So, you’ve been vaping your favorite herb and have a collection of Already Vaped Bud (AVB), also sometimes referred to as Already Been Vaped Bud (ABV). The question that’s likely on your mind is: can you still get high from it? The answer is a resounding “maybe,” but it’s a bit more complicated than just lighting it up again. Let’s delve into the science behind AVB, its potential effects, and how to use it responsibly.
What is Already Vaped Bud (AVB)?
AVB is exactly what it sounds like: the leftover plant material after you’ve vaporized your cannabis. When you use a vaporizer, you’re heating the cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids like THC and CBD without burning the plant. The heat decarboxylates the cannabinoids, activating them and making them available for your body to absorb. After this process, the remaining material is considered AVB.
The appearance of AVB can vary greatly depending on several factors:
- The temperature of your vaporizer: Higher temperatures will result in darker AVB, indicating more cannabinoids have been vaporized. Lower temperatures will produce lighter AVB, suggesting more cannabinoids remain.
- The length of your vaping session: Longer sessions naturally extract more cannabinoids, leading to darker AVB. Shorter sessions leave more behind.
- The type of cannabis strain: Different strains have different cannabinoid profiles, which can affect the color and potency of the AVB.
The Science of Decarboxylation
Decarboxylation is a crucial chemical process for understanding AVB’s effects. Raw cannabis contains cannabinoids in their acidic forms, like THCA and CBDA. These forms aren’t psychoactive. Heating cannabis, whether through vaping or baking, removes a carboxyl group (COOH) from these molecules, converting THCA into THC and CBDA into CBD. This conversion is what makes these compounds active and able to interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system.
Vaping decarboxylates much of the THCA into THC. However, the extent of decarboxylation depends on the vaping temperature and duration. This is why AVB still contains some active cannabinoids.
Can AVB Still Get You High?
The short answer is yes, AVB can still get you high, but the high is different from vaping fresh cannabis. The potency of AVB is significantly lower than the original flower, as a large portion of the THC has already been vaporized. However, it will likely contain a good amount of CBN. CBN is a cannabinoid that’s known to have sedating effects.
The specific effects you experience will depend on several factors:
- The original potency of the cannabis: If you started with a high-THC strain, the AVB will likely be more potent than if you started with a low-THC strain.
- The vaping temperature: As mentioned earlier, higher temperatures extract more cannabinoids, resulting in less potent AVB.
- Your tolerance: Individuals with a higher tolerance to cannabis will likely need more AVB to feel the effects.
- Your metabolism: Your body’s metabolism affects how quickly and efficiently you process cannabinoids.
The Role of CBN
As THC degrades over time and with exposure to heat and oxygen, it converts into CBN (cannabinol). This conversion happens during the vaping process, making AVB a source of CBN. CBN is known for its potential sedative and relaxing effects. It may also have some pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, although more research is needed. The presence of CBN in AVB can contribute to a different type of high, often described as more relaxing and sleepy than the energetic high associated with THC.
How to Use AVB Safely and Effectively
If you’re planning to use AVB, it’s important to do so safely and responsibly. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Start with a small dose: It’s always best to start with a small amount and gradually increase the dose until you achieve the desired effects. A good starting point is 0.25 grams to 0.5 grams, especially if you’re new to using AVB.
- Be patient: It can take longer to feel the effects of AVB compared to vaping or smoking. Edibles, in general, take longer to kick in, and AVB consumed directly acts like an edible. Allow at least 1-2 hours before taking more.
- Consider your tolerance: If you have a high tolerance to cannabis, you may need a larger dose of AVB to feel the effects. However, it’s still important to start with a small amount and increase gradually.
- Mix it with food: Eating AVB on its own can be unpleasant due to its taste and texture. Mixing it with food, such as yogurt, peanut butter, or a smoothie, can make it more palatable and easier to digest.
- Use caution when driving or operating machinery: Like any cannabis product, AVB can impair your cognitive and motor skills. Avoid driving or operating machinery after consuming AVB.
- Store AVB properly: Store AVB in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency.
Methods of Consumption
There are several ways to consume AVB:
- Eating it directly: While not the most palatable option, you can eat AVB directly. Many people mix it with a spoonful of peanut butter or yogurt to mask the taste.
