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Does Vaping Dehydrate You? Top Facts & Prevention Tips!
Cannabis vaping is becoming increasingly popular as legalization spreads across the US. Weed vaporizers offer consumers a convenient and discrete way of enjoying the cannabis experience. With the increase in use, more and more consumers are asking: does vaping dehydrate you? They also want to know how to keep dehydration at bay.
That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to answer some of the most frequently asked questions on vaping and dehydration. Like, does vaping dehydrate you, and how does vaping dehydrate you, if that’s the case. Keep reading to learn these answers, how to prevent dehydration with your Firefly vaporizer, and more.
Vaping-related Dehydration: Symptoms You Should to Know
First and foremost, how can you tell if you’re dehydrated from vaping? It will help to know what the most common symptoms of vaping dehydration are, such as:
Dry eyes, mouth or throat
An increase in thirst
Sleepiness or fatigue
Increased headaches
Feeling dizzy
Urine that’s darker than usual or less frequent
It’s important to know that these symptoms can be indicators of other health issues and not just dehydration from vaping. So, ideally get in touch with your doctor if they continue to occur over long periods of time.
Additional Side-Effects of Vaping Too Much
Once you learn how to vape, it’s likely you’ll start noticing other differences or changes in your health. Even though cannabis is proving to be beneficial for a wide range of medical conditions, excess inhalation of the material can cause negative side-effects in some cases, such as:
Shortness of breath - When you vape, you’re inhaling the vapor into your lungs. If you increase your use too much, you may begin to experience shortness of breath from the new habit.
Increased coughing - New vape consumers tend to cough more frequently than seasoned consumers since their lungs might not be used to the habit. Usually, increased coughing subsides after a couple of weeks or a few months.
Throat irritation - Similar to experiencing coughing and shortness of breath, your mouth and throat might take a while to adjust to inhaling too much vapor. Again, this side-effect subsides within a few weeks.
To help avoid these downsides of vaping, you can adjust the frequency of use or the temperature of your weed vaporizer. Lower temperatures will produce smoother smoke, which will prevent irritation and coughing.
Dehydration: Prevention Tips You Should Know
Weed or cannabis alone doesn’t cause dehydration. Although the common side-effect of cotton mouth might make you seem extra thirsty.
In reality, dehydration is defined as your body losing more fluid than it’s taking in. When cannabis causes a dry mouth, you can experience excess thirst. However, thirst alone isn’t an indicator of dehydration.
Regardless, here are some prevention tips to incorporate into your daily routine to keep you feeling your best and avoid getting dehydrated or cotton mouth from vaping.
Control or decrease your caffeine intake - While there’s no definitive study showing that caffeine causes fluid loss, you should still control or decrease how much you consume when vaping to avoid the possibility of dehydration.
Increase the quantity of fruits and vegetables you eat - Fruits and vegetables are high in water content, helping you avoid becoming dehydrated. For instance, watermelon is made up of 90% water while iceberg lettuce is made up of 96% water.
Drink more water than usual - This should go without saying, but keep up with regular water intake and increase how much you drink while vaping.
Control how much you vape, and avoid vaping if sick - Vaping when you’re sick can only increase your chances of becoming dehydrated or flaring up the negative side-effects of vaping.
Invest in a quality vaporizer - As we mentioned earlier, investing in a high-quality, trusted vaporizer like Firefly with the temperature control option can produce a smoother and safer smoking experience.
FAQs on Vaping and Dehydration
If you have questions such as how much do vapes cost and does vaping dehydrate you, it’s safe to assume you have a lot more questions on the subject. Let’s answer some common FAQs on vaping and dehydration.
Is dehydration dangerous?
Dehydration is only deemed dangerous to your health when taken to the extreme. Some symptoms of excess dehydration include fainting, dizziness, infrequent urine, fatigue, and extremely dry skin.
Does vaping cause dehydration?
No, vaping cannabis does not directly cause dehydration. It does cause a dry mouth, which may be confused with being dehydrated due to increased thirst.
How much water should I drink when vaping?
In general, you should drink 6-8 glasses of water every day. So, drink at least this much when vaping, if not more.
Does Vaping Directly Dehydrate You? The Final Answer is a Big ‘No’
The bottom line is that vaping responsibly does not directly cause dehydration. Now that you know the answer to, does vaping dehydrate you, why does vaping dehydrate you, and how does vaping dehydrate you, you can adjust how you vape cannabis. Use these tips to invest in a quality vaporizer, like Firefly, and stay hydrated with proper intake of water and fruits.
Shop our selection now to improve the way you vape flower or concentrates. Or, check out the Firefly blog for more essential guides and tips!
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New to Vaping? Here’s the Ultimate Guide on How to Vape for the First Time
If you're new to vaping, welcome! It’s only natural that as a beginner you want answers to a lot of basic questions, such as:
What is vaping?
Is it simple or complicated?
What's the best device for a beginner like me?
Can I vape anywhere?
How long should a hit last?
What flavors will suit me?
Don't worry, we've got all the answers. This article will clear the smoke! From what vaping is to how vapes work, you’ll know everything about vaping and much more in this ultimate how-to-vape guide for beginners.
What is Vaping?
First of all, you need to know what vaping means. Let’s clear the smoke!
Vaping is a practice in which vapor is breathed in and then breathed out. That vapor that comes from a personal vaporizer, often called PV. The term comes from the word “vaporize,” which means to change from a liquid or solid state to a gas.
Unlike smoking, vaping is a new practice. But although people have been vaping for just about a decade or so, it has quickly become very popular. Vaping involves inhaling vaporized e-liquid through a device called a vape pen or any other device.
The first vaping devices were introduced in 2003, and they used batteries and atomizers to create vapor from liquid nicotine or other substances. Today, there are many different types of vapes on the market that can be used with different types of e-liquids. Each variety gives you a different vaping experience and allows you to customize your vaping experience based on what you like best.
Top Tip:
Did you know that you can even vape with dry herb if you aren't into vaping liquid? These special devices ensure you use dry herb and no liquid, but have all the benefits of a regular vape.
How to Choose Your First Vape Device
The next important step for you is to know what type of device will suit you best. While there are many different types of devices on the market, we know how overwhelming it can be when choosing one for your first vape. Here are two kinds of vapes that are most popular among cannabis fans:
Convection vaporizer
Conduction vaporizer
While it is true that vape pens and devices can be pretty pricey, here’s a simple solution: read our guidelines, and you're well on your way to finding the best-quality vape device, so you know you won't be wasting your hard-earned cash.
First off, not all devices or vape pens are created equal—and different devices are suited for different types of vapers.
Look for an easy-to-use interface: a simple interface is always a good idea, whether you’re new to vaping or have been doing it for years. If you don’t have to overthink it every time you take a hit, you can concentrate on enjoying the flavor.
Make sure that the flavor isn’t too strong. As a beginner, you want to be able to enjoy the subtlety of different flavors without feeling overwhelmed by them. It can also be quite challenging to inhale if the flavor is overpowering, so make sure whatever brand you choose has a range of flavors with light and subtle tastes.
A good beginner device will also give a light hit that isn’t too strong or uncomfortable for the user. It should be easy to inhale without causing a lot of coughing or phlegm. Nowadays, most e-cigarettes are designed to be low wattage and produce a smooth experience.
How to Choose a Vape that Suits You
To start vaping, you’ll need to purchase some e-liquid. Many online retailers make it easy for you to choose the best e-liquid for your needs. Also, you have to work out what cannabis potency you would need compared to the usual intake. Most people new to vaping choose a lighter potency. These are not harsh and allow your body to get used to vaping instead of taking a hit from a bong or a joint, or even the slower onset of an edible.
Think about what kind of cannabis you want: Indica, sativa, or hybrid?
What is the potency you need? Now, not all e-liquids are created equal—there are a dizzying number of flavors and strengths out there to choose from. We recommend opting for a lighter potency since you're just starting out. It's not as harsh as other methods of cannabis intake (like smoking from a bong or joint), and it won't hit you as hard as an edible.
How Long Should Each Hit Last?
One of the top questions asked when people wonder how to vape for the first time is: how long should each inhalation last? When vaping, your hit should follow the golden rule. Don’t know the golden rule? Don’t worry. It’s easy enough to remember: simply start with a slow inhalation, and keep it steady. The perfect hit lasts about 4 to 6 seconds, but this can vary depending on the kind of device you're using and the wattage of your vape. The higher the wattage, the less time you need to inhale.
