Click here
Culture Deals Featured Sponsored Content Vapes

CBD Vaping 101: Everything You Need To Know Right Here

cbd vaping
Written by Steven Bridge

Vaping E-Liquid was invented around a decade ago as an alternative to smoking tobacco. Since then, there have been some remarkable, cutting-edge advances when it comes to vaping, and CBD Vape Juice is one such innovation.

CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of many compounds inside cannabis and hemp. Unlike its big brother, THC – short for tetrahydrocannabinol – CBD doesn’t get you high or stoned, nor does it leave you feeling disoriented. However, many people who use CBD find it relaxes them and leaves them in a good frame of mind – relaxed but clearheaded.

CBD is used around the world by people seeking relief from a range of ailments, such as insomnia, chronic pain, nausea, anxiety, and depression. CBD also rose to fame a few years ago in the case of Charlotte Figi, a little girl suffering from Dravet Syndrome; a rare form of epilepsy. Charlotte was able to reduce her seizures and improve her quality of life significantly by using CBD, where most of her prescription medications failed her.

We’re taking an in-depth look at the phenomenon of vaping CBD, with easy-to-read, simple explanations on a variety of different aspects. Let’s start by understanding a little bit more about CBD and how it’s possible to vaporize it.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for Cannabidiol, is a compound inside cannabis and hemp. As previously mentioned, CBD doesn’t get you high like THC, and it’s the second most prominent cannabinoid in the plants. It needs to be noted that not all CBD is equal, and that depends on whether it comes from cannabis or hemp.

CBD has many medicinal benefits

CBD that comes from conventional cannabis plants often includes some THC and is what you’d typically find at a cannabis dispensary in places where it’s legal. CBD that comes from hemp is classified as containing no more than trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%) and is used for industrial purposes as well as for CBD topicals like creams and other CBD products.

There are also different types of CBD in terms of the way it’s processed and sold, so let’s get familiar with the different terms.

  • Broad Spectrum – CBD extract which also contains terpenes and other minor cannabinoids (not including THC)
  • Full Spectrum – CBD extract which also contains terpenes and cannabinoids (including THC sometimes higher than 0.3%)
  • Isolate – CBD extract, which is totally pure, 100% CBD with no other cannabinoids or terpenes added

There are also different ways to vaporize CBD, and this needs to be understood before you buy or try.

  • CBD Vape Juice – Also called CBD E-Liquid, this is CBD extract (either full spectrum or not) mixed with a carrier liquid such as Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), Multi Chain Triglycerides (MCT), and even pure hemp extract with the waxes removed. CBD Vape Juice comes in natural CBD flavor and other flavors like mint, cotton candy, and watermelon, for a broad market of consumers with different tastes.
  • CBD Flowers – Also called Hemp Flowers or CBD Buds, these are specially cultivated CBD strains which contain little-to-no THC. They look and smell much like regular cannabis but don’t get you high due to there being no THC in the mix. CBD Flowers can be smoked or vaporized in a dry herb vaporizer, specially built for that purpose.

How CBD Works

CBD, like other cannabinoids and natural compounds, works by attaching to various receptors throughout the body. When it comes to CBD specifically, the human body has something called CB1 and CB2 receptors. These make up part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

cbd vaping

The Endocannabinoid System has receptors throughout the whole body

CB1 receptors are mainly concentrated in the brain while CB2 receptors are found primarily on white blood cells, making up part of the immune system. We naturally create cannabinoids which bond to these receptors to regulate different processes in our bodies and maintain homeostasis.

The ECS helps manage things such as immune function, appetite, sleep wake cycles, pain response, and so forth. As such, when we are ‘cannabinoid deficient’ our bodies become destabilized and no longer function optimally. In this situation, supplementing with plant-based cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) can be beneficial.

CBD Vape Juice

Now we have the technical part out of the way, let’s take a closer look at CBD Vape Juice specifically. We also want to educate ourselves about any potential red flags that may exist when it comes to buying this relatively new “wellness” product.

Vaping, whether E-cigarettes with nicotine or CBD, falls between a rock and a hard place as far as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) are concerned. On the other hand, although the long-term effects of vaping are unclear (as it was invented only around a decade ago), it is considered to be far safer than smoking.

When you combust any plant material directly into the lungs by smoking a joint, pipe or bong, the respiratory system is traumatized. That’s why many people cough and splutter when smoking cannabis, CBD flowers, or cigarettes. There are also various carcinogens that are released through combustion, and that’s not to mention the tar that is inhaled and the dirty ashtrays that are left behind.