- Capsules: You can fill empty capsules with AVB for a convenient and discreet way to consume it.
- Infusing it into oil or butter: This is a popular method for making edibles. You can infuse AVB into coconut oil, butter, or other fats, which can then be used in various recipes.
- Adding it to smoothies or shakes: AVB can be added to smoothies or shakes to mask the taste and provide a boost of cannabinoids.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Using AVB can offer several potential benefits, but it’s also important to be aware of the risks:
- Benefits: AVB can be a cost-effective way to use your cannabis more efficiently. It can also provide relaxing and pain-relieving effects, thanks to the presence of CBN. It’s also an easy way to make edibles without going through the decarboxylation process.
- Risks: The potency of AVB can be unpredictable, making it difficult to dose accurately. Overconsumption can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and other unpleasant side effects. In addition, the taste of AVB can be off-putting for some people.
Understanding Dosage
Dosage is a crucial aspect of using AVB effectively and safely. Since the potency of AVB can vary, it’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effects. A good starting dose for beginners is around 0.25 grams to 0.5 grams. Experienced cannabis users may need a higher dose, but it’s still important to start low and go slow.
Factors that influence dosage include:
- The darkness of your AVB: Darker AVB has less THC and more CBN, requiring a larger dose for psychoactive effects but giving stronger sedative effects.
- Your individual tolerance: Tolerance varies greatly among individuals.
- Your metabolism: How your body processes cannabinoids affects how strongly you’ll feel the effects.
It’s crucial to wait at least 1-2 hours after consuming AVB before taking more, as edibles take longer to kick in.
Making AVB Edibles
One of the most popular ways to use AVB is by making edibles. Since the cannabis has already been decarboxylated, you can skip that step and go straight to infusing it into oil or butter.
Infusing AVB into Oil or Butter
Infusing AVB into oil or butter is a relatively simple process. You’ll need:
- AVB
- Coconut oil, butter, or another fat of your choice
- A saucepan or slow cooker
- A cheesecloth or strainer
Here’s how to do it:
- Water Cure (Optional): If you want to reduce the taste of AVB, you can water cure it. Place the AVB in a jar, cover it with water, stir, and then drain the water. Repeat this process several times over a few days until the water runs clear.
- Combine AVB and fat: In a saucepan or slow cooker, combine the AVB and the fat of your choice. Use enough fat to completely cover the AVB.
- Heat gently: If using a saucepan, heat the mixture on low heat for 2-4 hours, stirring occasionally. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 4-8 hours. The longer you cook it, the more cannabinoids will be infused into the fat. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this can degrade the cannabinoids.
- Strain the mixture: Once the infusion is complete, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or strainer to remove the AVB.
- Store the infused oil or butter: Store the infused oil or butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
You can then use this infused oil or butter in your favorite recipes to make edibles.
AVB Edible Recipes
Here are a couple of simple AVB edible recipes to get you started:
- AVB Firecrackers: These are a quick and easy way to consume AVB. Simply spread peanut butter on crackers, sprinkle AVB on top, and bake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- AVB Brownies: Use your infused AVB oil or butter in your favorite brownie recipe. This is a classic and delicious way to enjoy AVB edibles.
When making edibles, remember to start with a small amount and be patient. It can take longer to feel the effects compared to other methods of consumption.
Conclusion: AVB – A Second Chance at Enjoyment?
AVB can be a valuable resource for cannabis consumers. While its potency is lower than fresh cannabis, it still contains cannabinoids that can produce psychoactive and therapeutic effects. By understanding the science behind AVB, using it safely and responsibly, and experimenting with different consumption methods, you can make the most of your already vaped bud and enjoy a second chance at enjoyment. Always remember to start low, go slow, and prioritize your safety and well-being. Enjoy responsibly!
What is ABV and how is it different from regular cannabis?
ABV stands for Already Been Vaped, referring to cannabis that has already undergone vaporization. During vaping, cannabinoids like THC are heated and inhaled, leaving behind plant material with significantly reduced, but not entirely depleted, cannabinoid content. Think of it like coffee grounds after brewing; they still contain some caffeine but are far less potent than fresh grounds.
