Cannabis Inhalation for Beginners
What does it mean to “inhale” marijuana?
Cannabis smoke or vapor delivers THC, the chemical that gets you high, into your lungs where it passes directly into your bloodstream and then your brain. You will feel the effects from inhaling marijuana quickly, typically within a minute but possibly seconds. The effects peak around ten minutes after consumption, and usually wear off within one to three hours.
There are two main methods of inhaling cannabis: smoking and vaping. This article will focus on the latter since starting in 2025, Kentucky cannabis patients will not be able to smoke marijuana.
How to vape marijuana
Vaping is the process of inhaling vapor through an electronic device known as a vaporizer. Vaporizers heat the cannabis to a temperature that is high enough to release the cannabinoids and terpenes but not high enough to burn the plant material. You can vape either marijuana flower or cannabis concentrates.
Generally, vaping cannabis is considered a healthier alternative to smoking. A 2006 study suggests that vaping marijuana flower is less harmful to your respiratory system than smoking. Still, research on vaping cannabis is fairly limited.
There are two main types of vaporizers: desktop and portable. Desktop vaporizers are larger and are designed for home use. Portable vaporizers are smaller and can be carried around for on-the-go use.
The Volcano Vaporizer is one of the fanciest desktop vaporizers. Attached to the Volcano is a special balloon that will fill up with the vapour as it is released. When the balloon is full you can then remove it and either inhale the vapour directly or release it into the air, depending on how you wish to use it.
Simply inhale small puffs, pulling it into your lungs, and exhale. It is always a good idea to stick with smaller puffs if you are vaping weed for the first time. The vapor can tickle the back of your throat. So, remember to use slow, small, and easy puffs. Also, there’s no need to hold the smoke inside your lungs before exhaling.
What does the THC percentage in cannabis flower mean?
THC is the most prominent psychoactive cannabinoid naturally occuring in the cannabis plant. The THC percentage varies greatly amongst different strains of flower. Typically, products with a higher percentage of THC are going to produce a stronger, more potent effect. Cannabis flower usually contains about 15-25% THC. Anything above 25% can be expected to be very potent.
If you are unsure about what the perfect THC content is for you, these guidelines can be used as a rule of thumb.
Flower with a total THC content of 7-11.99% typically produces mild psychoactive effects. This is a below-average THC content but may be best for new patients, or those looking for a mild high.
Flower with a total THC content of 12-16.99% has a medium potency. This is a slightly below-average THC content but still produces moderate psychoactive effects.
Flower with a total THC content of 17-20% is considered high potency. This THC range is typical for most flower found at a dispensary and will have stronger effects.
The best way to determine what level of THC content you prefer and tolerate is to start small and gradually increase the percentage overtime. This allows you to become comfortable with the product and to gain a better understanding of your personal tolerance.
Additional Resources
3 Best Weed Strains for Beginners
What is Cannabis Vaping and How Does it Work?
Inhaled Marijuana and the Lungs by the American Thoracic Society