Why So Chokey? A Guide to Avoiding Harsh Hits

We’ve all been there. You sit down, ready to enjoy your favorite strain, expecting that smooth, chill session you’ve been looking forward to all day. But instead of melting into the good vibes, you’re hit with a coughing fit that feels like it’s never going to end. What happened? Whether you’re rolling a joint, hitting a vape, or dabbing some concentrate, there are plenty of reasons why your smoke might be a little rougher than you expected.

Let’s dig into what could be making your cannabis feel harsh and, more importantly, how you can make your experience smoother. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a better handle on what’s causing those chokey hits and some tips to help you avoid them.

Understanding the Basics: Why Cannabis Can Be Harsh

Cannabis is a pretty complex plant, packed with all sorts of interesting compounds—THC, CBD, terpenes, you name it. When you light up, you’re heating these compounds to release their effects, but that heat can also cause some irritation to your throat and lungs. A bit of coughing isn’t unusual, but if you’re hacking up a storm, something’s not quite right.

The Role of Curing: Fresh vs. Stale Cannabis

Ever smoked something that tasted off or left your throat feeling like sandpaper? The way cannabis is cured could be the culprit. Think of curing like aging a fine cheese—done right, it can enhance the flavors and make the smoke smoother. But if your bud wasn’t cured properly, it might be holding onto extra moisture or chlorophyll, making your smoke way harsher than it needs to be.

On the flip side, if your cannabis is too dry, it might be past its prime. Overly dry bud loses its essential oils, leaving you with a hot, harsh smoke that does nothing for your throat. Ideally, your cannabis should be slightly spongy to the touch, with a strong aroma that’s true to its strain. If it smells like cut grass or crumbles in your hand, it’s probably not going to give you the smooth experience you’re after.

Chemical Residues: A Hidden Danger

Let’s talk about something a little more serious—chemicals. If the cannabis you’re smoking wasn’t grown with care, it might contain traces of pesticides or fertilizers. These residues can make for a nasty, bitter smoke that’s tough on your lungs. This is especially concerning if you’re using cannabis for medical purposes, as the last thing you want is to inhale something harmful.

Stick to reputable sources that test their products for pesticides and other chemicals. If you ever taste something chemical or off, it’s a good sign you should toss that bud and find something cleaner.

The Impact of Smoking Techniques and Temperatures

How you smoke plays a big role in how smooth your hits are. If you’re smoking flower, the heat from your lighter can cause combustion, which can release irritants along with the good stuff. And if you’re vaping, the temperature matters even more. Crank up the heat too high, and you’re burning your oil instead of vaporizing it, which can lead to a harsh, uncomfortable hit.

Different compounds in cannabis vaporize at different temperatures. A lower temperature is often better to start with—around 315°F to 430°F (157°C to 221°C) tends to give you the best balance of flavor and smooth vapor.

The Quality of Your Equipment: Bongs, Pipes, and Vaporizers

Let’s not forget about your gear. A clean bong or pipe can make a huge difference in the smoothness of your smoke. If you’re using a dirty bong that hasn’t been cleaned in a while, all that residue is going to impact the flavor and feel of your hits. And with vapes, the quality of the device itself is key. Cheap vapes might not heat evenly, leading to inconsistent and often harsher hits.

Make it a habit to clean your smoking devices regularly and, if you’re vaping, invest in a quality device with good temperature control.

Contaminants: Dust, Mold, and Mildew

Sometimes, it’s not just the cannabis itself that’s causing the problem. Dust, mold, and mildew can all sneak into your bud, especially if it hasn’t been stored properly. Moldy cannabis is particularly dangerous—you definitely don’t want to be inhaling mold spores.

Always inspect your cannabis before you smoke it. If you see anything that looks like mold or smells off, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not smoke it.

Why Are Vapes and Dabs Harsh?

While vapes and dabs are becoming more popular, they can also lead to harsh experiences if you’re not careful. Vaping at too high a temperature or dabbing on a nail that’s too hot can burn your product, leading to a hit that feels like a punch to the lungs.

Start with a lower temperature and work your way up. For dabbing, let the nail cool a bit after heating to avoid scorching your concentrate.

The Role of Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles

Finally, the strain you’re smoking can also impact how harsh it feels. High-THC strains might cause more coughing, while those with higher CBD content might be a bit easier on the throat. The terpenes in your bud also play a role—some can make the smoke feel smoother, while others might be a little more irritating.

If you’re finding a particular strain too harsh, try something with a different cannabinoid or terpene profile. Sometimes a little experimenting can lead you to a strain that suits your lungs better.

Making Your Cannabis Experience Smoother

Enjoying cannabis is all about finding what works best for you. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just starting out, understanding why your cannabis might be harsh and how to smooth things out can make all the difference. Pay attention to the quality of your bud, how it’s been cured, the equipment you’re using, and your smoking or vaping techniques.

Don’t be afraid to try different strains, methods, and devices until you find what gives you the best experience. Remember, the key to a great cannabis session is a little patience, some knowledge, and a willingness to experiment. Happy smoking!