In the last two decades, the U.S. has seen a dramatic reversal of public opinion about one contentious drug: marijuana. Today, over two-thirds of American adults favor the legalization of marijuana, thanks in part to its mild effects.
Whether you’re in the habit of smoking cannabis for recreational purposes or you’re curious about trying it for medical use, you may be wondering about the “smoking” aspect of this substance.
After all, we all know that cigarettes are terrible for your health. What’s keeping cannabis from acting in the same negative way?
If you’re on the fence about this smoking habit, here’s what you should know about the health benefits of marijuana over cigarettes.
Is Smoking Cannabis Better Than Smoking Cigarettes?
First things first: is smoking cannabis less damaging to your health than a cigarette?
If you’ve spent any time researching the smoking industry, you already know that smoking cigarettes increases your risk for things like lung cancer, heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. It can also degrade your overall lung function over time.
In contrast to the carcinogens in the average cigarette, the best marijuana strains include much more natural compounds. While researchers are still studying the health effects of marijuana, including its long-term effects on the lungs, there are many encouraging signs that marijuana smoke is nowhere near as harmful as the smoke from a cigarette.
Unlike cigarette smoke, marijuana smokers do not see an increased risk of lung cancer. In addition, one 2012 study from the Journal of American Medical Association found that smoking cannabis may increase your air flow rate and lung volume—at least in moderate smokers. That said, smoking marijuana can lead to respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis, leading to chronic coughing and wheezing.
What Are the Other Health Benefits of Smoking Cannabis?
It’s clear that the effects of cannabis are far milder than those of the average cigarette—but are there other reasons to turn to marijuana instead of tobacco?
Most types of marijuana strains, including those from popular brands like HarvestHOC.com, offer many extra health benefits to the recreational smoker.
First, the cannabinoids in marijuana can help with pain management and inflammation. This makes cannabis a great choice for anyone suffering from chronic pain conditions ranging from migraines to arthritis.
In addition, the relaxing effects of cannabis can help with certain mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. This relaxation is also useful for treating sleep conditions like insomnia.
Opt for a Healthier Smoke
If you’re deliberating between smoking cannabis or a cigarette, the facts above make the winner pretty clear. Cannabis offers much milder negative effects than the average cigarette, and it provides a number of helpful medical benefits to boot. Whether you’re looking for a recreational habit or a medical boon, check for the best marijuana strains in your area to get one for your needs!
Looking for more quick tips like these? Be sure to take a look at our other health and medical guides for additional insights.