How vaping THC/CBD carts is becoming more popular among younger people than smoking weed

How vaping THC/CBD carts is becoming more popular among younger people than smoking weed

In recent years, cannabis consumption habits have seen a significant shift, particularly among adolescents and young adults, where vaping has become the predominant consumption method.

Broad changes in legislation over the past 20 years legalizing cannabis for medical and recreational use have changed the patterns around cannabis use and altered perceptions of perceived harms and benefits. 

Technological advancements within the expanding cannabis markets have seen the introduction of novel ways cannabis can be consumed. 

New methods for vaping cannabis in the form of oil vaping, dry herb vaping, and cannabis concentrate vaping have seen a high uptake in the younger generations. Survey data of past month cannabis vaping rates in US young adults (19 to 24) have doubled from 2017 to 2021.

It reflects a growing trend toward discreet, convenient, and seemingly healthier cannabis consumption alternatives. If you consume cannabis or are considering doing so, it would be helpful to know the pros and cons of these consumption methods to help navigate the evolving landscape of cannabis consumption and promote informed consumer decisions.

Pros of Vaping with THC/CBD Carts

Health Benefits

Vaping with THC/CBD cartridges removes the combustion associated with smoking. This means the toxins, carcinogens, and other cancer-causing agents released when smoking is not present with vaping. Evidence from a number of studies has shown that compared to smoking, vaping cannabis can reduce exposure to several toxins, CO2, and chronic respiratory symptoms. 

More Effective

Vaping cannabis is a more effective way of delivering the cannabinoids into the body. Vaping dry herb or cannabis extracts produces stronger effects than when smoking the same amount of THC. Studies confirm that vaping is indeed more effective than smoking, with higher THC absorption rates. 

Discreetness

Smoking cannabis leaves a distinct and lingering smell that's almost universally recognized. One of the advantages of vaping marijuana or cannabis extracts is there is no smoke. The vapor that's released as you exhale has a much less noticeable smell and dissipates faster. If you're trying to get a buzz under the radar, then vaping makes it more accessible. 

Ease of Use

Vape pens are easy to use; whether inhalation-activated or button-activated, they make cannabis consumption much easier and more accessible. You don't need to learn how to roll a joint,t and you'll never be stranded without a lighter or matches. 

Control over temperature and dosage

Many vape devices allow users to customize settings for temperature and even airflow so they can customize their vaping experience. Cartridges are labeled with CBD and THC content and come in multiple dosages, so it's easier to keep track of how much you consume and control dosages. 

Cons of Vaping with THC/CBD Carts

Cost

Vaping THC/CBD cartridges will end up costing more compared to smoking dry herbs or cannabis. 

On average, a 1/2 gram THC cartridge costs between $30 to $60, depending on quality and what state you are in. Dry herb typically goes for around $10 to $15 per gram. 

Moreover, the initial cost of the vape unit, usually a 510 battery, will also add to the expense. Batteries can be relatively cheap but will require replacing from time to time. 

When smoking, the only accessories you need are rolling papers, a pipe, and a lighter. 

Quality and Safety Concerns

Cannabis vape devices sold in marijuana dispensaries and at smoke shops should have the content and quantity of cannabinoids and other ingredients listed on the label. However, contamination and mislabeling remain a problem. Additionally, disposable vape pens are sometimes sold on the black market and may contain other unknown substances. 

As a result, several cases of counterfeit products and contaminated cartridges have sparked health scares. We strongly urge you to only use trusted devices from reputable brands.

Mental Health Effects

While cannabis is not addictive or harmful in the same way alcohol and nicotine are, it can still have detrimental effects on brain development in youth. Adolescent cannabis exposure can negatively impact brain development and result in adverse health outcomes, in addition. 

Conclusion

The increasing younger generation's shift to vaping with THC/CBD cartridges reflects the shift in attitudes toward cannabis and the rising demand for convenient, inconspicuous, and seemingly safer alternatives. 

While vaping has its advantages, such as the possibility of health benefits, inconspicuousness, and ease of use, it also poses formidable challenges. As vaping is relatively new, there have been no longitudinal studies on young adult health outcomes related to regular cannabis vaping during adolescence. Significant research is needed to understand the long-term health effects for youth and alcohol vapers; however, for the majority of adults, vaping seems more advantageous than smoking.

Developing and enforcing regulations ensuring the quality and safety of vaping products, promoting responsible usage, as well as facilitating meaningful debate of the potential benefits and drawbacks of this alternative to smoking cannabis can help ensure the risks are all mitigated while the opportunities are maximized. It's completely up to individual preference which method to select vapes or other consumption methods as long as it is an informed decision that prioritizes one's health, safety, and quality of life.