A key advantage of portable vaporizers is that they allow the user to control the temperature at which their herb atomizes (i.e., turns into vapor via heat). But the question is: what temperature should you be setting your vaporizer in the first place? The answer differs, depending on what you want out of the experience.
For flavor and mental medication (or to enhance your mood), low temperatures between 320°F to 356°F will do the trick. For a more euphoric and energetic high, as well as bodily effects, mid-temperatures between 356°F and 392°F are ideal. For maximum psychotropic effects that take you to a deep state of bodily and mental relaxation, you’ll need high temperatures above 392°F.
Why Is The Temperature Of My Vaporizer Important?
Though marijuana is often thought to be comprised of simply THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), the cannabis plant contains lots more than that:
- More than 110 cannabinoids are responsible for the medical effects of marijuana
- Over 120 terpenes, which compounds that give the plant its flavor and aroma
- At least 20 flavonoids give additional medical benefits
When combined, these three compounds produce the distinct potency, smell, and flavor of different strains of marijuana.
To activate the compounds in cannabis, it must be heated to a certain temperature since each cannabinoid, terpene, and flavonoid has its own boiling point.
So, you must heat the vaporizer, and consequently the herb, to the right temperature to achieve your desired effect, whether you just want a mild high or an out-of-this-world experience.
What Are The Different Temperatures I Should Set My Vaporizer To?
Generally, low temperatures activate compounds that affect your mind, while high temperatures activate compounds that affect your body. Frequent cannabis vapers often find a soft spot at mid-temperatures, but it depends on what you want out of your vaping session.
Low Temperature: 320°F (160°C) to 356°F (180°C)
A low temperature will produce a high ratio of cannabinoids that will affect your consciousness, particularly the psychoactive THC compound. The speed of extraction will also be weak, so your vapor won’t pack as much of a punch.
Side effects will also be less severe. You’ll only get a light mental high, which is ideal for newbie cannabis vapers, lightweights, or those who still have things to do in the day.
This temperature is also a great range for flavor. You’ll be able to taste the herb, especially from terpenes that give it a fresh taste, without being harsh.
Mid-Temperature: 356°F (180°C) to 392°F (200°C)
At mid-temperature, you’ll get a more balanced ratio of cannabinoids, so you’ll be able to feel the effects in both your mind and body, with the bodily effects being more apparent.
This temperature range also produces a thicker vapor, which lets you experience a richer aroma and flavor from the activated terpenes.
This is a good middle ground for those who want to experience the psychoactive effects of cannabis in full, without being left completely knackered.
High Temperature: 392°F (200°C) to 446°F (230°C) and up
A high temperature activates more compounds in the herb and produces a stronger vapor. This allows you to feel a more intense level of psychotropic effects.
Vaping at this temperature can knock you out, so it’s best to do it at night.
At this range, the flavors from the terpenes will have likely deteriorated, leaving a slightly harsh taste in the mouth.
What’s The Best Temperature To Vape Cannabis?
As the adjustable temperatures of dry herb vaporizers indicate, there’s no single correct temperature to vape cannabis. You can customize the experience each time with a fully charged vape, even working with different temperatures at once (e.g., starting with a low temperature then adjusting to a high temperature towards the end of your session). The best temperature is the one that works for you.