Top Tips for Beginner Vapers
Vaping can be a fun, easy experience if you follow the dos and don'ts for your first vaping experience:
Dos and Don'ts: Keep Your Vape Clean
Keeping your tank clean and free of residue is crucial because a dirty tank can alter the vapor and flavor produced. Always give your tank a quick clean before refilling. This will prevent buildup from ruining your vape experience (as well as ensure your vaping safety).
Dos and Don'ts: Switch Up the Flavors
One of the most common problems that vapers experience is an inability to taste their vape. This is caused by what's commonly referred to as 'vaper's tongue'. What it basically means is that your tastebuds need a refreshing change.
Dos and Don’ts: Keep Your Mouth Clean!
You risk developing mouth, tongue, and gum problems when you vape without properly brushing your teeth. Fact is, merely brushing your teeth is alright, but your mouth won't be thoroughly cleaned without brushing your tongue as well. In addition to a toothbrush, use mouthwash and floss to ensure that you regularly remove all particles and deposits in your mouth. This is especially true if you use a sweetened flavor in your vape.
Dos and Don’ts: Ask for Permission to Vape in Public
Before you vape at any location, it’s always wise to seek permission from the owner of the place. This practice should be followed even if you are at a friend's house. Before you vape in a friend's home, make sure you ask if it is okay. The vapor may bother people around you if they don't know what it is. While vapor does not smell or leave any residue, it is polite to ask those around you if they are comfortable with you doing so.
Dos and Don’ts: Respect The Rules
Often we see that designated areas are marked out for smokers. But don't just assume that it is okay to vape there. Check if rules are in place for vaping. In fact, as a beginner who is yet to figure out the dos and don’ts of vaping, it's a smart idea to get a smaller vape device that doesn’t stand out too prominently. These types of vapes let off smaller puffs of vapor, and you'll still be able to enjoy it without bothering anyone around you.
Dos and Don'ts: Never Leave Your Vape to Charge Throughout the Night
It is a misconception among many beginners that charging your devices overnight is harmless. This can damage your device and wear out the battery.
Dos and Don'ts: If You’re Thirsty, Don’t Ignore It
When you start vaping, you’ll notice that your mouth gets dry. Drinking water helps, but it's hard to remember to drink when you're busy. That's why it helps to keep a water bottle handy while you're vaping. Once you get used to vaping, you won't forget to stay hydrated and will be able to keep vaping as long as you want. Some vapes contain ingredients that tend to absorb water molecules faster. So you may notice you get a dry mouth more often than you used to! So, just keep a water bottle close at hand and stay hydrated.
Vaping for Beginners: More Top Tips
Vaping can sometimes be tricky, especially for inexperienced users wondering how to vape for the first time. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Don’t compromise on quality
There’s a saying that rings true with vaping: ‘a poor man pays twice’. Well, this isn’t a dig at people with no money. It simply means if you pay for the lowest quality, you will end up spending more money by buying an extra vape or liquid because it turns out the cheapest one you got hold of has a foul taste.
It’s true that inexpensive vape liquids are often produced by cutting corners, and there are often harmful substances in the liquid. Do your research and find a vape juice that fits your budget and your standards.
2. Know what flavors you like
Sure, you will have to experiment a bit before finding your favorite flavors. But think about the different types of flavors. Do you like very sweet things? Do you prefer the simple pleasure of CBD or THC?
It’s up to you. Don’t be afraid to experiment by mixing flavors!
The Bottom Line on Vaping for the First Time
While these vaping tips are meant for beginners, this guide will come in handy for seasoned vapors as well. Remember to be polite when you’re out and about because not everyone appreciates a thick cloud of vapor, and choose your vape liquids and devices with care.
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Vaping Indoors: How Vaping Affects Indoor Air Quality
One of the biggest advantages of vaping is that you can enjoy it anywhere. Whether you're out on a walk or spending time with friends and family, there's no need to relegate yourself to your home or car just because you're vaping.
However, many people are concerned that vaping indoors is a bad idea, and actually end up restricting their use simply because they tend to be social in nature. But how does it affect indoor air quality? And is vaping allowed indoors? Here’s everything you need to know.
Is Vaping Allowed Indoors?
Most countries leave it open for families and establishments to decide the answer to the question: Is vaping allowed indoors? As such, it is a good idea to check before you take a puff- it’s just the right thing to do.
Want to Vape Indoors? Here’s What Science Says
In an article (with a rather lengthy title which we won’t force you to endure) published by The Public Library of Science, study results now show that vaping indoors causes little to no pollution in the home.
The study, which analyzed hundreds of homes and factored in a variety of variables, concluded that contrary to popular opinion, vaping indoors does not cause any pollution or affect indoor air quality.
Should we rest with just one study? Certainly not!
There are several studies done that all indicate the same result: indoor vaping is not bad for the indoor environment, and there is no evidence to say that it is. If you still have a couple niggling concerns, you could find out more about how to vape safely with the best equipment, and decide which equipment (conduction or convection vaporizer, that is the question!) works for you.
And if you want a quantifiable number, exposure to nicotine via a vape is 169 x lower than regular old cigarettes. The study goes on to say that there is no evidence to support the notion that people are exposed to ‘secondhand smoke’ from vapes- whether indoors or outdoors.
What Does a Vape Do to the Air Inside Your Home?
Vapes do not emit secondhand smoke like regular cigarettes or combustibles do, and can therefore typically be used in bars, restaurants, and other indoor public places. While vapes containing nicotine still release nicotine, it is at a far lower level than a typical cigarette (and some vapes have no nicotine).
Other substances found in the vapor from vapes include:
Benzene
formaldehyde
Isoprene
N-Nitrosonornicotine
Toluene
propylene glycol
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved propylene glycol in some products but it should be noted it has not approved the vaporized form of propylene glycol.
While these compounds are released via the vapor and can build up on surfaces, they cannot enter other people's bodies or harm them (according to the previously mentioned study).
How Long Does it Take for Vapor Particles to Disappear from the Air?
Even though the vapor particles from e-cigarettes evaporate within seconds, how long do they hang around in the air?
It might be uncomfortable to inhale vapor particles in an enclosed space, but there is 'probably no danger' to your health, according to a study published in 2018 by public health officials, which compared the effects of vaping and cigarette smoking in indoor air.
The study reported that particles released from the vapor are gone (poof, evaporated into the air) within literal seconds. What’s more, the particles are gone long before a person would have had time to inhale and exhale.
In contrast, for cigarettes, the particle concentration in the room might not return to background levels for about 45 minutes because of the time it takes for nicotine and other chemicals to break down.
Will Vaping Inside Stain Walls?
If you're a fan of vaping, you may have found yourself wondering whether your habit could damage your home the way smoking can. Luckily, staining is the only major effect that vaping inside can have on walls and shelves.
Vaping indoors does not stain walls as dramatically as smoking, but the residue can still build up over time. You could ensure windows are kept open or simply vape close to ventilation if you are concerned with stains. If you want to stay on your couch while enjoying your vape, don't worry! The residue will only begin to show after a prolonged period of time and is easily cleaned off using a wet cloth.
Does vaping inside leave a lingering smell?
Vaping is much less noticeable than the smell of traditional cigarettes! However, the slight smell can be reduced if you ensure your home has good ventilation.
The vapor that is produced by an e-cigarette is almost completely composed of water. This means that it will not stick to surfaces or permeate the air in the same way that cigarette smoke does. While a vape can smell slightly sweet, you should be able to eliminate any unwanted odors with a little bit of effort.
Air moves in one direction: from high pressure to low pressure. In this case, it makes sense that the air (and potential particles) will travel straight out of your house, into the atmosphere. This means that if you have good ventilation throughout your home, any lingering smells should be quickly removed by fresh outdoor air.
Vaping indoors doesn't produce any smoke, so there is no tell-tale layer of tobacco smoke that clings to fabrics and furniture. However, some people are more sensitive than others to the odor produced by e-cigarettes and some flavors can be stronger than others. This means that if you vape inside your house, you may notice a slight odor for a couple of hours afterward but could be reduced or eliminated by ensuring good ventilation throughout your home.