Regular cannabis, in its unvaped form, contains a higher concentration of cannabinoids, including THC, the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the “high.” ABV, on the other hand, has already had a significant portion of its THC vaporized. This difference in cannabinoid content directly impacts the potential for psychoactive effects, with ABV generally being much less potent than its unvaped counterpart.
Can ABV actually get you high?
Yes, ABV can get you high, but the intensity and type of high will depend on several factors. These factors include the original potency of the cannabis used, the temperature and duration of the vaporization process, and your individual tolerance. Even after vaping, some THC remains in the plant material, which can be consumed and processed by the body, leading to psychoactive effects.
However, because a significant portion of the THC has already been vaporized, the high from ABV is typically less intense and more sedative compared to consuming fresh cannabis. Many users report a body-focused high, with effects like relaxation and pain relief being more prominent. It’s important to start with a small dose of ABV to gauge its potency and avoid overconsumption, as effects can take longer to manifest when ingested.
How do you consume ABV to get high?
Unlike regular cannabis, which is often smoked or vaped, ABV is typically ingested. Since it’s already decarboxylated (heated and activated), you don’t need to cook it further to activate the cannabinoids. You can add it directly to various foods and drinks. Common methods include mixing it into yogurt, smoothies, or even spreading it on toast with peanut butter.
Another popular method is to infuse ABV into oils or butter, similar to making cannabutter with fresh cannabis. This infused product can then be used in recipes for edibles, offering a more controlled and palatable way to consume ABV. Remember that the effects of ingested cannabis, including ABV, take longer to kick in compared to inhalation, so patience is key.
What is the ideal dosage of ABV for a first-time user?
Determining the ideal dosage of ABV is tricky due to the variability in potency. Factors like the original strength of the cannabis, the vaping temperature, and individual tolerance all play a role. A good starting point for a first-time user is a small dose, around 0.1 to 0.25 grams. This low dose allows you to gauge your sensitivity to the remaining cannabinoids without risking overconsumption.
It’s crucial to wait at least 2-3 hours after consuming the initial dose before considering taking more. The effects of ingested cannabis take longer to manifest than inhaled cannabis, so patience is essential. If you don’t feel any effects after that time, you can gradually increase the dosage in increments of 0.1 gram until you find the right level for you.
Are there any risks associated with consuming ABV?
Yes, there are risks associated with consuming ABV. Because the potency is often unpredictable, it’s easy to accidentally consume too much, leading to unpleasant side effects like anxiety, paranoia, nausea, and dizziness. This is especially true for inexperienced users or those with a low tolerance for cannabis. Always start with a small dose and be patient.
Another potential risk is the taste and texture of ABV. It can be quite bitter and dry, which some people find unpalatable. Masking the taste with strongly flavored foods or drinks can help, but it’s still a factor to consider. Finally, as with any cannabis product, consuming ABV may interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
How does vaping temperature affect the potency of ABV?
Vaping temperature significantly impacts the potency of ABV. Lower temperatures tend to preserve more cannabinoids, resulting in ABV that is more potent. Higher temperatures, on the other hand, vaporize more cannabinoids, leaving behind ABV with less THC and other psychoactive compounds. The darker the ABV, the more cannabinoids have been extracted.
Think of it like brewing tea; steeping at a higher temperature extracts more tannins, resulting in a stronger, more bitter tea. Similarly, higher vaping temperatures extract more cannabinoids from the cannabis, leaving less behind in the ABV. Therefore, users who vape at lower temperatures can expect their ABV to be more potent than those who vape at higher temperatures.
How can I store ABV to preserve its potency?
Proper storage of ABV can help preserve its potency and prevent degradation of the remaining cannabinoids. The best way to store ABV is in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and moisture. These elements can all contribute to the breakdown of cannabinoids, reducing the ABV’s effectiveness over time. A dark-colored glass jar stored in a cool, dry place is ideal.
For long-term storage, consider adding a desiccant packet to the container to absorb any excess moisture. Freezing ABV is generally not recommended, as it can alter the texture and potentially degrade the cannabinoids. Storing ABV properly will help ensure that it retains its potency for as long as possible, allowing you to make the most of your already-vaped cannabis.