For cannabis enthusiasts, smoking weed can be an enjoyable experience—except for one persistent issue: coughing. While there’s no denying that inhaling any smoke can irritate the lungs, coughing can often put a damper on the experience. If you’ve ever taken a hit and found yourself hacking uncontrollably, you’re not alone. “Canna-cough” is a common phenomenon that plagues new and seasoned smokers alike.
Although smoking cannabis doesn’t carry the same health risks as smoking tobacco, it’s essential to recognize that inhaling any form of smoke can impact the lungs. Research has shown that smoking weed, particularly in high amounts, can lead to coughing and other minor respiratory issues. But the good news is there are several effective strategies for reducing that pesky cough when you smoke. Here, we’ll dive deep into the top five tips for minimize coughing when smoking cannabis, backed by both research and practical advice.
Before exploring ways to reduce coughing, it’s helpful to understand why cannabis can cause it in the first place. When you inhale smoke, whether it’s from cannabis or tobacco, it irritates the lining of the throat and esophagus. The body’s natural response to this irritation is to cough, an attempt to clear the lungs of any foreign particles. According to Dr. Donald Tashkin, a prominent researcher in cannabis studies, habitual cannabis smokers often experience symptoms of bronchitis, including chronic coughing, which generally ceases upon quitting.
In fact, Tashkin’s research suggests that a quarter of regular marijuana users will experience some form of "canna-cough" in their lifetime. So, what can you do about it? Below, we outline five effective methods to help you reduce coughing when enjoying cannabis.
1. Use a Bong with a Percolator or Diffuser
A percolator, or “perc,” is an additional water chamber added to a bong that helps cool and filter the smoke before it reaches your lungs. By adding an extra layer of filtration, percolators help provide a smoother hit, reducing the harshness of the smoke and making it less likely to trigger coughing. You might notice various percolator designs, each with the same goal: to improve the smoke-to-water ratio and deliver a more comfortable, enjoyable hit.
Another addition to consider is a diffuser, which is a stem attachment with tiny holes that breaks the smoke into smaller bubbles before it hits the water. This process increases the contact area between the smoke and water, helping to cool it even further and providing an even gentler hit. Here are some benefits of using a percolator or diffuser:
Cooler smoke temperature: Reduces lung and throat irritation.
Increased filtration: Filters out additional particles, making it less harsh.
Smoother inhale: Lessens the likelihood of coughing fits.
If you’re interested in trying out these additions, most bongs can be customized to fit percolators and diffusers, so check your local dispensary or smoke shop.
2. Take Smaller Hits or Deep Breaths
While large hits can intensify your high, they can also lead to more intense coughing fits, especially if your lung capacity isn’t accustomed to handling large amounts of smoke at once. If you frequently find yourself in a coughing fit after a big hit, try scaling down to smaller, more manageable hits. Smaller hits allow you to enjoy a smoother smoking experience and minimize the irritation to your throat and lungs.
Alternatively, some users benefit from deep breathing techniques when smoking. Inhaling deeply and slowly helps fill your lungs more evenly, reducing the likelihood of coughing. Here are some helpful practices:
Smaller hits: Take less smoke at once, especially if you’re prone to coughing.
Deep breaths: Inhale slowly and fully into your lungs, then exhale just as gently.
Controlled exhalation: Avoid expelling the smoke too forcefully; this reduces the strain on your throat.
Try practicing a deep breathing exercise before smoking to help your lungs relax. This can aid in smoother inhalation and help you avoid coughing due to rushed or forceful hits.
3. Consider Edibles Instead of Smoking
If you’re open to trying other methods of cannabis consumption, edibles offer a smoke-free way to experience the effects of cannabis. Edibles come in a wide range of forms, from gummies and chocolates to more complex recipes you can make at home with decarboxylated weed. While edibles take longer to kick in (usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours), they provide a longer-lasting and often more intense high without irritating your lungs.
When using edibles, remember:
Start with a low dose: Edibles can be much more potent than inhaled cannabis, so start small and gradually increase as needed.
Prepare for delayed effects: Edibles take longer to activate, so patience is key.
Stay hydrated: Just like with smoking, hydration is essential to avoid dry mouth and enhance comfort.
For those particularly sensitive to smoke, edibles offer a practical, cough-free solution that eliminates the need to inhale any irritants altogether.
4. Choose High-Quality Weed & Grind It Properly
The quality of your cannabis can significantly affect your smoking experience. High-quality, well-cured cannabis tends to burn more evenly and smoothly, minimizing the harshness that can cause coughing. If possible, purchase your weed from a reputable dispensary and inquire about the cultivation and curing process. Cannabis that hasn’t been cured properly or has been exposed to mold or pesticides can produce a much harsher smoke.
Additionally, properly grinding your weed ensures an even burn, reducing “hot spots” that can trigger coughing fits. Here’s how to make sure your weed quality is up to par:
Buy from trusted sources: A reputable dispensary can offer more information on the strain and quality.
Ask about cultivation practices: Avoid cannabis with potential contaminants like pesticides.
Use a high-quality grinder: A good grinder will ensure an even, consistent grind for smoother burning.
Taking these steps will not only improve your smoking experience but also enhance the flavor and aroma of your cannabis.
5. Keep Water (or Non-Alcoholic Beverages) Nearby
Hydration is key when smoking cannabis. Keeping a glass of water nearby can help soothe your throat if it becomes irritated and prevent coughing fits. Drinking water before, during, and after your smoke session can also help minimize the effects of dry mouth, a common side effect of cannabis use. Many users also find that sipping on hot tea or herbal infusions with honey can provide additional comfort for the throat.
Avoid alcohol, as it can dry out your throat and exacerbate coughing. Instead, try these hydration tips:
Sip water regularly: Frequent hydration helps soothe and protect the throat.
Try honey-infused tea: Honey can coat the throat and reduce irritation.
Chew gum or suck on hard candies: These can stimulate saliva production, keeping your throat moist.
Staying hydrated is a simple yet effective way to reduce coughing and make your cannabis experience more enjoyable.
Extra Tips for Reducing Canna-Cough
If you’re still experiencing coughing after trying these methods, here are a few additional tips to consider:
Avoid holding the smoke in too long: Your body absorbs cannabinoids quickly, so there’s no need to keep the smoke in your lungs for more than a second or two.
Draw smoke into your mouth first: Then, inhale it into your lungs along with some fresh air for a smoother experience.
Pack joints or bowls correctly: Ensure they’re neither too loose nor too tight to allow for a consistent airflow and avoid coughing.
Consider a vaporizer: Vaporizers heat cannabis without burning it, reducing the risk of lung irritation and coughing. Many people find this method much smoother.
Final Thoughts on Minimize Coughing When Smoking Cannabis
Smoking cannabis doesn’t have to come with a constant, uncomfortable cough. By taking a few simple steps, like adding a percolator to your bong, taking smaller hits, trying edibles, using high-quality cannabis, and staying hydrated, you can significantly reduce the chances of coughing. Remember that everyone’s body reacts differently to cannabis, so it may take some experimentation to find what works best for you.
If you continue to experience discomfort, consider switching to a vaporizer, which is often easier on the lungs. Ultimately, with the right approach and a little trial and error, you can enjoy a smooth, cough-free cannabis experience.
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