The Bottom Line: Vaping Inside and the Possible Effects
Vaping indoors, are you allowed to vape indoors? Of course, you can decide for yourself whether you want to vape inside your home. Although some people enjoy vaping inside, especially for people who don’t mind a little extra cleaning now and then, to ensure your walls aren’t gathering residue.
In the end, it's up to you whether you want to vape inside or outside. The experts recommend that you vape outside, but sometimes the weather (or your lifestyle) precludes this.
There are many media outlets that bash vaping in general, nevermind doing it indoors, but there the studies actually show there is no evidence to back up these claims. The opposite seems to be true, the studies show the vape particles are minuscule and will not cause harm to others.
So, we say: first check the establishment (if you are not at home) and ask: is vaping allowed indoors? Before you just assume, as some establishments don't allow it. There are many that do, however, but be courteous- and don't exhale straight into other people's faces or food. While the vapor disappears in seconds, that is not the point- just be mindful of those around you.
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The Best Portable Dry Herb Vaporizer 2023
Weed vaporizers today are much more portable and efficient than when they first emerged on the market, thanks to improved technology and understanding of how to best vaporize the cannabis plan. This is true for the Firefly 2 upgrade that provides an outstanding vaping experience with cannabis. Learn about this portable and convection marijuana vaporizer for sale and all of its features, below.
Portable Vaporizers
With an assortment of portable vaporizers for weed available for purchase, it might be hard to choose which is the best one for you. This article will outline why we believe the Firefly 2+ is the best choice when it comes to portable weed vaporizers.
What is the Firefly Vaporizer?
The Firefly is, as mentioned, a portable cannabis vaporizer. The brand was created in 2012 by a former Apple Designer who had a profound appreciation for cannabis and wanted to leverage technology to bring out the best in the cannabis plant and saw an opening in the market to improve upon what existed. Firefly spares no expense when it comes to materials used and technology platforms leveraged to create the optimal vaping experience.
Best Small Marijuana Vaporizer
From the start, they were dedicated to developing the best marijuana vaporizer they could make. The team spent two years developing the technology platform, but ultimately decided it wasn’t perfect and not ready for market introduction. They pivoted and decided to go a different route. Instead of using butane as a heating source, they would use an electric heating coil.
The team tried many different metals in order to find the perfect one. Soon after testing, they both happened to develop a nickel allergy. This also happened to be the standard type of coil in weed vapes at the time. This led them to ceramic as the heating element in the device, which is now the industry standard in vaporizers due to its superior heat retention abilities.
When the R&D process was done, the final result was a first of its kind high-tech product known as the Firefly dry herb vaporizer. Since its inception Firefly has released three additional iterations of the vaporizer device, as well as, a prefilled oil vaporizer known as the Firefly mini.
Why buy the Firefly?
The Firefly has a number of thoughtful qualities, but here are just a few:
Speed
The Firefly 2+ has one of the fastest heat-up times of any vaporizer on the market, heating the material inside in just 3-seconds. When you’re ready to charge, you only need 45 minutes before the device is fully charged and ready for its next use.
Temperature
The Firefly takes the same amount of time to heat up as it does to cool down. This enables more control with each puff. The Firefly also uses modern dynamic heating technology to heat up each draw to your preferred maximum temperature, helping you to maximize what you get from each draw.
Design
The design of the Firefly is elegant and understated. Available color options include jet black, gold, blue, black, oak, and zebra wood. Other key features of the design include:
Magnetic Lid
Borosilicate Glass Bowl
Laser-drilled Microjets
Capacitive Touch Sensors
Glass Vapor Path
Removable Mouthpiece
Magnesium Alloy Chassis
Waste-Free
The Firefly 2+ is designed specifically to heat up as you inhale, so no material is ever wasted.
Long-Lasting
Inhalation lasts 10 seconds, this enables the vapor to stay in your body for longer periods of time, entering the surface of the lungs and going to the bloodstream thereafter. It also mitigates large plumes of vapor that are wasteful, keeping the cannabis in your body and more discreet.
Technology Controlled
The Firefly also allows the user to conveniently control the temperature from their desktop or via an Android app. You can choose a wide range of temperatures between 200° and 500° Fahrenheit. This is the largest available temperature control of any portable vaporizer.
Taste
The 2+ has exactly 33% more airflow than the previous model. Since the Firefly is able to use a range of temperatures, it can activate all of the compounds in your cannabis appropriately, helping to reveal nuanced flavor profiles and effects. The taste delivered via the Firefly device is unlike any other vaporizer for weed.
Warranty
The Firefly has a two-year satisfaction guarantee, with a warranty repair center available for troubleshooting and repairs.
All these and more it is a strong contender for the best weed vape pen for sale.
What makes the Firefly 2+ different from other portable vaporizers on the market?
As discussed in this article, the Firefly uses technology to its advantage to effectively and expertly vaporize all compounds within cannabis flower or extract. Other vaporizers can only activate one thing at once, sacrificing flavor and potency.
The Firefly features a dynamic heating technology, so you can smoke at your own pace rather than needing to vaporize the entire bowl in one session. The device only takes a few seconds to heat up and cool down with each draw, allowing for efficient vaping sessions in respect to both time and wasted cannabis. It’s small and sleek, so you can easily pack it with you and use it on the go or at home.
When you purchase the Firefly 2+ cannabis vaporizer, it comes with the vaporizer itself, the charger, a rechargeable battery, a concentrate pad, a charging dock, three alcohol wipes, and the charging cable.
Final Thoughts
The Firefly is great for those who prioritize vapor quality over all else. The device's construction and proprietary heating technology make it a top-of-the-line taste and aroma, making it the best vaporizer for any vaping experience.
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How To Vape Without Coughing?
If you've been dry herb vaping long, you know that not all devices are created equal. You probably started with a budget device, which means you struggled with flavor quality, frequent clogs, poor battery life, and limited heating options. Fortunately, dry herb vaping has taken off, and there are several high-end, top-notch devices available for fantastic dry herb vaping.
Two of the most popular devices that have popped up are the Firefly 2+ and the Davinci IQ. While both devices handle dry herb vaping well, they offer very different vaping experiences. Below, we'll talk about where each of these devices excel, and how a discerning shopper can choose between the Firefly vs. Davinci IQ to get the device that is the best fit for their vaping needs.
Firefly 2+ vs Davinci IQ
Both the Firefly 2+ and the Davinci IQ do their jobs extremely well. They have fantastic builds, sleek, modern designs, and produce excellent vapor. However, there are significant differences between these devices, specifically regarding how these devices heat dry herbs to create vapor.
Figure 1 Hand holding Firefly 2+ loaded with dry herbs.
The Firefly 2+ uses convection heating. This means that the heated air is released (similar to an oven), which creates vapor from the dry herbs. The Davinci IQ uses conduction heating, which means the dry herb will need to make contact with a hot surface in order to produce vapor. These heating differences will be important as we take an in-depth look at these devices, so keep them in mind.
Manufacturing Quality
The Firefly 2+ has excellent manufacturing quality. It features a stainless-steel body, a borosilicate glass vapor path to a food-grade plastic mouthpiece, and a removable battery. The heating chamber has a .15-gram capacity, which is sufficient for most vapers to have a full vaping session. Very few would have an issue with the overall build quality of the Firefly 2+.
The Davinci IQ also offers an excellent build. It features an all-ceramic vapor path, a removable 18650 battery, and a .3 gram heating chamber. With a generous heating chamber and solid battery power, the Davinci IQ will disappoint few vapers with its build.
Vaporizer Ease of Use
The Firefly 2+ is really easy-to-use. You connect the device to a companion app or desktop app for precision heating options and then press sensors on each side of the vape to make it fire. It will take a few sessions to get used to vaping on the Firefly 2+ (taking a draw requires more pull than what some vapers might be used to) but there aren't any significant roadblocks.
The Davinci IQ is also easy-to-use. However, instead of a learning curve of how to take appropriate pulls, the Davinci IQ will take a few sessions to get used to the variety of onboard heating options (though Davinci also has a companion app).
Just like with the Firefly, this device will only take a few sessions for vapers to feel comfortable adjusting heating options and puffing vapor.
Device Portability
Dry herb vapes are notoriously travel-unfriendly. Their heating chambers make it difficult to create a slim design profile, and the fact that you need to heat up dry herbs to make vapor (and potentially reload a heating chamber), is not always convenient when you may only have a few moments to take a quick puff.
