Vaping is a popular method for consuming CBD (cannabidiol) and has seen significant growth in recent years.
This trend can be attributed to the perceived benefits and effects of vape CBD oil. In terms of bioavailability, when vaping cannabidiol the body absorbs between 30% and 50% of the active ingredient into the lungs. In comparison, ingesting CBD in the form of an oil or taking it sublingually has a bioavailability of 5% to 20%. Absorption into the bloodstream and central nervous system is quick when vaping– within 1 hour – versus other methods that may take up to 4 hours.
CBD can be blended with standard flavored vape juice or directly with e-liquid carriers like propylene glycol, making it highly versatile. It can also be dabbed in concentrated form, as explained below.
Types of CBD for Vaping
Vaping CBD is a popular method for consuming the compound, and there are various forms of vape-able CBD available on the market. These include:
- E-liquids: Also known as vape juices or oils, e-liquids are typically a blend of vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol, flavors, and CBD extract. They are designed to be vaporized in an e-cigarette or vape pen.
- CBD Concentrates: Concentrates are highly potent forms of cannabidiol that have been extracted from hemp plants. These raw extracts have potency concentrations of CBD that may range from 70% to 90% cannabidiol.
Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum vs Isolate
When choosing a CBD concentrate or e-liquid, it is important to understand the different types of cannabidiol extract available.
Full spectrum
These products are the most popular because they contain all cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. These cannabinoids, along with other phytochemicals like terpenes, are extracted directly from the plant with very little follow-up processing. This means that full spectrum blends also contain the psychoactive cannabinoid THC. Though its potency is significantly below what is found in marijuana products (below 0.3% to meet federal regulations and be sold over the counter). When taken together, it is believed that all of the cannabinoids and terpenes found in these blends produce an entourage effect of benefits.
Broad spectrum
These CBD products are similar to full spectrum with one notable exception: they contain no THC. This cannabinoid is removed during the manufacturing process, so broad spectrum blends contain 0.0% THC. One drawback to broad spectrum blends is that other cannabinoids may also be partly removed. So, even though they contain the same phytochemicals as full spectrum blends, they may be less potent in broad spectrum blends.
CBD Isolate
This specific CBD type differs from these two types of concentrates in that it is pure cannabidiol with no other cannabinoids present. It’s most suitable for those who want only the effects of CBD without any additional compounds.
Concentrates in these spectrums can be blended into e-liquids for easy injection into vaping devices, but some users prefer to utilize concentrates without the carrier oils.
For those who prefer vaping high potency concentrates directly, understanding the types of concentrates available will make it easier to find the ideal product.
CBD Wax
CBD wax is a concentrated form of Cannabidiol (CBD) that’s used mainly in dabbing, a method quite different from traditional vaping. Unlike other forms of CBD like oil or vegetable glycerin-based solutions, CBD wax stands out due to its unique characteristics.
The first thing you’ll notice about CBD wax is its texture. It’s thick and waxy, hence the name. This texture results from the extraction process where the cannabinoids are pulled out from cannabis plants, leaving behind a dense, gooey substance. This substance is is sometimes referred to as distillate.
CBD Shatter
CBD shatter is a form of CBD isolate that is gaining popularity in the cannabis world. It’s a type of cannabis concentrate with a crystalline structure and high potency. Unlike other forms of cannabinoids, CBD shatter is so named because its structure is so hard and brittle that it will ‘shatter’ when handled.
The process to produce CBD shatter begins with extraction from the cannabis plant. The extracted compound then undergoes further refinement to remove any additional cannabinoids, resulting in pure CBD isolate. This isolate is then cooled and hardened into slabs which are shattered into smaller pieces for consumption.
Pure isolate has concentrations of cannabidiol over 99% and is also available in a concentrated CBD powder. This powder is easily blended into an e-liquid oil or can be vaped in the same way as shatter.
How To Vape Distillates, Wax and Shatter?
Dabbing involves heating up the distillate, wax or shatter until it vaporizes, then inhaling the vapors produced. A special device called a ‘dab rig’ is often used for this purpose.
Here are some steps involved in dabbing:
- Heat up your dab rig using a torch.
- Put a small amount of CBD wax on the end of your dab tool.
- Once heated up enough, apply the wax onto the nail inside your rig.
- Inhale slowly as you see vapor starting to form inside your rig.
This method allows users to experience quick effects since vaporized substances can be absorbed faster by our bodies compared to ingesting them orally or applying them topically.
While it may seem complicated at first glance, especially if you’re new to CBD vaping products. Many people find that they prefer this method once they get used to it because it allows them to take advantage of all the benefits that come with consuming highly potent forms like CBD distillate or wax.