Vaping has quickly become a popular method for consuming cannabis, offering users a convenient, discreet, and efficient way to experience the effects of THC. However, for both beginners and experienced users alike, one common question remains: How many hits does it take to get high from a vape pen?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the potency of the vape cartridge, your tolerance level, and the type of vape pen you are using. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how many hits it takes to feel the effects of a vape pen and how to navigate the high effectively.
Key Factors That Affect How Many Hits It Takes to Get High
1. THC Potency of the Vape Pen
One of the primary factors in how quickly you’ll feel the effects from a vape pen is the THC potency in the vape cartridge. The higher the THC content, the stronger and faster the effects will be.
-
Low THC cartridges (around 50-60% THC) will typically require more hits to feel the effects, while high-potency cartridges (above 80% THC) may give you a strong high with just a few puffs.
-
Many vape pens use cannabis oil concentrates which can be highly potent, delivering faster and more intense effects compared to traditional dried flower.
Before using your vape pen, it’s a good idea to check the THC percentage on the cartridge packaging. If you’re new to vaping or have a low tolerance, start with a cartridge that has a moderate THC content to avoid overwhelming yourself with too much of a potent high.
2. Your Tolerance Level
Your THC tolerance plays a crucial role in how many hits it will take for you to get high. Regular cannabis users with higher tolerance levels may require more hits to achieve the desired effects. On the other hand, individuals with low or no tolerance may feel the effects after just one or two puffs.
-
Beginners: If you’re new to cannabis or haven’t vaped in a while, it’s essential to start with one to two small puffs and wait at least 15-20 minutes to assess how it affects you. It’s easy to overdo it, especially since vaping can produce immediate effects.
-
Experienced users: For those with higher tolerance, you may need more puffs to feel a substantial high. A stronger vape cartridge (with higher THC levels) may be needed for quicker effects.
3. The Type of Strain You’re Using
Cannabis strains vary in their effects, and this can influence how many hits you need to feel the effects. There are three main categories of cannabis strains: indica, sativa, and hybrid.
-
Indica strains: Typically produce relaxing, body-heavy effects, and may require fewer hits to feel the desired effect, especially for those seeking a calming experience.
-
Sativa strains: Known for their uplifting, euphoric effects. It might take more hits to achieve a noticeable high, particularly for individuals looking for a more cerebral or energetic experience.
-
Hybrid strains: Offer a mix of both indica and sativa effects, so the number of hits required will depend on the strain’s specific ratio.
The CBD-to-THC ratio in the vape cartridge can also influence how many hits you need. CBD tends to counterbalance the psychoactive effects of THC, making it less likely to feel “overly high,” even after several puffs.
4. Inhalation Technique: How Deep and Long You Inhale
The way you inhale can have a significant impact on how quickly you feel the effects of your vape pen. With vape pens, the vapor is often less dense than traditional smoke, so it can be harder to gauge how much you’re inhaling.
-
Long, deep inhales: When you take a deep inhale, more THC is absorbed into your bloodstream, resulting in a faster onset of effects.
-
Shorter puffs: If you take shorter, less intense puffs, it will take longer for the effects to build up. This can be a better approach for beginners, as it allows you to gauge how the vape affects you gradually.
If you’re new to vaping, it’s recommended to take smaller puffs, as the vapor can be harsh at first. Be mindful of how you feel and wait between puffs to avoid overconsumption.
5. The Temperature Setting of Your Vape Pen
Many vape pens allow you to adjust the temperature at which the cannabis oil is vaporized. The temperature affects the concentration of cannabinoids released during each puff, influencing how much THC you absorb.
-
Lower temperatures (around 330°F-370°F) tend to provide a more flavorful vapor with a gentler onset of effects. At lower temperatures, you may need more hits to feel high.
-
Higher temperatures (around 380°F-420°F) produce stronger vapor with a more intense concentration of THC, allowing you to feel the effects faster with fewer hits.
If you’re looking for faster results, increasing the temperature setting can provide quicker and more noticeable effects.
6. Body Weight and Metabolism
Just like with any other method of cannabis consumption, your body weight and metabolism will influence how many hits you need to feel high. Larger individuals with higher body fat percentages may experience the effects more slowly than smaller individuals due to differences in how THC is metabolized.
-
Individuals with higher metabolism may feel the effects more quickly and need fewer hits to reach the desired high.
-
Those with slower metabolism or larger body size may require more hits to feel the effects as the THC takes longer to be absorbed into the bloodstream.
It’s always a good idea to start slow and gradually increase your intake based on how your body responds.
How Many Hits Should You Take?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the general recommendation is to start with 1 to 2 puffs from your vape pen, especially if you’re new to vaping. Wait for 15-20 minutes to assess how it affects you. Vaping tends to provide faster onset effects compared to smoking, so patience is key.
For beginner users, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid overconsumption, which can lead to unwanted side effects like anxiety or dizziness. Experienced users might find that it takes more puffs to reach the desired high, especially if the THC content is lower or if they have developed a higher tolerance.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Vape Pen’s Effects
Vaping cannabis can be an enjoyable, convenient, and efficient way to experience the effects of THC. However, how many hits it takes to get high from a vape pen can vary greatly based on several factors, such as THC potency, tolerance, strain type, vaping technique, and even temperature settings.
Whether you’re a seasoned vaper or a first-timer, it’s important to start slow, listen to your body, and adjust based on how you feel. By understanding the factors that influence how many hits it takes to get high, you can navigate your vaping experience safely and effectively.