Vaping CBD vs. Nicotine—Everything You Need To Know

Vapes have emerged as a popular alternative for those looking to quit traditional tobacco products. While cigarettes contain tobacco, the leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, CBD and nicotine vapes are 100% tobacco-free. These devices use heat to activate the ingredients in their e-liquids, avoiding the production of cigarette smoke, which contains over 7,000 toxic chemicals, including 69 known carcinogens.

Many former smokers are turning to CBD vapes as a healthier alternative to nicotine, but is this assumption true? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between vaping CBD vs. nicotine, focusing on their effects on the body and mind, unwanted reactions, and potential health risks. We’ll also recommend safer alternatives to meet your nicotine needs.

CBD Vape vs. Nicotine Vape—Origin and Composition

Both nicotine and CBD are naturally occurring substances derived from different plants. Nicotine is an organic compound found in the Nicotiana plant species, which includes over 60 varieties. In contrast, CBD is a compound that’s commonly extracted from cannabis plants. Let’s explore other differences and similarities they have. 

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CBD Vapes Explained

Cannabis and industrial hemp contain two cannabinoids—cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is known for its psychoactive properties, causing euphoric and intoxicating effects commonly referred to as being “high.” In contrast, CBD is not a psychoactive substance and has been classified as safe for human use by the FDA.

There are three main types of CBD available on the market:

1. Full-spectrum—Contains additional compounds from cannabis and industrial hemp, including THC
2. Broad-spectrum—Includes additional compounds from cannabis and industrial hemp but excludes THC
3. CBD isolate—Contains only pure CBD, free from any other compounds

CBD vape oil refers to any e-liquid used for vaping that contains CBD. These e-liquids are typically made from CBD isolate and rarely include other cannabinoids. Aside from CBD, they may contain fruit extracts and terpenes—aromatic compounds responsible for the scent of many plants and herbs.

Nicotine Vapes Explained

Regular and disposable nicotine vapes use either freebase nicotine or nic salts, typically dissolved in a mixture of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), combined with various flavorings to enhance the vaping experience. This mixture allows for a wider variety of flavors and nicotine strengths compared to cigarettes, catering to different user preferences and needs.

Vaping CBD vs. Nicotine—Effects on Body and Mind

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Nicotine and CBD have different effects on the mind and body, resulting in unique experiences that appeal to different types of users. Read on to learn about the effects you can expect from each type of vape. 

Effects of Vaping CBD

Research suggests CBD may offer several health benefits and help alleviate specific symptoms, though there is limited evidence to support these claims.

It’s also important to note that no studies confirm these effects are achievable through vaping, and the potential side effects of vaping likely outweigh any benefits CBD might provide in this form.

Effects of Vaping Nicotine

Nicotine is a powerful stimulant that triggers a range of short-term reactions in your body. Once it enters your bloodstream, nicotine binds to nicotinic receptors in the brain, stimulating it to release several neurotransmitters, including:

• Dopamine 
• Serotonin
• Norepinephrine (Adrenaline)
• Acetylcholine
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid
• Glutamate

These “feel-good” hormones regulate various functions, leading to two main effects—feelings of calmness and satisfaction, alongside increased energy, alertness, and focus (depending on the nicotine strength).

According to some sources, regular nicotine use may also provide the following benefits:

• Performance enhancement
• Reduction in body weight
• Protection against Parkinson’s disease, Tourette’s syndrome, and Alzheimer’s disease
• Alleviating the symptoms of ulcerative colitis
• Easing sleep apnea symptoms

Nicotine Vape vs. CBD Vape—Addiction Potential

Despite being considerably safer and cheaper than smoking, the primary active ingredient in traditional vapes is the same as in cigarettes—nicotine. While not carcinogenic, nicotine is highly addictive and can lead to long-term dependence and unpleasant withdrawal symptoms with regular use.

One of the main reasons many former smokers and hookah users switch to CBD vapes is because they are nicotine-free and not addictive. This makes them a popular choice for those looking to quit cigarettes and nicotine altogether. Still, vaping in any form, including CBD, can lead to oral fixation, which may be as addictive as nicotine.

Health Risks of Vaping CBD vs. Nicotine

While CBD and nicotine vapes are considered safer than traditional tobacco products, they are not risk-free and come with several potential health concerns.

Most people can safely tolerate CBD at doses up to 600 mg. Still, using CBD vapes may cause side effects that vary among individuals. The most common ones include:

• Drowsiness
• Impaired reasoning and memory
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Appetite changes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

Since the FDA does not regulate CBD vapes, their purity can be subpar. This makes it difficult to predict their side effects because their contents vary across manufacturers, brands, and even among individual products. Still, the most common side effects include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Throat and mouth irritation
• Persistent cough
• Hiccups
• Diarrhea

Lung Injuries Associated With Vaping

In 2019, nearly 3,000 vapers with acute respiratory symptoms required hospital treatment, resulting in 68 deaths. The primary cause of this incident was vitamin E acetate, a common ingredient of CBD e-liquids. This condition, known as e-cigarette- or vaping-use-associated lung injury (EVALI), highlights the potentially serious risks of using unregulated vapes and e-liquids.

