Written by Joshua Sosin

Have you ever wondered what really goes on when you light up?

When you burn cannabis, you're not just heating up some flower — you're sparking off a bunch of chemical reactions that change its flavor, potency, and overall vibe. Here’s a deep dive into the science of what happens when cannabis meets fire.

Looking for a nice, even burn? Click to add some high-quality Mood pre-rolls to your cart.

The Science Behind the Burn

Think of combustion as the process of breaking something down with heat and oxygen. When you light up, the tip of your joint or bowl can hit temperatures over 1000°F!

This intense heat breaks apart the cannabis compounds in the plant, turning them into smoke that you then inhale.

What Changes When Cannabis Burns?

Cannabinoid Activation: For instance, raw cannabis becomes more potent when heated. Similarly, CBDa converts into CBD. But if it gets too hot, even THC can degrade into CBN, which gives a more sedative feeling.

Terpene Transformation: Terpenes are the magic behind the aroma and flavor of your favorite strains. Unfortunately, many of these delicate compounds have low boiling points, so they start to evaporate or burn off early. That’s why you might notice a loss of those fruity or floral notes when you smoke.

Byproducts and Flavor Impact: The high heat also creates tar and other byproducts, leading to a harsher, smokier taste. The result is a flavor profile that’s a bit more earthy or even burnt compared to the fresh, vibrant taste of raw cannabis.

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Smoking vs. Other Methods

Smoking might be the classic way to enjoy cannabis, but it’s not the most efficient method. A lot of those precious cannabinoids and terpenes get lost in the burn. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Smoking: Fast-acting but high heat means some compounds go up in smoke.

• Vaporizing: Uses lower heat, preserving more of the cannabinoids and terpenes.

• Edibles: No heat at all, with cannabinoids absorbed through digestion.

If you’re after a more flavorful and efficient experience, using a disposable vape from the Mood Shop might be worth considering.

Are You Wasting Cannabinoids?

Unfortunately, yes — when you burn cannabis, some research indicates that more than 50% of the cannabinoids may never make it to your lungs. That’s a lot of potential effects just disappearing in the process.

Dealing With the Smoke

Another downside to combustion is that the smoke can be pretty harsh. The byproducts from the smoke can sometimes irritate your throat as it enters and bother friends or pets in your home.

Here are a few tips to ease the experience:

• Grind it up: Evenly ground cannabis burns more smoothly. Invest in a high-quality grinder and you'll be surprised by the difference it makes.

• Replace your lighter if it gives you issues: Using a hemp wick or a lighter with a softer flame can help.

• Take gentle puffs: Don’t hold your smoke in too long — this doesn’t boost absorption and only exposes you to more irritants, which can cause problems for everyone in the room.

• Choose your gear wisely: Glass or ceramic pipes can provide a cleaner taste than metal or plastic.

• Stay hydrated: Water helps soothe your throat when things get a bit rough.

Get the Perfect Even Burn With Mood Pre-Rolls

While burning cannabis is a tried-and-true way to enjoy it, it comes with a few trade-offs. The high temperatures can alter its cannabinoids and terpenes, change its flavor, and produce byproducts. If you want to get the most out of your flower, take every possible step towards ensuring an even burn.

The best place to start is with a quick and easy purchase of high-quality pre-rolls from Mood. These joints are expertly rolled with high-quality strains inside for an even burn and an unmatched experience.

Pick up pre-rolls from the Mood site today and remember to subscribe to save 15% on your order. Must be 21 years of age or older to order.