The Firefly 2+ resolves many of these travel issues. It's a comfortable size, so bulkiness won't cause you any problems. It provides on-demand vapor, which means you can go from a cold device to taking a quick puff in less than 10 seconds. Since the batteries can be swapped, you can plan on having several vape sessions throughout the day without needing to recharge.
The Davinci IQ is also extremely travel-friendly. It has a super-slim profile, which means it will pack more conveniently than the Firefly 2+. While it doesn't support on-demand heating, its inconspicuous design is helpful in not drawing attention to yourself when you want to take a hit.
Even though dry herb vapes don't tend to be travel friendly, both the Firefly 2+ and the Davinci IQ break that stereotype.
Design
The overall design of these devices is where you'll start to see some major differences. The Firefly 2+ uses a removable faceplate to load the heating chamber. Then, sensors on each side of the device are touched in order to get vapor production going. You can cycle through some preset heating options, though the companion app offers far more options.
Figure 2 Davinci IQ on ground with temperature setting displayed.
The Davinci IQ will actually load at the bottom of the device. This is where the heating plate is, and vapor will travel upwards from here into the mouthpiece. You'll have more access to heating options on the physical device, though the Davinci also uses a companion app.
Battery Life
Both devices offer great battery life, but you'll find that each has its own unique perks and drawbacks in this area. The Davinci IQ will last a bit longer than the Firefly 2+ (the Firefly uses smaller batteries). The Davinci will last to upwards of seven vaping sessions before needing to recharge.
The Davinci IQ also uses 18650 batteries. This size of battery is extremely common among box mod vaporizers, so you may have a handful already. This can make it easy to swap batteries out for all-day vaping without needing to buy a bunch of spares. Finally, you can expect batteries for the Davinci to take around two hours to fully charge.
Figure 3 Example of an 18650-lithium battery
The Firefly 2+ will last around six sessions and also uses proprietary batteries, so while they are exchangeable (and each device comes with two), you'll have to buy more if you plan on extensive all-day vaping.
However, the Firefly 2+ has an enormous advantage in charge time. It will only take a battery 45 minutes to reach a full charge, which is less than half the time for the Davinci. You'll want to decide if a fast recharge time is more important or if a slightly longer vaping time is what you are looking for.
Heat-up Time
The Firefly has the clear advantage with heat-up time. It can produce vapor in as little as three seconds, though normal times range between three and ten seconds. Even on the high-end, the Firefly 2+ has an incredible heat-up time that most devices on the market can't match.
The Davinci IQ has a heat-up time of around a minute. While this pales in comparison to the Firefly, it's actually not that bad when you compare it to other devices in the market. However, if speed is an important factor for you, then the Firefly will unquestionably offer the best experience.
Temperature Controls
Both devices benefit from a companion app that helps to fine-tune heat control. The Davinci IQ offers degree-precision heating, so it'll be easy to find the sweet spot for your dry herbs. The Davinci also offers "smart paths," which are based around the boiling points of different cannabinoids, which can help fine-tune the vaping experience for those new to cannabis.
The Firefly 2+ also offers degree-precision heating. It also offers special heating called "dynamic convection." When you set your heating temperature and take a draw, the Firefly 2+ will actually work its way up to your setting while you draw. The idea is to inhale each cannabinoid as it evaporates across the temperature spectrum.
This dynamic convection is why the Firefly 2+ produces vapor that just tastes good. This feature doesn't require set up, it happens automatically with each puff!
Vapor Quality
As we just mentioned, the Firefly 2+ creates vapor with unmatched quality. Between the dynamic heating, the convection design, and the glass vapor path, you'll get incredible tasting vapor with each draw. After your first few sessions, you'll be pulling delicious vapor with every single puff.
The Davinci IQ also produces high-quality vapor. However, the traditional conduction heating will limit how consistent that vapor quality is, though it's safe to say that the Davinci will still produce solid vapor. It's all-ceramic pathway and great heating options will still produce a great vaping experience for those that enjoy conduction vaping.
Features
The Firefly 2+ offers on-demand, dynamic convection heating that is supported by a companion app. Aside from that, you won't see many other features, since the device is dedicated to straightforward, dry herb vaping.
Figure 4 Wood-grain Firefly 2+ held in hand
The Davinci IQ offers precision conduction heating that is also supported by a companion app. In addition to precision heating, you'll have access to "smart paths." As we mentioned before, these smart paths are designed to target different boiling points for different cannabinoids, so you can more accurately control what you vaporize and your high.
Smart paths are great for beginners, but precision heating in both devices will allow manual targeting of cannabinoids.
Performance
Vapers will love the performance of each device, though you'll want to be sure you pick the device that fits your vaping habits best. The Davinci IQ takes longer to heat but is packed with beginner-friendly heating options. It will provide more vaping sessions and will create larger plumes of vapor.
The Firefly 2+ offers on-demand heating, straightforward precision heating options, but offers less battery life (though batteries charge more quickly). The dynamic convection technology produces superior vapor taste and will produce less vapor compared to the Davinci IQ, though the vapor won't be any less potent.
Cleaning
The Firefly 2+ is one of the most easily cleaned vaporizers on the market. All you have to do is remove the metal faceplate and gently use a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol to remove residue. You can remove the mouthpiece and easily clean the vapor path and the filter screen.
The Davinci IQ takes a bit more effort to clean. You'll need to remove the heating chamber and use a brush to give the vapor path a thorough cleaning. However, since the internal components are ceramic, you won't need to worry about accidentally breaking or damaging these components.
Overall, neither device is particularly difficult to clean, though the Firefly 2+ happens to be especially easy to clean.
Conclusion
Both the Firefly 2+ and the Davinci IQ offer an excellent vaping experience. While each offers its own unique perks, there's also a lot of overlap between the positive benefits they offer (like app-controlled precision heating and removable batteries). To summarize, here's a quick look at each of their strongest benefits.
The Firefly 2+ offers:
On-demand heating
Dynamic Convection heating
An emphasis on vapor flavor
Extremely easy cleaning
The Davinci IQ offers:
Sleek and small design
Longer battery life with 18650 batteries
Beginner-friendly heating profiles
More vapor production (at the expense of flavor)
Now, it's time for you to choose. There's not an objective right or wrong answer for which vape is better. Instead, you'll need to take a catalog of what you want most out of a vaporizer and see which device best fits what you want. If you take the time to make sure you know what you're looking for, you'll likely land on the perfect device for you!
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Cannabis Education
How to Use a Vape Pen for THC, CBD, and More
For most vaping beginners, the first device they will use will be a vape pen. These devices are usually budget-friendly, easy-to-use, and easy to maintain devices, but that doesn't mean there aren’t some basic things you should learn about vaping before jumping in.
This article will talk about what a vape pen is, the essential components of what makes a vape pen work, and the best way to maintain the device for long-term use. We'll also discuss various substances you can enjoy with a vape pen and how to choose the best substance and device for your lifestyle.
What is a Vape Pen?
A vape pen is a small, cylindrical device that often looks very similar to a traditional ball-point pen. Most vape pens have an internal battery and are designed to attach to various oil cartridges. The result is a device that quickly and easily produces vapor (not smoke) from your choice of vape juice, CBD, or THC oil.
Parts of a Vape Pen
While the parts of a vape pen can vary depending on the specific model you have, most have core components that are the same across devices.
Vape Battery
The vape battery is what makes the entire vaping process possible. It's the heaviest part of the vape pen and usually has a 510 threaded connection to attach to different e-juice or oil cartridges. Some batteries will have a button that allows the user to turn the device on and off or adjust heat settings, while others have no additional features.
Vape Cartridge
The vape cartridge is what connects to the vape battery. Inside of the cartridge, you'll find your chosen vaping substance, as well as an atomizer that will heat the oil to create vapor. Most vape cartridges will have a connected mouthpiece where you can take hits of vapor.
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How to Use a Vape Pen
Vape pens work in a very straightforward way.
First, you will power on the device, usually by clicking the power button five times. Most vape pens will light up, letting you know that they have successfully powered on.
Then, you will press and hold the power button. This will send a stream of power to the atomizer, which will create vapor. It makes vapor instantly, so as soon as you press and hold the power button, you'll be able to take a hit right away. Depending on the viscosity of what you vape, it may take a few moments to get thick, strong hits of vapor.
