Combustion

Combustion refers to burning organic material, including cannabis flower, to release its compounds.

It converts THC and other cannabinoids into an inhalable form.

While traditional combustion alters cannabis properties and may pose health risks.

Alternative heating methods like vaporization better preserve the cannabis experience.

What is Combustion?

Combustion is a chemical process where oxygen rapidly reacts with an organic material, causing it to burn. This requires three elements – fuel, oxygen and heat.

In cannabis flower, the fuel source contains hundreds of chemical compounds like THC, CBD and terpenes. Applying a flame causes ignition, beginning combustion.

This burns away cannabis compounds and creates smoke to inhale.

Combustion converts solid marijuana into gaseous form through pyrolysis – the chemical decomposition of organic material by heat.

As combustion occurs, cannabinoids undergo decarboxylation, which activates their effects.

However, combustion also destroys many terpenes and produces tar and carbon monoxide. This can compromise flavor and potency compared to alternative heating methods.

Combustion vs. Vaporization

Vaporization has emerged as a healthier and more flavorful option compared to traditional combustion. Vaporizers heat cannabis flowers or extracts at lower temperatures below the point of combustion.

This gently converts cannabinoids into an inhalable vapor without burning the material. Vaporization avoids toxins from smoke and better preserves the strain’s cannabinoid and terpene profiles.

Users report more flavorful experiences and clearer-headed highs with vaporization.

However, combustion remains popular for its convenience and ritual. Some enjoy the signature flavor and experience of smoking weed in a joint, pipe or bong.

While combustion alters the properties of cannabis, many still find it provides the effects they seek.