Bong Smoke is a complex gas that makes you high. There is so much more to it than that though. Bong smoke is a complex array of chemicals and heavier substances like tar. The interesting part of it we will discuss is the cannabinoids.
So sit back and relax while we dive deep into the “bong smoke” topic, where we shall share facts opinions and some visual representations of the discussion.
Main Active Compounds
THC – (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol)
This is the reason so many people become addicted to this substance. The psychoactive effect. Causing many people joy, this compound also causes much pain. Raising anxiety levels, creating paranoia and with that comes the inability to make rational decisions.
On the other hand, the more common feeling you get is relaxation, euphoria and naturally is very good for rest.
CBD – (Cannabidiol)
Here is more of the true medical benefits when it comes to weed. This is an anti-inflammatory that works very well for humans and animals. Takes away pain and gives an incredible relaxing feeling as well. This is a schedule 0 drug and can be found in a lot of herbalist stores.
CBD also has incredible effect like its neuroprotective which is great for memory and seizures. CBD also is a anti stress and anxiety chemical and has the ability to help remove addiction from other products.
CBN, CBG, CBC
Other minor cannabinoids.
Combustion Byproducts & Chemicals in Bong Smoke
Now we get into the nasty nitty gritty part of the bong smoke.
Tar
you know the stuff that you cant clean off your bong, even with some of the strongest chemicals on each, yeah that’s tar. This sticky compound harms the lungs really bad. This is what causes long term irritation and irreversible damage.
Tar creates lack of oxygen to the brain, covers your lungs in black soot and gives you a nice hard hit feeling when you smoke a bong.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Another unbelievably dangerous chemical.
CO is particularly dangerous because it binds with hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) more easily than oxygen does. This results in less oxygen reaching vital organs like the brain, heart, and muscles.
When inhaled, carbon monoxide can:
- Displace oxygen in the blood, leading to hypoxia (low oxygen levels).
- Prevent proper oxygen distribution to tissues, leading to cell damage and reduced function of organs.
- Cause confusion, dizziness, and impaired judgment as it reduces oxygen levels in the brain.
Need I say more…
Benzene
A carcinogenic compound found in smoke.
Benzene is a highly volatile, colorless, and flammable liquid with a sweet odor. It’s a toxic chemical compound and is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C₆H₆. Benzene is naturally found in small amounts in petroleum, coal tar, and forest fires, but it is also produced synthetically for use in various industrial applications.
Although benzene is toxic and carcinogenic (cancer-causing), it has a wide range of uses in many everyday products due to its chemical properties. Benzene is also used for industrial purposes like paint thinners, plastics, rubbers and even degreasers. The humorous side to this is that its also used for medical purposes as well.
- Antihistamines
- Pain relievers
- Anti-cancer drugs
- Anesthetics
Unbelievable.
Others you will find as well in very small amounts:
- Formaldehyde & Acetaldehyde – Respiratory irritants.
- Ammonia – Can cause lung irritation.
- Hydrogen cyanide – Found in small amounts, affects oxygen delivery in the body.
How much tar is actually inside bong smoke
- Smoking cannabis without filtration results in about 30-50% tar content in the smoke. Hence your things like joints and pipes.
- A bong removes about 50% of the tar compared to a joint, but it also filters out some cannabinoids. This can be increased depending on the bong you have. The more percolation, the more filtered your bong smoke is going to be.
- Studies suggest that while bongs reduce larger particles, they may not significantly reduce toxic gases and smaller tar particles. This is a sad yet truthful fact which can come across to stoners as hard information to swallow.
- You can always consume your product rather than smoke it though, no tar involved.
Ways to Reduce Tar Intake
- Use a percolator bong – More filtration = less tar. There are so many bongs our there with multiple percolators on. For example, you can view these websites (Water-Bong-and-Glass-Pipes) or (GlassCity) or (SmokeCartel)
- Try vaporizing instead – No combustion, so no tar. This is an astounding new way to smoke and I’ve tried it many times myself and I’m honestly very impressed. There is not much smoke satisfaction, yet it’s very efficient in getting the job done. (the above links also have vaporizers)
- Use a carbon filter in the bong – Helps trap more toxins. These are good. I wouldn’t say amazing because it only really works with joints, although once used you can see how much your saving your lungs after you look at the filter.
- Eat Edibles – Rather make yourself or purchase someone like our Medibles where you can get what you need without so much damage to your body. As the Mandalorian would say “This is the way”. Get them here at 420Herbalist.
Conclusion
In summary, bong smoke is much more than just a way to get high. While it contains beneficial compounds like THC and CBD, it also contains harmful byproducts of combustion, such as tar, carbon monoxide, benzene, and formaldehyde, which can lead to long-term lung and organ damage. The tar content in bong smoke is reduced compared to joints, but it still presents a risk to the lungs and overall health.
Though percolator bongs and carbon filters can reduce tar intake, vaporizing is arguably the healthiest alternative, as it eliminates combustion altogether and removes tar and harmful chemicals from the equation.
Ultimately, while bong smoking may still offer a smoother hit than joints, the health risks associated with inhaling toxic byproducts remain a significant concern. If you’re serious about minimizing harm, exploring alternative consumption methods like vaping or edibles can be a much safer option for both your lungs and your long-term well-being.