Once you have vaped your fill, you will press the power button five times to turn the device off. If you have a draw-fire vape, you will skip any steps that involve a button. Instead, you'll take a draw, and the device will create vapor. When you're done, stop taking puffs! The device will turn off on its own.
Keep It Charged and Stored Properly
The last thing you want to do is be ready for a relaxing vape session and have the battery be dead. Make sure your vape pen has a full charge, especially after an extended vaping session. It would help if you also stored the vape pen at average room temperature to protect the battery. That means you should NOT leave it in your car for any reason!
Try Disposable Vape Pens When Traveling
Suppose you want to avoid the hassle of keeping track of a vape pen and cartridges while on the go, consider a disposable vape pen. Disposables are ready to vape right out of the box. They will have an ultimately charged battery and a full tank of vape juice or oil. The Firefly Mini is a fantastic choice for a high-end, oil disposable pen while you travel.
What Is THC?
THC is the compound responsible for creating the feeling of being "high" commonly associated with consuming marijuana products. THC is short for tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the active cannabinoid in marijuana. Too much THC can cause paranoia and other symptoms of psychosis, but it is impossible to overdose on THC.
Aside from being responsible for the classic psychoactive properties of marijuana, THC is also used to treat various pain. Research suggests it can be used to treat nerve pain effectively, primarily when used together with CBD. THC is also commonly used to treat nausea and other adverse side effects from treatments like chemotherapy.
How to Use a Vape Pen for THC
The process of vaping THC oil won't vary from vaping any other oil, but you need to pay attention to how much you vape. Many vapers are used to creating large vape clouds from nicotine-infused e-liquids, but you shouldn't have similar expectations from vaping THC oils.
Instead, it would be best if you vaped THC by taking one or two hits at a time and waiting about 15 minutes in between each hit. If the high you feel is strong enough, put the pen aside and relax! If you need more, take one or two more puffs and wait again.
Vaping too much THC won't cause any severe health problems, but it can trigger bouts of paranoia and general discomfort. Continuously vape THC slowly and patiently, so you don't end up uncomfortably high.
What is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is another cannabinoid commonly found in cannabis. CBD is the prominent cannabinoid in hemp, though there are strains of marijuana with significant levels of CBD. In recent years, CBD has exploded in popularity, both because of its availability and promising medicinal effects.
Unlike THC, CBD does not create any psychoactive effects, meaning it won't get you high. However, research suggests that it can be used as an effective pain-management tool, especially when controlling and eliminating inflammation. It may also be effective in helping to manage anxiety and depression.
How to Use a Vape Pen for CBD Cartridges
Much like when vaping THC, you want to take it slow when you vape CBD cartridges. Vaping too much isn't going to cause health problems (just like THC), but it can cause discomfort or gastric distress. We recommend taking one or two hits and waiting 15 minutes to see how you feel.
If you are using CBD to manage anxiety or depression, you'll need to keep track of how much you vape and how often you vape. This will make it easy to see if you need to increase or decrease your dosage or if you need to take puffs more frequently throughout the day.
How to Choose a Vape Pen
As soon as you learn how to use a vape pen, it’s time to go shopping for one! So, how can you choose the right vape pen for you and your unique preferences and routines? Here are a few traits to consider:
Size
Most cannabis vape pens are handheld in size, making it convenient for users to carry them in their pockets or purses. They are easy to handle because they are portable and can be used on the go.
In general, the handheld size works for most consumers. In fact, there are now mini models that increase discretion and portability for tight spaces or concealment. Other vape pens might be larger in size for higher battery capability, or because they’re older models. If discretion is important for you, or if you travel a lot, going for a mini model is a good idea.
Vape Material
After learning how to use a vape pen, an essential thing to consider before buying one is the type of material you’ll be consuming. Some vaporizers are equipped to handle vaporizing oil, concentrates and flower, while some can only handle one of them.
Depending on your unique preferences, you’ll want to ensure you get a vape pen that is known to be good at handling the type of material you plan on consuming the most.
Vape Coil
Last but not the least, as a first-time buyer you need to keep in mind that the type of vape coil your vape pen should be equipped with will determine the longevity, durability, taste, and smoothness. The three most common types of coil are wicks, quartz, and ceramic.
If you’re a flavor connoisseur, we would recommend you try ceramic due to its ability to enhance taste. If you’re the type of consumer who requires quick hits over elevated flavor, then you should definitely go for quartz coils because they heat up faster.
It helps if your vape pen offers a wide range of temperature controls so you can choose the heating level that’s best for the material you most often consume.
How to Store a Vape Pen
It is important for those just introduced to vaping to learn how to properly store a vape pen. Vape pens should be stored in an upright position in a room-temperature environment. The upright position will prevent accidental oil leaks from the cartridge, which will create a giant, sticky mess. It will also stop oil from traveling into the vapor path, which could obstruct the vapor flow when you're ready to vape next.
Excessively high or low temperatures can damage your vape battery. As we said earlier, storing your vape pen in a car is a huge mistake. The extreme heat can damage your battery, and in some instances, can cause your battery to leak and catch fire. As with any electronic device, your vape pen should have a permanent home in a climate-controlled environment.
Find the Right Vape Pen for You
Vape pens are a standard product, and you can find them in a variety of retailers. This includes brick-and-mortar vape shops, dispensaries, and online retailers.
Disposable vaping is a smart way to learn what you do and don't like about vaping oils. If you are new to vaping, take a look at the Firefly Mini. It is a high-end, easy-to-use disposable vape that serves as a fantastic introduction into the world of vaping.
If you're interested in branching out from vape oils and vaping dry herbs, check out our flagship device, the Firefly 2+. It provides an outstanding vaping experience, and many of our customers have converted from vaping oils to dry herbs specifically for this device.
Reach out to us if you have any questions about vaping or how our specific products could meet your vaping needs!
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Cannabis Education
How to Sober Up From Weed
Marijuana can be a fantastic way to manage pain, treat certain mental disorders, and relax. While enjoying weed definitely has fewer drawbacks than drinking too much alcohol, getting too high too quickly can create a miserable experience. This is common with those new to marijuana or seasoned users trying a stronger form of weed (like dabs) for the first time.
Luckily, there are ways that you can counteract getting too high. In this article, we'll talk about what it really means to be "too high," how to sober up from being too stoned, and steps you can take to avoid getting too high in the future.
How Long Does THC Stay in Your System?
How long you stay high once you've ingested THC will depend on what method you used to consume it and how much of it you consumed. If you vaped or smoked, you'll typically start to feel the effects within 10-15 minutes, with those effects lasting several hours (usually capping between three and four hours).
Dabs
Smoking or vaping a dab will give you a more intense and often longer high. Dabs (usually in the form of wax) have concentrated amounts of THC (much higher than marijuana flower). That means the high can hit within a few minutes and will last 1-3 hours. While the high will be much more intense, its duration will last close to the same as other inhalation methods.
Depending on how concentrated your dab is, it's possible that the high could last longer (especially if you take several hits). Regardless, we do not recommend that beginners start with dabs, as it will be very easy to get too high too quickly.
Edibles
Unlike dabs and bud, the THC from edibles is absorbed through your digestive system (not your lungs). Since the THC has to work its way through your stomach and your liver, it takes much longer to actually feel high. It usually takes 30-60 minutes to feel the effects of an edible (and sometimes longer).
However, edibles make up for their delay in how potent they are. When THC is processed in the liver, it is changed to 11-Hydroxy metabolite, which is much more potent than THC. Even if you take an edible with a small amount of THC in it, you can still get extremely high from it.
This means it's easy for beginners to get too high on edibles, since it's slow to hit and hits much harder than typical vaping or smoking.
How Long Can You Detect THC in Your System?
While the effects of THC can be noticeable for several hours, you can actually test positive for THC use for weeks, even months after you've taken a hit or popped an edible. This does not mean you'll be high this long, but since THC binds to lipids (like your body fat), it can remain detectable for weeks or months.
You should keep in mind the more you use THC products, the more THC builds up in your body fat. If you're a heavy user and stop, it can easily be months before all of the THC has cleared from your body.
How Will I Know If I'm Too High?
