A lot of people, particularly if they’re new to cannabis, ask the question, "Does a paper weed joint make you high?” and wonder what actually causes the high, whether it is the paper or what is contained within the paper.
Well, the simple truth is it is not the paper. The paper is there just to hold everything inside it so it can be smoked. The “high” is caused by what's inside the cannabis flower.
Does Paper Weed Joint Make You High?
A paper weed joint may make a person feel high, but this is because of the weed and not the paper. When a person uses a weed joint by burning it, the cannabis flower contains other substances, such as THC, which is widely considered the main compound responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis
It’s important to understand that rolling paper has no role in creating this “high.” Whether it’s made from rice, hemp, or wood pulp, the paper simply holds the cannabis together and allows it to burn evenly. It does not contain THC or CBD, so smoking paper alone would not cause any intoxication.
Joints are one of the most common ways people choose to use cannabis because they are easy to use and convenient. When a joint is burned, the natural compounds in the cannabis change to a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Some research suggests that inhalation allows these compounds to enter the bloodstream quickly through the lungs.
This is the main reason why the effects of a joint are felt after a matter of minutes. The substances enter the bloodstream and then reach the brain, where the individual’s mood and coordination may begin to change. However, the experience may differ in a number of ways.
In short, the joint itself doesn’t make you high; the cannabis inside it does.
Do Herbal Blends Joints Make You High?
The use of herbal blend joints is also an alternative for people who want to use a substitute for cannabis. For most people, it is unlikely that the use of herbal blend joints will get you “high” because they do not contain THC, which is the major component of the cannabis plant. Without THC, the “high” is not felt.
These blends are a mixture of a variety of herbs, each having unique properties. Some people prefer to use a ready mix of herbs, such as those available at smoothmix, to make it easier to prepare a balanced blend.
- Damiana sometimes used for its mild, relaxing properties
- Lavender (Lavandula) known for its calming properties, with studies showing its potential in promoting relaxation in certain environments
- Mullein sometimes used to add a smoother smoke
- Raspberry leaves sometimes used as a base herb in blends
While these herbs don’t produce a psychoactive high, some users report a light sense of calm or relaxation. According to clinical research on lavender, its natural compounds have been studied for potential stress-reducing effects, though these are subtle and not comparable to the effects of THC.
Herbal blends have low levels of, or no, THC or CBD, which means that these do not have the same impact on the body as marijuana.
Some consumers also explore alternatives such as herbal blends from smoothmix when comparing non-THC options with traditional cannabis products. Any effects are generally mild and not comparable to THC, though this may vary depending on the blend.
For those who do not wish to become intoxicated, the use of herbal joints may provide the same experience as cannabis but without the cognitive side effects. There are also some who choose to use a combination of the two for a more diluted high.
How Does Cannabis In A Joint Cause High?
- The “high” associated with the cannabis joint is mostly related to the presence of THC. It is well described by various studies to be the main psychoactive compound of the drug.
- THCA is converted into THC when the drug is burned. Various studies have shown that the conversion is essential for the drug to have the desired effect.
- After inhalation, THC may enter the bloodstream quickly through the lungs and reach the brain within minutes.
What Does Weed Paper Do In A Joint?
Many beginners wonder if the weed paper plays a role in how strong the high feels, but its main purpose is simply structural. The rolling paper is a thin cover that keeps the ground cannabis in a neat and cylindrical shape. This is convenient for handling, rolling, and smoking the joint without the material disintegrating.
The rolling papers used should be of good quality, and they should burn at a rate that is consistent with the rate at which the cannabis is burning. This will ensure that the joint is not wasted because of the burning rate of the paper. In addition, the joint will not go out because of the rate at which the paper is burning.
There are different types of rolling papers available, and each can slightly affect the experience:
- Rice papers are very thin and burn slowly
- Hemp papers may be unbleached and may not affect the taste as much.
- Wood pulp papers are thicker and easier to roll, and may impart a taste of paper
Some studies on combustion materials suggest that additives or bleaching agents in papers can influence the smoke produced, which is why many users prefer more natural, unbleached options for a cleaner experience.
It’s important to understand that rolling paper itself does not cause any psychoactive effects. Even flavored papers (like grape or mint) are only meant to enhance taste and do not contain active compounds. The “high” comes from the cannabis inside, while the paper simply helps deliver it in a controlled and convenient way.
How Is Marijuana Smoked And How Do Joints Compare To Other Methods?
Cannabis is usually smoked by burning the dried flowers and then inhaling them. Even though the process is similar, there could be variations depending on the method, which could affect aspects such as temperature, smoothness, etc. Therefore, one method is preferred over others depending on factors such as convenience, etc.
Joints are one of the easiest and most popular methods. Joints involve rolling up marijuana in paper, making them convenient to use. However, joints do not have any form of filtration, meaning that the user simply inhales the smoke.
Research indicates that unfiltered methods of using marijuana could result in higher levels of exposure to by-products, though this varies depending on the user.
Other smoking methods offer slightly different experiences:
- Blunts use a tobacco leaf wrap, which contains nicotine. Some clinical research indicates that nicotine may influence how other compounds are experienced in the body.
- Spliffs combine cannabis with tobacco, which can affect how the mixture burns and is inhaled.
- Water pipes (bongs) pass smoke through water, and studies suggest this may cool the smoke, potentially making inhalation feel smoother.
- Pipes are compact and convenient but typically do not filter smoke, similar to joints.
Generally speaking, joints are still a favorite due to ease of use, but other methods offer different ways in which cannabis is administered. However, as tastes differ, some may opt to use other alternatives, such as herbal blends, including options from smoothmix, to better match their preferences
Are Rolling Papers Or Natural Leaf Wraps Better For Smoking?
In cannabis culture, people often debate between traditional rolling papers and natural leaf wraps.
Neither one is objectively "better" than the other, as the decision really comes down to how long you want your high to last, as well as your desired taste profile. Knowing the differences between them, however, can help you determine which one you need at any particular time.
Traditional papers are preferred for quick sessions or in cases where the user wants to really taste the flavors of the cannabis. The reason they are preferred is that they are very thin, so they don’t get in the way of the terpene profile. Natural leaf wraps are preferred in social cases, as they require a slower burn.
The choice between the two affects the burn rate. Natural wraps, being thicker, can burn for 10 to 20 minutes, whereas a standard joint might be finished in 5 minutes. This makes wraps ideal for sharing among a group.
Ultimately, it is up to personal preference. Some people enjoy the experience of rolling a thin rice paper, while others enjoy the earthy feel of a natural leaf. Regardless, the key to a consistent experience is to make sure you have high-quality rolling papers or wraps available.
