THC e-liquid: why you should not use it

With the growing popularity of the electronic cigarette as an effective tool for smoking cessation, it is not surprising to see THC e liquids appearing on the vaping market. Illegal in France, THC products can represent a real danger. Let’s take a look at the various problems associated with using THC in an e-liquid and what substitute products vapers can use with their electronic cigarettes.

What is THC ?

What does science tell us about THC? THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive molecule found in cannabis. It is responsible for the "high," euphoria, or altered perception often associated with this plant. Unlike CBD (cannabidiol), which does not cause a psychotropic effect, THC acts directly on the central nervous system by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Its consumption can cause impaired senses, memory or concentration troubles, as well as dependency. While it is sometimes used for recreational or medical purposes in certain countries, its presence in e-liquids raises numerous health and legal questions.

What is a THC e-liquid ?

A THC e-liquid is an e-liquid containing tetrahydrocannabinol, a cannabinoid derived from cannabis. This product is considered a more discreet alternative for consuming cannabis and opens up a wide range of different flavours and aromas. Like a classic e-liquid, THC e-liquids are made from a liquid base composed of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine. The difference is that tetrahydrocannabinol extracts are added, and sometimes terpenes are included to enhance the taste and vaping experience. Similar to traditional e-liquids, a THC e-liquid can also be composed of flavourings to offer more original tastes. Vaping THC e-liquid is considered a gentler way to consume cannabis because, like tobacco cigarettes, the e-liquid format does not involve combustion. The absorption of cannabinoids through an e-liquid is faster and offers almost immediate effects.

Potential for Addiction

As mentioned previously, one of the main dangers of a THC product lies in its addictive potential. By acting on the brain's reward circuits, this molecule can create a feeling of artificial well-being that encourages repeated consumption. In the long term, this mechanism promotes the development of psychological, and sometimes physical, dependence in some users. Studies show that regular THC consumption increases the risk of habituation, with a progressive tolerance that pushes the user to take more to feel the same effects. In the case of a THC e-liquid, the risk is even more concerning: inhalation through vaping facilitates rapid absorption of the molecule, which can heighten dependency and make withdrawal more difficult.

Health Risks

Effects on the Brain

THC acts directly on the brain by attaching to the cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This interaction disrupts the normal functioning of certain brain areas related to memory, concentration, coordination, and emotions. In the short term, this can result in attention disorders, an altered perception of time, decreased reactivity, or difficulty memorising information. In the long term, regular THC consumption can modify brain function, especially in young people whose brains are still developing. This can lead to persistent cognitive disorders, a greater vulnerability to anxiety or depression, and in some cases, encourage the onset of psychotic disorders.

Effects on the Lungs

Vaping a THC e-liquid directly exposes the respiratory tract to harmful substances. Inhaling vapour containing THC can irritate the bronchi and cause coughing, shortness of breath, or lung inflammation. Some THC e-liquids also contain chemical additives or solvents, which have already been associated with serious cases of lung injury. In the long term, repeated use weakens the respiratory system and increases the risk of chronic diseases. Unlike conventional vaping of e-liquids with or without nicotine, the addition of THC and illegal compounds makes these products dangerous for lung health.

Legality and Regulation

In France, the legal environment surrounding THC is particularly strict. This substance is classified as a narcotic, making its production, sale, and consumption formally prohibited. Possession or use of products containing THC, including in the form of e-liquids, exposes the user to criminal sanctions, ranging from heavy fines to prison sentences. Unlike CBD, which is authorised under certain conditions (notably a THC level of less than 0.3%), THC remains totally prohibited on French territory. Using or marketing a THC e-liquid therefore constitutes an offense with significant legal consequences.

CBD E-liquid: A Safe and Legal Alternative

Unlike THC, CBD (cannabidiol) has no psychotropic effect and does not lead to addiction. Used in e-liquids, CBD represents a safer and legal alternative for vapers looking for relaxation without the risk of altered consciousness. CBD is recognised for its both relaxing and soothing effect while respecting French regulations when it contains less than 0.3% THC.

Opting for a CBD e-liquid thus allows one to enjoy a secure vaping experience, without danger to mental health and in compliance with the legal framework. As with quitting tobacco cigarettes, the electronic cigarette is also a way to withdraw from cannabis with a wide choice of CBD e liquids. You can enjoy an e-liquid experience with effects identical to classic smoked CBD. However, vaping a CBD e-liquid is discouraged in certain situations, as it still alters concentration and other brain receptors. Therefore, it is advised to be careful with the dosage used. There are several choices in terms of CBD levels to feel the effects of CBD more or less intensely.

What Types of Electronic Cigarettes for Vaping CBD?

When you want to vape a CBD e-liquid with an electronic cigarette, there are a few rules to follow. For the experience to be optimal, the consumption of a CBD e-liquid must be done with an appropriate, high-quality electronic cigarette. Fortunately, several choices are available to you; the essential part is to use a vaping product that allows you to best enjoy the flavours and effects of the CBD e-liquid.

While with an e-liquid composed of nicotine, one can afford to vape at high temperatures with power exceeding 100 watts, CBD e-liquid should only be vaped at moderate power. Therefore, you should favour an MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) type electronic cigarette, which provides an indirect inhalation more similar to the draw of a classic cigarette. This type of equipment generally operates at power levels varying between 10 and 20 watts. It's important to know that, like nicotine salt e-liquids, the CBD molecule does not like high temperatures. Vaping at too high a power alters this molecule and causes it to lose its effectiveness. Therefore, prioritise an e-cigarette with a clearomiser that includes coils designed for low-power vaping. This type of resistance is generally found in "pen" type e-cigarettes. Pen-style electronic cigarettes are named as such because they have a slim, elegant design reminiscent of a pen. The e-cig pen is easily portable, making it a popular choice for vapers of nicotine salt and CBD e-liquids.

What CBD Aromas and Flavours are Available ?

On the Le Petit Vapoteur website, we offer a wide choice of e-liquids composed of cannabidiol with different concentration levels. Among the quality brands, there are many producers in France with recognised expertise in the world of vaping and CBD hemp. Although generally more expensive than a classic e-liquid, CBD hemp-flavoured e-liquids can be found at affordable prices for all budgets. Here are some examples of the best CBD products:

Super Skunk Marie Jeanne

• The Super Skunk e-liquid is a product with a natural hemp aroma (terpenes) featuring earthy and slightly sweet notes.

OG Kush Greeneo

Discover hemp flavours with slightly spicy notes combined with a touch of skunk.

Full Spectrum Nature & CBD

An authentic vegetable flavour thanks to the use of a full-spectrum hemp extract.

Amnesia Marie Jeanne

An Amnesia e-liquid composed of a mix of cardamom and limonene—tangy and floral aromas that give it such a distinctive flavour. Amnesia e-liquid contains natural aromas (terpenes).