As the former US Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart famously said on how to tell the difference between art and porn, you'll "know it when you see it." There's no particular threshold of being high that should trigger alarms since it's practically impossible to overdose on THC. Instead, "being too high" means you are stoned enough to feel physically or mentally uncomfortable. More extreme symptoms of being too high include:
Pronounced paranoia and anxiety
Panic attacks
Motor-function impairment
Hallucinations
Irrational thoughts
Nausea
If you feel any of these symptoms strongly, you're likely too high. While you shouldn’t be at physical risk for consuming too much marijuana, it's still not comfortable to be afraid, anxious, or delusional. These symptoms can run counter to the typical effects of feeling high, which are often the exact opposite of these symptoms.
More importantly, if you experience psychotic thoughts or hallucinations, you may end up putting yourself in danger (even if the THC itself isn't a health risk).
Can I Overdose on THC?
No. While a hypothetical lethal dose of THC exists, it's essentially impossible to overdose on THC. If you were smoking or vaping, you'd pass out (often called greening out) before you got anywhere close to a lethal dose. If you were taking edible, you'd risk a toxic dose of salt or sugar from the candy before you'd be in danger of THC.
That being said, you shouldn't take an enormous dose of THC you aren't ready for. If it triggers a psychotic episode, you may put yourself at a safety risk or make irrational decisions (like attempting to drive). Even if you can't overdose, you should try not to get too high, and you should keep the following steps in mind on how to sober up!
How Can I Prevent Getting Too High?
Once you're too high, it can be difficult to sober up without waiting it out. The best way to avoid the experience is to have a firm plan in place to not get too high in the first place. That can be easier said than done (especially for newbies), but there are easy strategies you can follow to avoid getting too high.
Vape or Smoke Slowly
If vaping or smoking for the first time, go slow! Take one or two hits and then wait 15-20 minutes for the effects to kick in. From there, if you feel like you need more, take one or two more hits and wait again. Vaping in an incremental way makes it extremely difficult to get too high.
Start with Low-Dose Edibles
Edibles can provide a very strong high, much stronger than vaping or smoking. This is why it's important to start with low-dose edibles for your first few times (usually around 5mg). It can take 30 minutes to an hour for edibles to kick in, so it may take you a few tries to find an ideal dose that gets you pleasantly high (but not too high).
You should take extra precautions when using edibles since the high can not only be stronger, but it can last much, much longer. Start with low doses and work your way up to something comfortable!
What Are the Typical Results of Getting High?
Negative side-effects of marijuana are not the typical experience of consuming weed. In fact, when you control your dosage and are in a comfortable environment to get high, the results of THC intoxication can be very enjoyable. Some of the more positive effects of getting high include:
General euphoria (or just feeling physically and mentally good)
Possible pain reduction
Calmness and relaxation
Warped perceptions of time (it may feel like time moves very slowly or that time moves very quickly)
Increased appetite (often called "the munchies")
Increased creative energy
These positive effects are why vaping or consuming THC has grown in popularity. Weed is often used to help sleep disorders, certain mental disorders, and chronic pain. It's also often used recreationally because who doesn't enjoy feeling relaxed and happy?
You'll quickly learn that, while the typical effects of getting high are good, it's important to not get too high. Otherwise, you'll risk those nasty side effects we mentioned earlier.
How to Sober Up From Weed
There's not a way to magically become "un high" if you feel you've become too stoned. If you are starting to experience uncomfortable symptoms of being too high, there are steps you can take to alleviate the uncomfortable experience and get back to the good parts of being high! Take a look at how to sober up from weed fast.
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Snack
When you get too high, it's easy to get "stuck" in your head and get disconnected from the outside world. These are common symptoms of a panic attack, and one of the best ways to fight against a panic attack is to "reconnect" or "ground" yourself back to reality. One of the best ways to do that is through taste, so if you're too high, take a nibble of a tasty snack!
Drinking water and staying hydrated is always a good idea. Consuming THC can cause dry mouth, but it doesn't actually cause dehydration as alcohol intake does. Regardless, getting a cool drink of water (or your choice of non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverage) is another great way to ground your mind if you feel yourself panicking because you're too high.
Chew on Peppercorns or Lemon Slices
You may think we recommend chewing on peppercorns or lemons because they have strong flavors. While that helps, there is actually interesting science at work when you take a nibble of a lemon rind or a peppercorn. They both have terpenes, which promote different moods and mindsets. In marijuana, terpenes can affect the "kind" of high you have and how it hits.
When you nibble on black pepper, you'll be ingesting pinene, and caryophyllene terpenes, which research indicates can help counteract the high of THC. Lemons have limonene, which is now to have relaxing and anti-stress properties, which is perfect for when you are spiraling because you've had too much weed.
It can be hard to get these items if you're way too stoned. If you're concerned about getting too high, grab some lemon rinds and peppercorns before you start vaping!
Take a Deep Breath and Get Comfortable
The most important thing you can do to stop spiraling when you're too high is to mentally take control again. Take a long, deep breath to ground yourself and calm your thoughts. Get into a physically comfortable position, which will help you relax. You may even end up falling asleep!
When you are taking deep, controlled breaths, remind yourself that you are not in physical danger, you are not experiencing a medical emergency, and that the uncomfortable parts of being too high will eventually pass.
Take a Shower or a Bath
Taking a hot shower or bath will help sober you up in several different ways. First, a warm shower will help you relax if you're struggling with panic or anxiety. Next, contact with the hot water will help ground you (similarly to how tasting a potent flavor would).
Some claim that a hot shower actually dampens a THC high, though there isn't much research or science behind the claim. Regardless, a warm bath or shower can help relax and calm you during a difficult high!
Find a Distraction
It's easy to get trapped in your head and experience looping thoughts if you're too high. An excellent way to get out of your own head is to find a distraction to keep your thoughts occupied. This could be a TV show that is a go-to comfort series, a video game, a fidget (like a fidget-spinner or a silicone pop mat).
Regardless of what you use, a distraction can help you take the focus off being too high and onto an external distraction.
Use a Safety Plan
After you've been high (or too high) a few times, you'll start to get a good idea of what problems you might face. If you've been uncomfortably high a couple of times, be sure to note:
What caused you to get too high? (edibles, dabs, or just vaping too much?)
What part of being high did you not enjoy?
What helped you calm down?
What made your anxiety or panic worse?
Having a plan in place makes it easy to take steps to calm yourself down if you find yourself uncomfortably high. This will be useful if you plan on getting high in an unfamiliar place (like a friend's house or while camping) since you can pack items that will help soothe you.
Take CBD
CBD, which is another cannabinoid found in cannabis, may be able to help sober you up from a THC high. Research suggests that CBD can counteract THC's psychoactive properties, which means CBD might help sober you up or prevent getting too high, to begin with.
The science on how CBD and THC interact is still new, and scientists are still studying how they both interact with the human body. Even if CBD doesn't directly interfere with your body absorbing THC, it still can provide calming, anti-anxiety properties that can still help you when you're too high.
How to Use CBD
There are a lot of different ways you can use CBD. However, if you plan on having it handy if you get too high on THC, there are a few methods that will work best. They include:
Oil tinctures
Dry herb vaping (specifically hemp)
CBD edibles
These methods will get CBD into your bloodstream quickly, so you could start feeling the effects in 20 minutes. If you use a tincture or edibles, it could take up to an hour for the CBD to start taking effect.
The Bottom Line
Weed is a useful (and fun) tool, but it's important to create positive experiences if you plan on vaping or consuming weed on a regular basis. Remember, there are easy ways to enjoy being high without having to worry about getting too high:
Be mindful of your dosage (and if you aren't sure how much to take, start low and go slow)
Enjoy THC in a safe, comfortable space (especially if it will be your first time)
Have plenty of snacks and non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages handy
Stock up on lemon rinds, peppercorns, and CBD products to counteract a strong high
Make sure you are around friends that you trust and will help if you get too high
The more you enjoy weed, the easier it will be to avoid getting too high. Just be sure to enjoy responsibly and safely!
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Vape Guides
Does Vaping Make You Gain Weight?
Intro
As popular as vaping is, there are bound to be all kinds of weird myths surrounding the practice. You may be surprised to find that many of the facts you think you know about vaping are half-truths at best or complete fabrications at worst. One of the most common myths we're asked about is whether vaping makes you gain weight.
