When it comes to vaporizing cannabis products, whether dry herb or concentrated oils, technological advances allow us to control various temperature settings.
Temperature control is essential when consuming cannabis because it helps to activate sought-after chemical compounds, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, and encourages us to hone in on a desired experience.
To naturally activate THC, for example, the prevalent psychoactive ingredient consumers often gravitate toward in the cannabis plant, flower would need to reach a temperature of 157C/315F. On the other hand, to target CBD, a well-known non-intoxicating cannabinoid, a temperature of 180C/356F needs to be met. Using a household lighter to spark our bud, as we most often do, can produce a flame that will burn up to 1,000C/1,852F or more. Cannabis combustion, and the potential for harmful byproducts or poisonous toxins to be released, happen at 233C/451F, so if this threshold is surpassed, plant matter will start to burn, directly impacting the end flavour, aroma, and overall effect.
With this information, it is no surprise that the more health-conscious cannabis consumers who would like a controlled toke are investing their resources in a temperature-controlled vaporizer for a more effective and efficient form of inhalation.
Vaping temperatures are not a “one-size-fits-all” scenario since each temperature range will contribute to a different cannabinoid, terpene, and flavonoid expression as well as intensity, but because vaporizers allow a user to inhale cannabis at much lower overall temperatures than conventional smoking methods with a joint, bowl, or bong, one can preserve the therapeutic benefits and get the most out of a customized high.
Low Temperature
Vaporizers with temperature control often come with a variety of settings.
The lowest temperature option, usually 163-177C/325-350F, is a great starting point for consumers with a low tolerance or who are new to vaping cannabis and seeking a milder high as this temperature range targets THC activation. Because vapor inhaled is cooler than at alternative higher settings, the result is a less irritated throat and less potential for coughing, combined with more subdued effects.
Temperature: 163-177C/325-350F
Cannabinoids: Δ9THC
Terpenes: pinene, caryophyllene, myrcene
Medium Range
For those wanting to activate additional cannabinoid properties and more flavour from the inclusion of various terpenes, target a medium vaping temperature range of 177-205C/350-400F. At this universal spectrum, more terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids reach their activation point, or their boiling point (the temperature at which a liquid boils and turns into vapor), and contribute to a variety of new flavours and aromas, alongside intoxicating, psychoactive effects, should that be your goal. The more mature consumer searching for a warm, smooth high will enjoy experimenting at this temperature range, as it also offers a similar experience to traditional smoking.
Temperatures: 177-205C/350-400F
Cannabinoids: Δ9THC, CBD, CBN
Terpenes: limonene, eucalyptol, terpinolene, linalool
High Temperature
High vaping temperatures are reserved for the more seasoned cannabis patrons. The psychoactive potential of THC increases in the ranges of 205-221C/400-430F because THC volatilizes, contributing to a high becoming more intense. Vapor will be much hotter than at lower settings and less flavourful as terpenes become compromised from heat. If you do not mind a lack of taste or a hot vapor that may cause excessive coughing, but enjoy a potent output of psychoactive potential, then this could be the ideal temperature for you.
Temperature: 205-221C/400-430F
Cannabinoids: Δ9THC, THCv, CBC
Terpenes: citronellol, pulegone
In addition to knowing about the various temperature ranges to heat your vaporizer, it is also advantageous to know about dominant cannabinoids and terpenes present in this remarkable plant, together with their anticipated effects and boiling points. Learning which chemical compounds to activate and setting appropriate temperatures will lead to more inviting and enjoyable sensations.