When your doctor prescribes dried cannabis flowers or vape cartridges in Australia, there are several devices you might need to make the most out of your medication. From vape cart batteries for easy, portable use to dry herb vaporisers and grinders that optimise the inhalation process, having the right tools can enhance the effectiveness and ease of your treatment.
This article will walk you through the essential devices, from herb grinders and vaporisers to vape cart batteries and guide you on how to use them effectively for medical cannabis consumption in Australia.
Using Herb Grinders
If you’re prescribed dried cannabis flowers, a grinder will be your go-to tool. Typically cylindrical, grinders come in 2 to 4 chambers and use sharp teeth to shred the flower into fine, even particles. Simply place your flower between the teeth, replace the lid, and twist to grind it down. This process helps eliminate unwanted plant material, such as stems and prepares the flower for an optimal vaporisation experience.
A grinder ensures your vaporiser can efficiently release all the cannabinoids and terpenes, resulting in a more consistent and potent dosage. With a variety of metal and plastic options available, you can find grinders that suit your personal preference and budget, with some costing as little as AUD 10. Some higher-end grinders also come with additional features such as kief catchers, which collect the tiny, potent trichomes that can be added back to your vaporised flower for an extra kick of potency.
Why Grinding Matters for Vaporisation
One of the key benefits of using a grinder is that it allows your cannabis to vaporise more evenly. When the flower is finely ground, the vaporiser can heat it more efficiently, ensuring that all of the plant material is evenly exposed to heat. This not only improves the overall experience by producing more vapour, but it also helps you stretch your prescription further, as it ensures that no cannabinoids are wasted.
Furthermore, finely ground cannabis allows for better airflow through the vaporiser, reducing the chances of clogging and improving the consistency of each inhalation. This is particularly beneficial for patients who require precise dosages and a consistent experience every time they medicate.
How to Vaporise Medical Cannabis Flower
Dry herb vaporisers are specifically designed to heat ground cannabis flowers to a temperature where the therapeutic compounds evaporate, producing vapour that you can inhale. In Australia, popular brands like Storz & Bickel offer top-tier vaporisers like the Mighty Medic and Volcano Medic 2, which are available through approved suppliers and pharmacies.
These vaporisers provide smooth vapour, reducing strain on the lungs compared to smoking. Their adjustable temperature settings allow patients to precisely target different cannabis compounds for their specific medical needs. For example, lower temperatures can release terpenes and certain cannabinoids that are beneficial for mood disorders, while higher temperatures can release compounds more effective for pain management.
Additionally, dry herb vaporisers can be more cost-effective since patients typically use less flower than with traditional smoking methods. Because the cannabis is not combusted, more of the active compounds are preserved, meaning you get more therapeutic value from a smaller amount of cannabis.
How to Use a Dry Herb Vaporiser:
- Measure out your prescribed dose of cannabis flower and grind it.
- Fill the vaporiser’s chamber with the ground herb or use dosing capsules, depending on the model.
- Turn on the vaporiser, adjust the temperature if needed, and wait for it to heat up.
- Inhale the vapour once it’s ready.
- Clean the device regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Desktop vaporisers like the Volcano Medic offer a slightly different experience. They allow you to fill a balloon with vapour or inhale directly through a tube, cooling the vapour and offering a smoother experience. These devices tend to be more powerful and provide better flavour and vapour production, making them a good option for patients who prefer to medicate at home.
Maintaining Your Vaporiser
To ensure your vaporiser continues to work effectively, regular maintenance is essential. This involves cleaning the chamber and any parts that come into contact with the cannabis flower or vapour. Most devices come with cleaning tools and instructions on how to disassemble the parts for proper cleaning. Using rubbing alcohol and small brushes can help remove residue and prevent clogging, ensuring a clean, smooth vapour every time.
What is a Vape Cartridge?
Vape cartridges (commonly known as vape carts) contain prefilled liquid cannabis concentrates that offer a convenient and discreet method of cannabis consumption. Paired with a vape battery, these devices heat the concentrate until it vaporises, delivering quick relief, especially for acute symptoms like pain or anxiety.
In Australia, vape cartridges are popular for their portability and ease of use. They’re typically smaller and more affordable than dry herb vaporisers and ideal for patients with mobility issues, as they require less manual effort and maintenance. Vape carts come in various strains and cannabinoid profiles, allowing patients to easily switch between products to target different conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia.
How to Use a Vape Cart Battery:
- Attach the vape cart to the battery.
- Press the power button to heat the concentrate.
- Inhale for the recommended time to ensure precise dosing.
Vape batteries typically last 6-12 months and cost between AUD 20-30, making them a budget-friendly option. Some batteries also offer variable voltage settings, which allow you to adjust the intensity of the vapour, providing more control over your experience.
Choosing the Right Device
Selecting the right medical cannabis device depends on your specific treatment plan, lifestyle preferences, and budget. Portable devices like the Mighty Medic provide on-the-go relief, while desktop vaporisers offer a more customisable experience for at-home use. If you require quick, discreet dosing throughout the day, a vape cartridge system may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you prefer more control over temperature and vapour production, a dry herb vaporiser could be the better option.
It’s essential to consult your doctor or healthcare provider when deciding which device is best for you, as they can offer guidance on how each option fits into your overall treatment plan. Additionally, the clinical team at your pharmacy or dispensary can provide hands-on demonstrations and answer any questions you may have about operating and maintaining your devices.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
In Australia, medical cannabis is legal under certain conditions, and patients must have a prescription from an authorised prescriber or through the Special Access Scheme (SAS). The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates medical cannabis products, ensuring they meet strict safety and quality standards.
Medical cannabis devices, such as vaporisers, must also comply with Australian regulations. Devices like the Mighty Medic and Volcano Medic are registered medical devices, ensuring they meet the required safety standards for therapeutic use. It’s important to purchase your devices from authorised suppliers to ensure compliance with Australian regulations and to access any necessary warranty or support services.
As medical cannabis continues to gain acceptance in Australia, more device options are becoming available, giving patients greater flexibility in managing their conditions. Staying informed about the latest developments and regulations can help you make the best decisions for your treatment journey.
