Benefits of Smoking Herbs

Benefits of smoking herbs

They're veggies for the soul.

Benefits of smoking herbs

They're veggies for the soul.

But I thought smoking is unhealthy?

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, smoking is a health risk.

Well think about it, you’re burning leaves and inhaling them. It’s definitely not as safe as drinking water.

Smoking is typically thought of as the inhalation of burning cigarettes, which contain not only tobacco but hundreds of added chemicals and synthetics. While cigarette smoking is absolutely harmful to health, smoking other organic herbs can have some surprising benefits to health & vitality.

For example, did you know that low to moderate smoking of cannabis has been shown to lower cancer risk and improve overall lung capacity?

It’s true. A 2006 UCLA study found no increased risk of cancer in marijuana smokers. To the contrary, researchers actually found lower rates in light to moderate tokers compared to people who smoked neither.

And a 2012 UCLA study found smoking cannabis did not impair lung function. In fact, low to moderate use improves lung capacity.

These studies suggest two things. First, some researcher at UCLA has some really good kush. And more importantly, cannabis can actually help build healthy lungs — despite what your DARE Officer told you in 7th grade.

And cannabis is just one herb among many in Mother Earth’s wonderful Garden of medicinal plants.

You Can Smoke Other Herbs Too, Like…

Mullein

You see Mullein growing on the sides of highways and railroad tracks. This plant is so much more than a common weed. Mullein is one of the softest, most soothing herbs on Earth. The Mullein leaf has long been used as a medicine for the lungs. Some Native Americans used Mullein to help re-grow lung tissue. As a smoke, Mullein is gentle yet powerful.

Red Raspberry Leaf

There is a historical account that the first idea for cigarettes came from herbal cigarettes that were wrapped in red raspberry leaves, smoked by Native American women in ceremony. Raspberry leaves are high in flavonoids, vitamin A, C, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Raspberry leaf produces a strong, full-bodied smoke that makes it a perfect substitute for tobacco.

Peppermint

This plant is where menthol originates from. Peppermint improves blood circulation and relaxes the nerves. It is a strong purifying agent that can restore and rejuvenate both the mind and body. Fabled for its healing properties, Peppermint can also ensure easy breathing by clearing the lungs and respiratory passages. Refreshing with a little kick, the Peppermint leaf is a fine smoke by itself.

Mugwort

Also known as the Dream herb, because you will remember your dreams when you smoke it, Mugwort is an aromatic plant with a long history of medicinal and spiritual use. Mugwort pairs well with ganja and tobacco, giving a strong Earthy flavor and mellowing out the buzz.

Lobelia

Commonly known as Indian tobacco, Lobelia is very effective for quitting a cigarette habit, because it contains properties similar to real nicotine, without its addictive properties. In fact, Lobelia binds to the same receptors in the brain as nicotine does. Smokers can benefit by using cigarettes containing lobelia either rolled, smoked in a pipe or with a vaporizer.

Damiana

Damiana is a very flavorful desert herb that originates from South and Central America and is treasured as an aphrodisiac in many ancient traditions. It was reported that Mayans made a drink with damiana tea and sugar to enhance lovemaking. The fresh flowers have an almost intoxicating aroma. Smoking sex flowers? Yes please!

…and so many more.