That’s precisely the reason why so many people wanting to give up smoking cigarettes have done so successfully with vaping. Vaping also appears to be the best smoking cessation device to date as droves of people around the world kick the tobacco in favor of it. CBD E-Liquid uses the same principle and even the same carrier liquids. With that said, CBD Vape Juice contains no nicotine or additional ingredients other than CBD extract, carrier liquids, and in some cases, flavorings. But what are the differences between these carrier liquids known as PG, VG, and MCT?

  • PG (Propylene glycol) – PG is used in food and things like inhalers, toothpaste, and even in vanilla extracts. PG is flavorless and odorless and makes the perfect carrier liquid for CBD due to its boiling point and consistency. However, as PG is allergenic, some people are sensitive to it.
  • VG (Vegetable glycerin) – VG is often mixed in equal quantity in vape juice, or at a ratio of 70:30 (PG/VG). VG is used to thicken food items and is also found inside cough syrup and gum. Those with an allergy to PG will opt for VG-based vape juices only. VG is also thicker than PG and is mild on the throat. It’s also the ingredient that vaporizes the best and produces those thick, billowing vapor clouds.
  • MCT (Medium chain triglycerides) – MCT is commonly known as coconut oil, but it can be produced from palm oil too. It is both odorless and colorless and is considered to be safe and even healthy by some. Vape Juice manufacturers are increasingly using MCT in their formulas for several reasons. MCT’s improve glucose levels in Type II Diabetes and also help to control appetite and are used by those wanting to lose weight.

For beginners or those just wanting to vape CBD without all the details, the take-home point is relatively simple. While it’s true that the long term effects of vaping CBD – whether inside PG, VG or MCT – are unknown, vaping appears to be relatively safe, and it’s certainly a great way to get the perfect dose of CBD into your system. The other great thing about vaping CBD is that the effects are felt potently and immediately by most people. That’s due to the delivery method for the natural compound being via the lungs and not through the stomach.

Vaping CBD Vs. CBD Edibles

While CBD Vape Juice and CBD Edibles contain the same active ingredients, they are quite different in terms of usage and effect. This is down to what we touched upon in the previous section when it comes to taking CBD via the lungs or stomach. When CBD is taken through the lungs, the effects are felt immediately or within a couple of minutes. These effects will usually peak within ten minutes and last for a while, getting weaker as time goes by.

cbd vaping

Vaping CBD is vastly different than consuming it via edible

When you eat CBD via the stomach – in CBD Gummies, CBD Cupcakes or even CBD Oil – it takes a long time for the active compounds to take effect (up to three hours). That’s down to the long and treacherous passage they need to take through the digestive system. However, it also depends on the condition you are treating whether you opt for CBD Vape Juice or a CBD edible.

  • CBD Vape Juice – Due to entry into the bloodstream via the lungs, those wanting to control their CBD dosing carefully may opt for vaping. The immediate effects are also significant for those suffering from anxiety or other issues such as panic attacks.
  • CBD Edibles – Edibles are generally preferred either by people who never smoked or those who aren’t attracted to the prospect of vaping. Then again, edibles are an excellent choice for those needing gradual and long-lasting effects from CBD and are used successfully by many for pain and insomnia.

Chronic pain users will often opt for CBD edibles as they can work for many hours to relieve the pain or inflammation. As mentioned, those suffering from panic attacks or anxiety will likely prefer the immediate feeling of relief that comes from vaping.

Refillable Vs. Disposable CBD Vape Pens

When it comes to purchasing that CBD vape pen, there are several options to choose from. Let’s take a quick look at the different options available when it comes to vaping CBD in E-liquid.

  • Disposable Vape Pens – These are the usually the cheapest option, at least in the short-term, and are also great for those just wanting to try a CBD Vape for the first time but without a significant investment. Disposable CBD Vape Pens include a sealed cartridge with the CBD inside, a battery and an atomizer (the coil that heats the liquid to turn it into vapor). You’ll usually enjoy a few hundred puffs from such a device. However, most disposable CBD vape options are muted when it comes to the potency of the effects.
  • Refillable Vape Pens – For those wanting to get into CBD vaping more seriously, refillable vape pens are a perfect choice. The tank with the atomizer inside either sits on top of a battery (referred to as a MOD) or is built-in. The advantage with a refillable system is that you can reuse it time and time again. You can also choose precisely how much CBD concentration or flavoring goes inside your tank for a superior, tailor-made CBD vaping experience.
  • Pod Vaping Systems – There are two options when it comes to the Pod Vaping systems, closed pods and open pods. Closed pods contain a small cartridge that’s already pre-filled with vape juice. It’s extremely convenient but very limiting as you can only buy pre-made mixes from the same manufacturer. Open pod systems consist of a pod mod and a pod cartridge that’s refillable, allowing for more customization.