Both CBD and nicotine vapes use PG and VG to dilute their contents. While safe for oral consumption, heating them above 419°F (215°C) can produce harmful compounds like formaldehyde and acetaldehyde.

Certain flavorings in e-liquids, such as diacetyl, cinnamaldehyde, acetoin, pentanedione, o-vanillin, maltol, and coumarin, may trigger inflammatory responses in monocytic cells. A study analyzing 51 vape juice flavors for diacetyl 2,3-pentanedione and acetoin found that 92% contained one or more of these harmful chemicals.

Unknown Long-Term Health Effects of Vaping

Despite their recent rise in popularity, nicotine and CBD vapes are still relatively new and under-researched. While vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, there are no long-term studies on their effects over extended periods. The lack of research makes it difficult to evaluate their long-term impact, raising concerns regarding their safety.

Is There a Safer Way To Consume CBD or Nicotine? 

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While inhaling CBD and nicotine is the fastest way to curb your cravings, many alternative methods offer an equally satisfying experience with lower risks.

CBD Vape Alternatives

CBD is available in various forms, allowing you to choose the method that best suits your needs. These alternatives fall into three main categories:

1. Topical or transdermal application methods—These products are applied directly to the skin and include balms, gels, creams, ointments, lotions, oils, patches, and salves 
2. Orally absorbing solutions—Products that deliver CBD through your oral mucosa, including oils, tinctures, CBD pouches, lozenges, mints, and gummies
3. Edibles and capsules—Products meant to be swallowed, such as capsules, chocolates, seltzers, and teas

Nicotine Vape Alternatives

Some of the most popular alternatives to vaping nicotine include:

• Nicotine pouches—Pre-packaged bags containing pharmacy-grade nicotine and food-grade ingredients. They release nicotine and flavor gradually as they get moistened by saliva
• Nicotine gum—A type of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by providing a controlled dose of nicotine when chewed
• Nicotine lozenges—Small, dissolvable mints that release nicotine as they dissolve in your mouth, helping you curb cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms
• Nicotine inhalers—Prescription-based devices that deliver vaporized nicotine through the lining in the back of your throat, mimicking the hand-to-mouth sensation of vaping

Nicotine Pouches—The Safest Way To Consume Nicotine

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Nicotine pouches are a safer vape alternative that provides several advantages over nicotine vaping devices:

• Wide range of strengths—Unlike chewing tobacco and dip, nicotine pouches come in various strengths, making them suitable for beginners and seasoned users alike. Options range from nicotine-free to as high as 50 mg per pouch in some of the strongest options, allowing you to choose a strength that fits your nicotine tolerance
• High absorption rates—Nicotine pouches deliver up to 50% of their total nicotine content, offering higher absorption rates than any other tobacco or nicotine product
• Prolonged nicotine delivery—While nicotine vapes provide a quick hit, their effects are short-lived, lasting only a few minutes. In contrast, nicotine pouches deliver a steady buzz that can last up to an hour
• Wide flavor variety—Nicotine pouches don’t have a strong tobacco taste and are available in nearly endless flavor combinations, including minty, fruity, sweet, and spicy options
• No teeth stains—Unlike vapes, which emit particles that can stick to your teeth and cause stains, nicotine pouches won’t stain your teeth and will keep your breath fresh
• Convenient—Nicotine pouches are vaporless, spitless, and compact, making them practical and easy to use discreetly anytime and anywhere

How To Use Nicotine Pouches

Using nicotine pouches is simple and doesn’t require a complicated setup. Follow these steps:

1. Place a single pouch between your gums and upper lip
2. Let the pouch rest for 5 to 45 minutes, depending on your preference and nicotine tolerance. Don’t suck, chew, or swallow the pouch
3. Once satisfied, remove the used pouch and discard it responsibly, either in the trash or using the catch lid on the can

Get Premium EU-Made Nicotine Pouches From SnusBoss

Source: SnusBoss

Led by a team of seasoned experts with over a decade of experience in the nicotine industry, SnusBoss is your go-to source for the best nicotine pouches on the market. The store stocks top European nicotine pouch brands, known for delivering richer flavors, more moisture, and a stronger kick than any U.S. brand.

Explore the table below for all the premium nicotine pouch brands available at SnusBoss:

Ordering from SnusBoss is simple—follow these steps:

1. Visit the online store
2. Select your desired brand, strength, and flavor
3. Enter your shipping and billing info

Choose express delivery at checkout to receive your order in 2–3 business days. Orders over $249 qualify for free shipping.

Potential Side Effects of Nicotine Pouches

Although nicotine pouches are one of the safest methods of nicotine consumption, overuse can lead to several side effects associated with excessive nicotine intake.

Common side effects include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
• Acid reflux
• Hiccups
• Sore throat
• Gum irritation and soreness

Featured image source: Jeff W