What is the optimal temperature for vaporizing cannabis?
Disclaimer: All information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. The article concerns the vaporisation of cannabis with legally permitted levels of THC, in addition to medical cannabis. This article is in no way intended to entice, encourage or incite anyone to abuse any substance. This article is not suitable for persons under the age of 18.
Why is temperature important?
More than 150 cannabinoids, over 150 terpenes and more than 20 flavonoids have already been identified in the cannabis plant. These are active substances that are released when heated, some at lower temperatures of around 130 °C, others at temperatures of 200 °C or more. Lower temperatures give a better taste and aroma of the vaporised herbs, while higher temperatures weaken the aroma. Temperature also affects the intensity of the effects. Terpenes not only contribute to the aroma and flavour of cannabis but also have the potential to influence the effects of cannabinoids.
Evaporation temperatures of cannabinoids and terpenes
Different varieties of cannabis contain different amounts of cannabinoids and terpenes. The composition of these compounds in cannabis is influenced by the genetics of the variety, the growing conditions, the maturity of the plant and the processing method.
In order to set up a vaporizer correctly, it is important to know how the different active substances work and the boiling point at which they are released.
The table of temperatures of the most well-known cannabinoids and terpenes will help you do this:
| Cannabinoids | Boiling point | Terpenes | Boiling point |
| CBG | 52 °C | Beta-caryophyllene | 130 °C |
| THC | 157 °C | Beta-myrcene | 168 °C |
| CBD | 180 °C | Delta-3-carene | 168 °C |
| CBN | 185 °C | D-limonene | 177 °C |
| CBC | 220 °C | Linalool | 198 °C |
| THCV | 220 °C | Citronellol | 225 °C |
Low temperatures (130-180 °C)
Vaporisation at low temperatures can lead to a richer and more pleasant taste experience. The vapour is cooler and doesn't irritate the throat too much, so you probably won't cough. Should side effects such as red eyes and dry mouth occur, they will be less intense.
At lower temperatures, these effects are usually reported:
- mild euphoria
- calming
- invigoration
This is the ideal temperature range for vaporising CBD, a cannabinoid known for its therapeutic potential to relieve stress, pain or inflammation.
Lower temperatures are recommended for beginners or those who prefer a milder vapor and fuller flavor. The aroma can be spicy (beta-caryophyllene) or perhaps lemony (beta-myrcene, d-limonene).
Medium temperature (180-200 °C)
At a temperature of 180-200 °C, most cannabinoids such as THC, CBD and CBN are released efficiently. The vapour is thicker and warmer. This temperature range is often considered universal as it works for a wide range of cannabis strains.
You can smell:
- release
- euphoria
- sedative effects
- mild psychoactive effects
Medium temperatures offer balanced and pleasant effects, and can be a good choice if you are unsure of what temperature to choose.
High temperatures (200-220 °C)
At high temperatures, maximum extraction of cannabinoids occurs. The vapour is much hotter and less aromatic. The strongest psychoactive effects can be seen. The hot vapour can irritate the throat and cause coughing. Terpenes evaporate quickly.
At high temperatures, the following effects may occur:
- intense effects
- strong euphoria
- pain relief
- lethargy
A temperature of around 220 °C is recommended for strains with a high THCV content, which has a much higher boiling point than THC or CBD. THCV is a cannabinoid whose claimed effects include:
- improved concentration and productivity
- an increase in mental energy (no 'mental cloudiness')
- appetite suppression
Some research also suggests a possible therapeutic benefit in:
- Parkinson's disease
- inflammatory processes in the body
- obesity
- diabetes
- anxiety
- osteoporosis
Cannabichromene (CBC) is also released at 220 °C. This cannabinoid has many of the same effects as CBD, but the varieties currently grown contain so little of it that these effects may not be apparent.
High temperatures are for users who like thick clouds or are looking for strong effects.
Risks of high temperature vaporization
Vaporizing at too high a temperature risks degrading the active ingredients in the cannabis, affecting not only the potency but also the taste. At temperatures above 230 °C, combustion already occurs and you may inhale compounds that are harmful to your health. There is also a greater risk of respiratory irritation, which can lead to coughing.
Heating vaporizers
In addition to the temperature, the heating method also affects the vaping experience. There are three ways:
- Conduction heating - vaporizers use direct contact of the herb with a heat source, this is the traditional method of heating. Conduction vaporizers tend to be cheaper, take less time to heat up to a suitable temperature, and sufficient vapour is produced in the first inhalation.
- Convection heating - the herbs are heated by a stream of hot air in a separate chamber. Vaporizers allow for even heating, more efficient release of active ingredients and a stronger, more robust flavour.
- Hybrid - a vaporizer that combines a conduction and convection heating system
Each heating method has its own advantages and can affect flavour, vapour consistency and potency.
If you are unsure about choosing the right vaporizer for your purposes, contact a reliable dealer. You can also take inspiration from a guide focused on vaporizers. Reviews can also help you decide.
How to find the optimum temperature?
It is clear from the information in this article that there is no one optimum temperature for all users. If you want to avoid harmful substances, use a lower temperature range. However, also think about the effects you need to achieve and the boiling point of each cannabinoid and terpene and choose a temperature that suits you accordingly.
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