In short, if you are brand new to the world of vaping CBD, it’s probably advisable to purchase a disposable CBD Vape Pen to see if you enjoy the experience. If you’re already a fan of vaping CBD and have some experience with it, might as well branch out a little and buy your first refillable tank or reusable pod system for that ultimate CBD vaping experience.

Product Recommendations

  1. The Phenopen Premium Vape Kit – This one tops our list and is definitely one of the best – if not the best – CBD Vape Pen of the year. It has a sleek and sturdy design and it’s very user friendly as there are no parts or pieces to assemble – just the battery where you hold the device and an almost invisible, built-in, replaceable cartridge inside.The Phenopen experience blew other vape pens out of the water and that’s because of two main components: The first being the specially designed battery and coil which heat the CBD to optimum temperature’ and the second is the CBD inside.

    Unlike most other CBD Vape Pen and E-liquid manufacturers who use carrier liquids for their CBD such as PG, VG or MCT Oil, the Phenopen contains 100% hemp extract with cannabinoids and terpenes reintroduced during processing

  2. Secret Nature’s CBD Vape Pen – With a replaceable cartridge design, Secret Nature’s CBD Vape Pens are both convenient and easy to use on the go. The quality of the vapor in this range, which includes five different CBD strains, is exemplary. The clouds are tasty and the effects are felt immediately.

    The Secret Nature CBD Vape Pen range comes in five options – two Sativa strains for a daytime or more uplifting experience. Two Indicas, for nighttime and sedative effects. And one Hybrid for a perfect mix of the two.

    The whole Secret Nature CBD Vape Pen range contains completely organic, full-spectrum CBD. Real cannabis terpene profiles are reintroduced into the CBD liquid, all sourced from boutique cannabis cultivators in the state of California.

CBD Vape Pens & E-Juice – Buyer Beware

cbd vaping

A few warnings before you get started vaping CBD

We hope we got your attention with the above heading as it’s time to listen up. While there’s little cause for alarm as CBD is non-toxic, non-addictive and considered overall to be safe, there are some things you need to look out for when purchasing CBD Vape Pens or E-Liquids. Here are a few things to be mindful of.

  • Battery Safety – Unless you buy a faulty battery for your vape pen or get very unlucky, this is not too much of a cause for concern. However, vape pens, on rare occasions, have been known to overheat and even explode. Therefore, it’s vital you do your homework and purchase a vaping device that is safe and includes a regulated battery. It also needs to conform to various global safety standards applied to devices that contain batteries.
  • Ingredients – You don’t need to be an expert; you just need to do some due diligence and read the label. CBD Vape Juice should contain CBD Extract (in one form or another), PG, VG, MCT or a mixture of them, flavorings and possibly sweeteners. CBD Vape Juice should not contain extra chemicals, additives or solvents and if they do, it’s advisable to steer clear.
  • Third-Party Lab Results – When it comes to buying CBD Vape Juice, the number thing to check is third-party lab results. Any company producing CBD Vape who are worth their salt will certainly have their products tested, in-depth, by specialized laboratories who are impartial. The test results are almost always published on the product page of the item you’re buying online or are kept under the counter at vape stores. The very best CBD E-Liquid manufacturers will also carry out lab testing on a batch-by-batch basis.

Final Thoughts…

If you reached the “Final Thoughts” section at the end of this CBD Vaping 101, you are now well-educated about many essential aspects of CBD E-Liquid. All that remains now is for you to make your choice and purchase the right product for you.

If we can made a suggestion, the PhenoPen Premium CBD Vaping Kit is one of the best on the market and will definitely offer the results you’re looking for.

As well as checking lab results and battery safety, it’s also strongly recommended that you search for and read online reviews from verified buyers who have already sampled the product or products you’re interested in. Many people take the time to write candid, honest reviews of the products they buy, leaving a lot of the guesswork out of the equation for you.

If you have any questions about vaping CBD or CBD E-Liquids, please feel free to ask them in the comments feed at the bottom of this article, and we’ll get back to you just as soon as possible. For now, happy vaping!

Have anything to add? Your voice matters! Join the conversation and contribute your insights and ideas below.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

About the author

Steven Bridge

Having been a cannabis and CBD aficionado for many years, Steven spends much of his time opposite a shiny MacBook, researching, exploring, understanding and creating interesting reading for people interested in knowing more about CBD, Vaping, Cannabis Strains and Delivery Methods, and just about anything related to magical green herbs that help people with anything from sleepless nights to pain.