Smoking weed out of a bong is a time-honored ritual cherished by many cannabis enthusiasts. The glass, water, and familiar bubbling sound create an experience that's both enjoyable and efficient. However, for some, that telltale cough that follows a bong hit can put a damper on the experience. Fear not, for we're here to guide you through the steps to avoid coughing while savoring your favorite strains through a bong.
Choose the Right Bong and Accessories
The first step in achieving a smooth bong hit is to ensure you're using the right equipment. Opt for a bong with a design that suits your lung capacity and smoking style. A bong with percolators or diffusers can help cool and filter the smoke, making it less harsh on your throat. Additionally, using an ice catcher or placing ice cubes in the bong's neck can provide a soothing effect.
When it comes to choosing a bong, the possibilities are virtually limitless. Bongs come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each offering unique benefits. Consider the following factors:
-Size: Larger bongs typically offer smoother hits due to increased cooling and filtration. However, they might not be as portable or discreet as smaller options.
-Material: Glass is a popular choice due to its clean taste and aesthetic appeal. Acrylic bongs are more durable and less likely to break, making them suitable for on-the-go use.
-Percolators and Diffusers: These accessories enhance the bong's filtration and cooling capabilities by breaking up smoke into smaller bubbles, resulting in a smoother inhale!
-Ice Catchers: These features allow you to add ice cubes to the neck of the bong, cooling the smoke before it reaches your lungs and creating an even smoother hit.
The downstem and bowl are integral components of your bong that directly impact the quality of your hits. A downstem with a diffuser can further filter and cool the smoke, while a well-designed bowl provides proper airflow and efficient burning of your herb. Invest in high-quality downstems and bowls to ensure a consistent and enjoyable smoking experience!
Beyond the core components of a bong, there are accessories that can enhance its performance and your overall experience:
-Ash Catchers: These attachments prevent ash and debris from entering your bong, keeping it cleaner and reducing the likelihood of harsh hits.
-Carbon Filters: These filters can help remove impurities and cool the smoke before it enters the bong, contributing to a smoother draw.
-Splash Guards: Splash guards prevent water from reaching your mouth, ensuring a comfortable and mess-free smoking experience!
Grind Your Herb to Perfection
Properly grinding your cannabis can have a significant impact on the quality of your bong hits. Finely ground herb creates a more even burn and allows for better airflow. The finer the grind, the more efficiently the cannabinoids and terpenes are released, resulting in smoother inhalations. Check out our blog on Herb Grinders to help you decide which grinder suits you and your personal smoking experience!
Mindful Lighting Technique
The way you light your herb can influence the intensity of your hit. Hold the flame slightly above the bowl as you inhale, allowing the heat to gently draw the smoke into the bong's chamber. This technique minimizes the chances of burning the herb too quickly, which can lead to harsh, hot smoke and subsequent coughing.
1.Prepare Your Bowl: Before lighting, ensure your bowl is properly packed with ground herb. A finely ground consistency promotes even burning.
2.Choose the Right Flame: Opt for a soft flame source, such as a hemp wick or a candle lighter. Avoid using a strong, direct flame like a torch lighter, as it can cause the herb to burn too quickly.
3.Hold the Flame Above the Bowl: Position the flame slightly above the bowl as you inhale. This allows the heat to gently draw the smoke into the bong's chamber rather than creating an intense direct flame.
4.Inhale Slowly and Steadily: As you hold the flame above the bowl, initiate a slow and steady inhale. The gentle heat will ignite the herb gradually, releasing a smoother stream of smoke.
5.Rotate the Bowl: While inhaling, consider rotating the bowl slightly to ensure even burning. This prevents one side of the bowl from burning faster than the other, leading to a more consistent hit.
6.Remove the Flame: Once the cannabis is evenly lit, remove the flame while continuing to inhale. This prevents any excess heat from scorching the remaining herb.
7. Controlled Exhale: After inhaling, exhale slowly and steadily to prevent harsh coughing.
Controlled Inhalation
Mastering the art of controlled inhalation is key to avoiding that dreaded cough. Take slow, steady breaths as you draw the smoke into the chamber. This prevents you from inhaling too much smoke at once, reducing the urge to cough. Keep in mind that it's not a race—the slower and steadier you inhale, the smoother the hit. We put it in easy steps so you can practice this method!
1.Prepare Your Inhalation: Whether you're using a joint, a pipe, a bong, or a vaporizer, ensure your cannabis is properly lit and ready for inhalation.
2.Start with a Deep Breath: Before taking your hit, start with a deep inhalation of fresh air. This helps expand your lung capacity and prepares your respiratory system for the upcoming smoke or vapor.
3.Begin Slowly: As you bring the smoke or vapor to your lips, initiate a gentle, slow inhale. Imagine sipping through a straw rather than taking a deep gulp.
4.Control the Pace: Continue your slow inhale, focusing on maintaining a consistent and controlled pace. Avoid the temptation to rush or forcefully inhale, as this can lead to irritation.
5.Monitor Your Lungs: Pay attention to your lung capacity and how much smoke or vapor you're taking in. Aim to fill your lungs to a comfortable level without overdoing it.
6.Hold Briefly: Once your lungs are comfortably filled, briefly hold the smoke or vapor for a moment. This allows your lungs to absorb the cannabinoids before exhaling.
7.Exhale Slowly: When you're ready to exhale, do so slowly and steadily. This can prevent the harsh coughing that often results from quick, forceful exhales.
Like any skill, controlled inhalation takes practice to master. It's worth experimenting with different techniques and devices to find what works best for you. Whether you're a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or new to the experience, taking the time to learn controlled inhalation can elevate your consumption journey and help you fully appreciate the wonders of the cannabis plant. Remember, it's not a race—savor each inhalation and let the experience unfold at your own pace!
Use Warm Water
Experimenting with the temperature of the water in your bong can have a big impact on the smoothness of your hits. Warm water can help soothe the throat and reduce irritation, making the inhalation process gentler. However, be cautious not to use water that's too hot, as it can also create discomfort. This is a method that has personally helped me to avoid that dreaded post-smoke cough. Having a cup of warm water or tea around for right after you smoke has also been such a lifesaver! You'd be surprised with how much it helps in that moment leading up to a cough.
Consider Your Strain Choice
Different strains have varying levels of potency and harshness. Sativa-dominant strains, for example, can sometimes be more uplifting and less harsh on the throat. Experiment with strains that are known for their smooth smoke to find the ones that work best for you. This can vary a lot depending on where you get your weed from and the strain isn't always necessarily a factor but it's worth it to note if a certain one is less harsh for you!
With the right equipment, technique, and mindful approach, you can enjoy smooth, satisfying hits without the irritation. Remember that everyone's tolerance and preferences are unique, so take the time to explore and find the methods that suit you best. With practice, you'll soon be savoring your favorite strains through a bong with ease and enjoyment!
