Joints rolled with tobacco (also called spliffs) are a common occurrence in various parts of the world, especially in European countries. The addition of tobacco helps a joint to burn slower and more evenly. Many smokers also like the contrast of the stimulating effects of nicotine paired with the calming and relaxing sensations offered by cannabis.
Despite these few benefits, tobacco is known to cause many different health conditions such as cancer, and can cause major damage to the cardiovascular system when consumed on a regular basis. Those who like to include tobacco in their spliffs will be pleased to know that there are a plethora of alternatives that allow for steady and slow burning. Additionally, many of them provide other effects that complement the smoking experience.
Here is a list of 10 of the best alternatives to using tobacco in a spliff.
1. DAMIANA
Damiana is an interesting herb with a rich history. It was originally utilised by the Aztecs as a remedy for impotence, and is reported to exhibit aphrodisiac effects and boost sexual drive and desire. Damiana is also used traditionally to treat headaches, depression, bedwetting, and constipation.
The herb is also associated with a mild psychoactive effect that is said to uplift the user, due to the presence of substances that may affect the nervous system and brain. Next time you fancy getting in the mood with your partner, sprinkle some dried damiana into a joint as a tobacco alternative.
2. KRATOM
Kratom, known by its scientific name Mitragyna speciosa, is a member of the coffee family that is native to Southeast Asia. The plant has garnered some serious attention over its ability to assist opioid users in cases of withdrawal. Kratom is known as an effective opioid substitute, meaning it may also be effective at managing chronic pain.
Kratom has been used traditionally for hundreds of years and played the role of a traditional medicine. The leaves are still chewed as a means to relieve pain and boost energy.
The effects brought on by kratom are dose-dependant. Lower doses of the plant, between 1–5g, cause stimulant effects that are felt within a timeframe of 10 minutes and last up to 90 minutes. These effects may lead to increased energy and alertness.
Moderate doses of the plant, between 5–15g, have opioid-like effects. The effects of doses of this size can last for multiple hours and may incite pain relief, a calm mental state, and a reduction of opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Kratom can be sprinkled into spliffs in a dose-dependant manner in order to achieve the desired effects. However, users should thoroughly research the plant beforehand to make sure it is compatible with any health conditions they have or any medications they are taking, as side effects and complications are possible and have been reported.
3. KANNA
Kanna, or Sceletium tortuosum, is an herb that is recognised for its abilities to boost mood and ease stress, tension, and anxiety. Doses on the lower end of the spectrum are reported to induce stimulation, whilst higher doses are associated with more sedating effects. This dose-dependant action makes kanna quite a flexible addition to a weed smoking session, with users able to adjust the effects depending on the occasion and all around mood of the setting.
Some users report that kanna boosts their confidence in social situations, so it may help to enhance conversations and decrease social anxiety. For this reason, it may also help to offset any anxiety associated with cannabis consumption. Although, kanna is said to enhance some of the effects of cannabis too.
Once again, be sure to research this plant before adding it to your spliffs, to make sure it is safe for you to consume as an individual. For example, the herb may temporarily increase blood pressure.
4. LAVENDER
This famous and therapeutic herb is easy to access and is found residing in many gardens across the world. The stunning scents derived from this species are in part due to the presence of the terpene linalool, also found in many different strains of cannabis. This terpene can add some truly delicious tastes to spliffs.
The role of lavender in a spliff goes far beyond just taste though; the so-called “entourage effect” makes it apparent that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD synergise with terpenes to boost the effects and alter the high.
Smoking lavender is reported to possibly assist with nervousness and insomnia, and can make for a smoother smoking experience.
5. ROSEMARY
Often found within many delicious culinary dishes, rosemary is another herb often found in gardens. As well as tasting delicious, rosemary is associated with improved cognition and memory due to the active constituents found within the plant. The herb may also assist with inflammation and immune system function.
6. HOPS
This herb is commonly found within a wide variety of beers, yet it can also play a part in spliffs too. Hops are actually part of the same plant family as cannabis. Hops contain the terpene myrcene, which is also found within numerous types of cannabis. This terpene is associated with both sedative and antidepressant effects, making it an enjoyable and complementary addition to a cannabis high.
Hops are reported to be dangerous when smoked at higher temperatures, so this herb is a better addition to vaping blends instead.
7. CATNIP
Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, stars in many online videos of cats ingesting the herb and shortly after exhibiting some strong psychoactive effects. The herb also generates some interesting effects in humans, only slightly less intensely. The addition of catnip in a spliff can contribute a sedating effect, leading to feelings of relaxation and stress relief.
8. GREENGO
Greengo is a much healthier alternative to tobacco that helps spliffs burn at a steady pace. The mixture is a combination of papaya, mint, hazel leaf, and eucalyptus. Greengo contains no nicotine and is in no way addictive. It also produces much less tar than tobacco.
9. SKULLCAP
Skullcap serves as a superb replacement for tobacco when looking for a mellow and relaxing high. The herb is used traditionally to ease anxiety, reduce nervous tension, and stress. This makes the herb an excellent addition to indica strains. There are numerous species of skullcap with varying effects, so make sure to look for the right one for you.
10. SAGE
Sage is another herb found in many gardens and upon many kitchen shelves. Who knew it could also be added to spliffs to boost relaxation and calmness. White sage, in particular, is known to bring about these effects. The dried herb also helps to bulk out spliffs and assists with burning.