There are a lot of different reasons this myth persists, and this article is going to get to the bottom of them. We’ll explore a few common myths about vaping, whether or not vaping makes you gain weight, and why some of these beliefs exist in the first place.
The Myths
Vape juices come in a wide variety of flavors, and it's not uncommon to find sweet, candy-oriented juices. Some have thought that, because these flavors mimic candy, that vaping them might cause weight gain.
Vaping Is Calorie-Free
Fortunately, you have no need to worry about ingesting calories through vaping, regardless of the flavor. While most vape juices have "calories" listed, you don't absorb any of the calories when vaping. You'd need to actually swallow and ingest the juice to produce a caloric intake (which we absolutely do not recommend).
Even if you could ingest the calories from vape juice, it wouldn't be enough to gain weight. A bottle of vape juice may have 4 calories per mL, which is negligible. For reference, an entire cup of grapes has about 62 calories. You'd have to be vaping through several bottles of day, several times of the week, for the caloric content to impact your weight.
Why Do Vape Juice Bottles Have Calories Listed?
The nutrition facts that list calories on a bottle of vape juice reflect the calories of the ingredients listed. Technically, all objects have calories since calories are just a measure of the "energy" in a given object. Gasoline has a high caloric count, but that doesn't mean you want to eat it!
The main components in vape juice (like vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol) have calories, too. However, those aren't calories you need to be concerned with since the only way to make use of them is to actually swallow the juice.
So, Does Vaping Make You Fat?
There is currently no evidence to suggest that vaping can cause any kind of weight gain, regardless of the brand, flavor, or recipe you vape. As we mentioned earlier, you can't ingest the negligible number of calories that are present in vape juice anyway (because you're breathing it in, not eating it).
Vaping Dry Herb
There is nothing in e-liquids or vape juice that will make you gain weight when you vape. While dry herbs are completely different substances, there are no dry herbs you can vape that will make you gain weight, either. However, there are some side effects of certain dry herbs that could cause you to gain weight. Namely, the munchies!
If you vape marijuana, you're going to inhale a dose of THC, which is the compound responsible for creating marijuana's traditional ‘high’. THC accomplishes this by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in your brain. These receptors affect the strength of your appetite, which is why vaping marijuana is associated with increased appetite.
Since a THC-induced appetite isn't necessarily fixed by eating, you could end up eating a lot. If you vape weed on a regular basis (and consistently succumb to the munchies), you definitely could gain weight. Be sure to keep that in mind if you regularly vape.
Vaping Concentrates
Vaping concentrates is the same story as vaping dry herb. You should just be a little more cautious when vaping THC concentrates since the concentration of THC is far greater than what is found in loose-leaf marijuana. Much like dry herb and vape juices, there is nothing in concentrates that will cause weight gain by vaping.
Why You Could Gain Weight After Quitting Vaping
If you are transitioning away from vaping e-liquids infused with nicotine, it's not uncommon to notice some weight gain. While this may cause alarm, there's nothing to be concerned about. The common reason people gain weight when they move away from vaping is because they are no longer regularly consuming nicotine.
Nicotine is the addictive substance found in tobacco and many kinds of vape juices. It is also a stimulant, and research shows that stimulants can suppress your appetite. So, when you stop using a stimulant (like nicotine), you may notice a rebound in your appetite, which means you will want to eat more. More eating means it's more likely for you to gain weight.
Overall Metabolism Decrease
Aside from having a renewed appetite, you may experience weight gain after you stop vaping because your overall metabolism slows. Research shows that nicotine can increase the calories you burn while asleep up to 7-15%. This means, even if you effectively control your caloric intake, it's possible to gain weight because your body is burning through calories more slowly.
One Craving for Another
As you work your way through the withdrawals of nicotine, you may experience the urge to "replace" nicotine with something else that stimulates your brain. For many, that replacement can be rich, calorically dense foods (especially foods high in sugar). If you replace vaping with eating high-calorie foods, you definitely could experience some unexpected weight gain.
Food Tastes Better
When you stop vaping (depending on how much you were vaping and what flavor), you may find that you can smell and taste better. When you find that foods have a suddenly richer, more vibrant taste, the temptation to overeat may be present, which would contribute to weight gain.
Weight Gain Is Possible, but Not Guaranteed
Of course, quitting vaping doesn't mean you will gain weight. For the vast majority of the population, the only way to gain weight is to consume more calories than you burn. While an increased appetite and a slower metabolism make it more likely to gain weight when you stop, eating nutrient-rich foods and exercising can help you maintain your current weight levels.
Vaping and Weight Loss
Since nicotine is an appetite suppressant, many look to vaping as a way to control their weight. There definitely is research that suggests that vaping can contribute to weight loss, but vaping nicotine e-juices should only be part of your overall weight-loss strategy.
Regardless of how you're vaping nicotine, it can come with unpleasant side effects when you try to stop. The side effects include irritability, headaches, and even anxiety and depression. These symptoms only last up to a few weeks, and if you can manage to get past the worst of them, the withdrawal symptoms quickly begin to fade.
Vaping as Part of Your Weight Loss Strategy
While you should keep the side effects of nicotine withdrawal in mind, there's new research that suggests vaping can be an effective tool in your weight loss. Even with the drawbacks of nicotine, the advantages of avoiding obesity may outweigh the cons.
This could be true even for those that are not moving from tobacco to vaping since that study suggested the sweet, candy flavors may help reduce cravings for the real, sugary thing.
Additional Research to Back Up These Claims
There's more research to suggest that nicotine may be an unexpected partner in mitigating weight loss. In an animal study involving mice, nicotine use reduced insulin resistance in obese rats, which helped to lower their overall glucose levels. This can help reduce your cravings for sugar, which can help you control your weight more effectively.
These newer studies regarding nicotine are promising since there's already a mountain of literature about the concerns of chronic, long-term use of nicotine. For those that have struggled with weight loss, nicotine might be a short-term solution in jump-starting your weight loss journey.
Always Consult Your Primary Care Physician
As with any new health regimen, you should always consult with your primary care physician before introducing something new into a weight-loss regimen. This is especially true if you have pre-existing conditions that nicotine may make worse.
For example, nicotine may increase your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes. If your doctor thinks you're already at a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, they may dissuade you from using nicotine as a method to lose weight.
While newer research suggests that nicotine might be a helpful weight loss tool, you should always make the decision to begin using it under the consultation of your doctor. This not only includes the use of nicotine but any significant diet change (like intermittent fasting) or the introduction of intense exercise.
Removing Weight Gain Fears
Making sure to maintain a healthy body weight is important. After all, the health risks of obesity are very serious. However, you can rest assured that vaping e-liquids will not contribute to unexpected weight gain. Here's a quick summary of why you don't need to be concerned:
Vaping does not ingest calories (even with sweet, candy flavors).
Currently, there is no research to suggest that any ingredient in common e-liquids would cause weight gain.
While stopping nicotine use can cause short-term weight gain, it's not a guarantee.
Focusing on eating nutrient-dense foods and getting regular exercise have a far greater impact on your weight than any kind of vaping or nicotine use.
While the risks of nicotine use should be considered, weight gain is not a problem you need to be concerned with when considering vaping.
Conclusion
Vaping causing weight gain is a myth that has been debunked for quite some time. Also, keep in mind that you can enjoy vaping without using nicotine at all. There are many e-liquids that are sold without nicotine, which allows users to enjoy making giant clouds of delicious tasting vapor.
Others vape for medicinal reasons. For example, many look to CBD-infused vape juices to treat pain or avoid e-liquids altogether, opting to vape dry herbs like hemp or marijuana. If you've considered vaping dry herbs, we recommend using the Firefly 2+ to do so. It uses advanced convection heating to produce smooth, great-tasting vapor!
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Vape Guides
How Does CBD Make You Feel?
Intro
CBD has continued to steadily grow in popularity over the past several years. Between the potential to treat chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and even certain kinds of addiction, CBD has developed a large, loyal following and is likely here to stay!
For those that are new to CBD, they may have concerns about how it will physically make them feel. Many people who have tried medical marijuana can't tolerate the strong high it often provides, and those looking to CBD may have similar concerns. How does CBD make you feel, and what effects should a new user be most aware of?
In this article, the experts will give you the details of some of the benefits of CBD, how CBD physically makes you feel, in addition to a variety of answers to common concerns new users have.
