THC Vape Cartridges vs E-Cigarettes: What’s the Difference and Why Our Officials Need to Pay Attention

In response to the mysterious respiratory condition that has recently spread across multiple states and resulted in six deaths so far, Donald Trump has indicated that he might take steps toward banning flavored vaping products from the market. However, this statement shows little understanding of the actual cause of the problem. Trump seems to be targeting Juul brand e-cigarettes with his ban, and while there is some concern that Juul’s fruit-flavored cartridges appeal to underage vapers, the fact of the matter is that the bulk of the people affected by the “vaping disease” have been users of knockoff THC cartridges.

Does Trump not know this? And if not, how will it affect his ability to address the issue in a way that makes a difference?

Why Vape?

Given the risks that are becoming apparent, why would anyone choose to vape in the first place? Why not simply abandon the practice? The answer is that vaping is almost certainly better for you. Even with the concerns that are now being raised over the safety of vaping, physicians agree that the process of vaping exposes users to fewer toxic chemicals than smoking. When choosing between the two, many consumers of cannabis prefer to stick with vaping.

If neither option is right for you, there are other, even lower-risk methods of incorporating cannabis into your routine. But every method affects the user a bit differently. If you’re in search of the quickest possible head-high, vaping or smoking are the two most appropriate options.

Where is the Disease Coming From?

It’s important to know that the majority of the illnesses and deaths related to vaping have come from black market products—and there’s a reason for that. Distributors of black market vaping cartridges will often fill their product with unnecessary chemicals in order to increase the quantity and maximize profits. Since there is often little to no regulation when it comes to THC cartridges, illicit suppliers can replicate the packaging of well-known brands, causing users to think they are getting a clean product when in fact they are not.

How to Keep Vaping Safe

There are several steps you can take to ensure that your vaping is as safe as possible. First, it’s always a good idea to acquire a medical marijuana card if you are able to do so. Even if recreational marijuana is legal where you live, going through medical channels remains the safest way to get a good product. That’s because medical-grade cannabis is the most regulated stuff on the market. If you’re able to get access to vape cartridges this way, you’re definitely taking the safest possible route.

If you aren’t able to get a medical marijuana card, you should inform yourself about the products you buy. Learn how to tell the bootleg versions from the real thing. Vape cartridge manufacturers can help you learn how to differentiate their products from fakes. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other lung complaints, discontinue the use of your vape immediately and consult with your doctor.

What Do Policymakers Need to Know?

In order to legislate effectively on vaping, policymakers like Donald Trump need to understand that there is a difference between legitimate producers who offer transparency when it comes to what goes into their cartridges and black-market alternatives. More government oversight when it comes to vaping products would help users buy with confidence and know that they’re getting something safe. A blanket ban on legally sold vape products, such as Juul cartridges or THC cartridges, will only make the use of unsafe products spread.