Weed smoking has been around for centuries, and continues to be one of the most popular ways to consume the plant. But as cannabis becomes increasingly popular and normalized, so does asking questions about it. 

And one of the most common questions from newer, inexperienced consumers is: can you smoke weed stems?

Short answer – no, you cannot smoke weed stems.

But you can do other things with them!

What are Weed Stems?

Weed stems are the long, woody stalks of the cannabis plant. The larger stems or stalks are usually discarded by growers after the flower buds, or nugs, have been harvested. 

Consumers will find smaller stems when breaking up cannabis flower for smoking, vaping, or cooking.

Typically dry and brittle, weed stems tend to have an incredibly low amount of psychoactive cannabinoids, rendering them almost pointless to consumers.

Weed stems are often overlooked or discarded because they are not as potent or useful as the buds of the plant.

Smoking weed stems is never advisable, and with only trace amounts of THC, it’s not worth the risk. 

However, don’t throw those stems out. There are other things you can do with them.

What Happens If You Smoke Weed Stems?

Although you might experience a slight buzz after smoking weed stems, this will be marginalized by harsh feelings in your throat and lungs, followed by an immediate fit of uncontrollable coughing.

It’s not clear if there are any serious health effects that may arise from smoking your stems, and again it’s not worth the risk. The cons seriously outweigh any pros.

Simply put, weed stems were never intended to be smoked, so don’t do it.

Alternatives to Smoking Weed Stems

People have experienced a high from weed stems, however this is best achieved not by smoking or vaping but rather making your very own weed stem tea.

People have also made topicals, cannabutter, and even weed stem paper!

Here’s a full list of things you can do with weed stems.

The stems from your weed stash are worth saving, just don’t smoke them, no matter how tempted you might be.

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