and lungs. Exploring products with different terpene profiles or lower concentrations of known irritants can help identify what works best for individual tolerance.
Maintaining proper hydration is important, as drinking plenty of water can help keep the throat moist and reduce irritation. Ensuring products come from reputable sources and are free from contaminants can also reduce the risk of inhaling harmful substances. If coughing persists, or if new symptoms arise such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or fever, seeking medical advice is important, as these could indicate underlying conditions.