A Brief Look into Smokable Herbs 

Cannabis may be the main character when it comes to smokable herbs but it’s definitely not the only one of its kind. There are dozens of different herbs that are completely safe to smoke and have added wellness benefits. While these herbs don’t have any psychoactive effects, they can offer stress relief and relaxation when smoked. 

We’ve highlighted a few of some commonly smoked herbs and their known effects. 

Damiana

Damiana is a wild shrub that grows in subtropical climates such as Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Damiana is known to provide certain benefits when smoked such as relaxation, euphoria, increased blood flow and increased libido. Considered an aphrodisiac by some ancient civilizations, this tropical yellow flower lends a smooth, slight hickory-flavoured hint to any smoke blend.

Mullein 

You can find mullein growing in most pastures, along roadsides, in prairies and in gullies where there is full sun. It has an array of medicinal uses but is most well known for its antibacterial properties. In addition to its antibacterial benefits, mullein has long been used as a lung tonic. Smoking this herb has been used to relieve respiratory ailments such as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma attacks and more. The smoke is extremely light and mild, almost like smoking air, and virtually flavourless. 

Lavender

This popular aromatic herb is native to the Mediterranean. Smoking lavender can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation by allowing certain terpenes to be absorbed into the bloodstream through smoke inhalation. Lavender’s soothing properties can be attributed to its primary terpene, linalool, which has a slightly sedative effect. The signature lavender fragrance doesn’t dominate flavour when smoked as you would expect, instead it adds a slightly sweet, floral flavour. 

Raspberry Leaf 

Raspberry leaves are an excellent smokable herb as they are brimming with nutrients. They contain vitamins B, C, E as well as phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and potassium. Smoking raspberry leaves can help reduce bodily inflammation and its antioxidant properties will help prevent oxidative stress. Red raspberry is also a sedative herb that may produce a calming effect on the nervous system. Its fluffy texture makes it the perfect base for an herbal smoking blend.

Skullcap

Skullcap is a flowering perennial plant native to North America and Europe. An herb that delivers a diverse number of health benefits, skullcap is best known for reducing anxiety and insomnia. This incredible herb and our nervous system are a match made in heaven. Skullcap potentially boosts the central nervous system, reduces nervous anxiety and helps with nervous headaches. Skullcap has a pleasant, cinnamon-like scent and flavour that can be accompanied by feelings of mellow relaxation.

Uva Ursi

Uva Uri, also known as Bearberry, is a low lying evergreen shrub that tends to grow in dry sandy or rocky soil conditions, especially in mountainous regions. It is best known as a “urinary herb” that is antiseptic to the bladder and urinary tract. Uva Uri has traditional use as a smoke medicine among many Indigenous peoples, often mixed with other herbs to make a blend called Kinnickinik. Uva Ursi leaves have been used as a natural tobacco alternative even before tobacco made its place in the smoking industry. This herb has a medium smoke with a strong earthy flavour. The plant is said to give a narcotic effect to those not habituated to its use. 

These herbs can be smoked on their own or mixed together to create a unique blend you can tailor to your individual needs. There are many variations worth experimenting with, including adding herbs to your cannabis to enhance your smoking experience.