Smoke (cannabis)
Definition:
Smoke is produced when organic substances, including cannabis flowers, are burned. When smoking cannabis, users inhale a complex mix of different chemical compounds that not only contain the desired psychoactive substances, but also numerous substances that are harmful to health.
Content and composition:
Cannabis smoke consists of several hundred chemical compounds, including
- Cannabinoids: Mainly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which are the main effects of cannabis.
- Carbon monoxide: A poisonous gas that impairs oxygen uptake in the blood.
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): Carcinogenic substances that are also found in tobacco smoke.
- Tar: A mixture of carcinogenic and toxic particles produced when organic materials are burned.
- Ammonia, hydrocyanic acid, acrolein: Other toxic substances that can damage the respiratory tract.
Health risks:
The inhalation of cannabis smoke poses considerable risks:
- Respiratory diseases: Chronic bronchitis, irritation of the mucous membranes, coughing and mucus production can be triggered by the toxic particles and gases.
- Carcinogenic potential: Studies indicate that cannabis smoke contains similar carcinogenic substances to tobacco smoke, but the link to lung cancer is not as clear as with tobacco. Nevertheless, a potential risk cannot be ruled out.
- Carbon monoxide exposure: The intake of carbon monoxide can lead to cardiovascular problems, especially with regular and intensive use.
- Inflammatory processes: The substances contained in smoke promote inflammatory reactions in the airways and can impair the immune system.
Comparison with other forms of consumption:
Compared to smoking, vaporizing cannabis (“vaping”) or taking it orally (edibles, tinctures) is associated with less harmful substances, as no combustion takes place and therefore fewer toxic by-products are produced.
Critical evaluation:
Although cannabis is increasingly being used for medical purposes and is being destigmatized by society, the inhalation of cannabis smoke remains problematic from a health perspective. Combustion produces numerous toxic and potentially carcinogenic substances that are harmful to the lungs and cardiovascular system. The perception of cannabis smoke as “harmless” or “natural” is strongly relativized by the chemical reality. Users should be aware of the risks and consider alternative forms of consumption.