What Is CBD Vaping?
CBD vaping is used to describe ingesting CBD specifically through a vaporizer. You can find disposable vaporizers pre-filled with CBD oil, disposable cartridges with CBD oil, and even bottles of CBD vape juice meant for use in a box-mod and vape tank setup.
CBD vaping is one of the most popular forms of vaping due to the unique advantages it offers. If you've never vaped CBD before, consider some of the following benefits that it provides:
Easy, quick access to getting a dose of CBD
Quick physical impact (faster than swallowing tincture oil or edibles)
Cost-effective and easy to find in physical and online retailers
While CBD vaping most commonly refers to oil or vape juice setups, it can also refer to dry herb vapes that use hemp or wax vapes that use CBD concentrate.
What Are the Benefits of CBD?
CBD has the potential to offer all kinds of health benefits to its users. While the only FDA-approved treatment involving CBD is for severe seizures, there are a number of other hopeful treatments that are promising in preliminary research:
Relief From Chronic Pain and Inflammation
If you suffer from chronic pain or inflammation, CBD may offer a fantastic alternative to traditional pain management. Research suggests that CBD can be used as a powerful anti-inflammatory, including chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease.
In fact, CBD as a pain management tool is one of the reasons it has grown so popular so quickly. It stands as an alternative to opioids, which can lead to addiction and other less than savory side effects.
Treatment of Depression and Anxiety
CBD may offer an alternative for depression and anxiety treatment, especially for those who struggle with the side effects of traditional selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (or SSRIs). For those that struggle with anxiety (including associated with PTSD), CBD may offer effective treatment.
Human studies involving CBD and depression are still few and far between, but studies using animal models have demonstrated that CBD may provide effective treatment of depression. It could even be effective in treating severe psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
CBD to Treat Opioid Addiction
Opioid addiction (formally called opioid use disorder, or OUD) is difficult to treat, and current FDA-approved medications often have their own harsh side effects. Animal studies with mice showed that CBD reduced the ability of opioids to trigger the "pleasure center" of the brain and otherwise reduced the tendency to seek out more.
Treatment of Insomnia
While studies are still few in number regarding how CBD can help with sleep disorders, early research is very promising. While it requires heavier doses, studies show that CBD can have a sedating effect on those that struggle to fall and stay asleep. That same research shows that, across various sleep disorders, CBD use provided a net increase in sleep.
CBD Vape vs. CBD Oil
Flexible vaping terminology can cause confusion among those who are new to both CBD and vaping. While terms like oil or vape juice are often used interchangeably, they can also refer to two distinct products.
CBD Tincture Oil
CBD tincture oil is sold in jars with an eyedropper and is meant for oral consumption. A few drops are placed under the tongue and swallowed, often providing potent, long-lasting effects. If you can't count on vaping throughout the day (or want something that will last through the night), CBD tincture oil may prove to be a fantastic fit.
CBD Vape Juice
CBD vape juice (sometimes called vape oil or e-liquids) is a product specifically formulated for vaporization. It will usually contain a mixture of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG), which are fantastic for making vapor and terrible for consumption. You should never directly ingest vape juice, regardless of whether it has CBD.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis (THC being another popular cannabinoid). As a cannabinoid, CBD can interact with the human endocannabinoid system. This system was discovered in the 1990s, and our understanding of how exactly it works is still improving.
That being said, scientists feel somewhat certain that the endocannabinoid system can influence the following common functions:
Appetite
Mood regulation
Sleep cycles
Memory formation and recall
Anecdotally, these possible functions correspond heavily with how we know THC or cannabis affects the body. Smoking weed often causes the munchies, can help relax or trigger paranoia and can affect the ability to form short-term memories.
If you have ever heard that it's essentially impossible to overdose on cannabis, its interaction with the endocannabinoid system is why. Cannabinoids don't interact with parts of your brain related to a function required for living (like your heart beating), so there's no overdose risk.
Effects of Vaping CBD
If you have never vaped CBD or cannabis, you may be curious exactly what the experience is like. While the best teacher is experience, there are some common effects you can expect to experience when you vape CBD. Since you're vaping, most will feel these effects very quickly.
Relaxation
If you vape a heavy dose of CBD, you'll likely feel relaxed or sleepy. If you're thinking about using CBD to help you fall asleep and stay asleep, taking several strong puffs shortly before going to bed may help you fall asleep fast! The effect happens quickly, which is why vaping CBD may be a useful tool in treating acute anxiety.
Focus or Energy
If you take a small dose of CBD, you may experience heightened focus or a little boost of energy. For some, you may also still feel the relaxing/sedating effects we described before, but they're less frequent with weaker doses.
How Does CBD Make You Feel?
How CBD makes you feel is a person-by-person experience. It will also depend on what strain of cannabis the CBD is derived from (unless you are consuming CBD-isolate products) since different levels of background cannabinoids and terpenes can affect your overall experience.
In general, most can expect to feel the following when using CBD products:
Relaxed
Calm
Sleepy
Focused
If you take too much CBD too quickly, you may experience more negative feelings. While less common, they can occur. If you experience these, think about adjusting your CBD dosage or how fast you take it in:
Anxious
Irritable
Again, CBD impacts different people in different ways. We recommend starting with a low dose and working your way up to a level that feels good!
How Long Does It Take to Feel CBD After Vaping?
The time will vary from user to user, as well as how strong your dose is. However, most people who vape CBD will feel some kind of effect within 15-30 minutes after their first puff. When you inhale the vapor, CBD is absorbed through your lungs directly into your bloodstream, which is why it hits so much more quickly than if you eat an edible or swallow oil from a tincture.
If you have waited within that time frame and you feel little to no effect, take another puff! You may need several hits of CBD vapor, especially if you are using CBD to treat acute pain. As long as you take it slow, try slowly increasing your CBD dosage until you feel a solid effect.
Does CBD Get You High?
CBD does not get you high. The substance found in cannabis that is responsible for the traditional high users feel is THC, which is a psychoactive cannabinoid. Full-spectrum CBD products (or products that have the "full-spectrum" of cannabinoids found in cannabis) will have trace amounts of THC. These trace amounts are not enough to give a user any kind of high.
CBD can produce some physical effects that could impair you. While you won't be intoxicated (like with alcohol or THC), strong sedative effects may be a problem if you need to use CBD throughout the day. As we've said, when you start using CBD, start with low doses and work your way to comfortable amounts.
Will CBD Vape Make Me Fail a Drug Test?
It is possible that certain CBD products will cause you to fail a drug test. If you are drug tested regularly, it is vital that you understand the difference between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate.
What Is Full-Spectrum CBD?
We mentioned full-spectrum CBD earlier, but it's good to highlight it here again. Full-spectrum CBD products contain mostly CBD and trace amounts of other cannabinoids and terpenes found in cannabis. If you use full-spectrum products on a regular basis, you may test positive for THC use, even if you have only been using legal products.
If you have been using a dry herb vaporizer with hemp, consider that a full-spectrum product, too. For those looking to enjoy CBD but need to avoid any amount of THC whatsoever, then consider CBD isolate products.
What is CBD Isolate?
As the name implies, CBD isolate has "isolated" CBD. That means it is the only cannabinoid present, including small, trace amounts. True CBD isolate won't test positive on a drug test (because there isn't any THC at all), but you need to be sure you are buying from a brand that is selling real CBD isolate and not a knock-off.
Reputable brands that sell CBD isolate will have laboratory tests available demonstrating that their product is pure. You can also expect to pay much more for CBD isolates than full-spectrum products since the refining process for isolates is much more labor-intensive. Cost aside, CBD isolate offers a great solution for those that want to use CBD but can't risk failing a drug test.
Conclusion
CBD is a product that so many consumers have come to love. It's important that you buy from reputable brands that offer genuine CBD and have the lab reports to prove it. This becomes even more important if you are seeking out CBD isolate in order to avoid failing drug tests. If a price seems too good to be true, it likely is!
Many vapers that can safely enjoy full-spectrum products look to vaping hemp in a dry herb vaporizer since it offers a cost-effective, potent source of CBD. For those looking for tasty, potent puffs of hemp, we recommend using the Firefly 2+. It uses premium convection heating to create consistent, delicious puffs of vapor for hemp or your favorite dry herb!
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