Why Does Weed Make You Cough? Understanding the Causes

Published on: 07/03/2025

Inhaling Cannabis Smoke Triggers a Series of Physiological Responses in the Airways, Leading to Irritation and Coughing

In the realm of cannabis consumption, a familiar experience for many is the onset of coughing. For those who partake, this reflex action is often considered a routine, albeit sometimes unwelcome, part of the process. However, the question of why cannabis elicits coughing, and whether this coughing has any bearing on the intensity of the cannabis experience, are subjects that warrant closer examination.

This article delves into the physiological mechanisms behind cannabis-induced coughing, debunks common myths surrounding its effects, and provides practical strategies for mitigating this common side effect. It is crucial to preface this discussion by acknowledging the varying legal landscapes surrounding cannabis. In the United Kingdom, for instance, the recreational use and purchase of cannabis remain illegal.

Therefore, this article is strictly for informational purposes and is directed towards individuals residing in jurisdictions where cannabis consumption is legal and regulated. It is not intended to promote or encourage cannabis use, but rather to offer insights into a common physiological response associated with its consumption, for those who may legally choose to partake.

‘What about cannabis light?’ you might ask. Well, even in this case we remind you that, although CBD-based products can be legally purchased in the UK, their consumption is still relegated to a grey regulatory area that has yet to be resolved. The moral of the story: yes, you can buy products such as CBD oil, legal weed and CBD hash, but you can’t consume them.

Having said that, let’s get on with the topic of our article!

Understanding the Cannabis Cough

The act of coughing, a seemingly simple reflex, is in fact a complex physiological mechanism designed to protect the delicate airways of the respiratory system. When it comes to cannabis consumption via smoking, coughing frequently emerges as an almost inevitable consequence. This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘weed cough,’ is a subject of both curiosity and sometimes, concern.

To truly understand the cannabis cough, it’s imperative to move beyond anecdotal observations and delve into the underlying biological processes that trigger this response. Moreover, it is crucial to differentiate between the immediate, acute cough experienced during or shortly after cannabis inhalation, and the more chronic ‘smoker’s cough’ that can develop with prolonged and frequent exposure to smoke, regardless of its source. By dissecting the physiological mechanisms, we can begin to separate fact from fiction and gain a clearer picture of what the cannabis cough signifies, and perhaps more importantly, what it does not.

Read also: Does passive marijuana smoke carry its effects?

Deconstructing the Weed Cough: Physiological Mechanisms at Play

To comprehend why cannabis smoke elicits coughing, it is essential to first appreciate the intricate workings of the respiratory system. Our lungs, the cornerstone of this system, are designed for the efficient exchange of gases – primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide – with the external environment. The airways, starting from the trachea and branching into bronchi and bronchioles, are lined with a specialized epithelium. This lining is not merely a passive barrier; it is an active participant in maintaining respiratory health.

A crucial component of this epithelial lining is the presence of cilia – microscopic, hair-like structures that rhythmically beat in a coordinated fashion. These cilia, along with mucus-producing cells, form the mucociliary escalator, a vital defense mechanism. The mucociliary escalator continuously works to trap and expel inhaled particles, pathogens, and irritants, preventing them from reaching the deeper, more sensitive regions of the lungs. When smoke, irrespective of its origin, enters the respiratory tract, it immediately triggers a cascade of reactions.

The heat from the smoke itself can cause thermal irritation, while the particulate matter and gaseous components within the smoke act as direct irritants to the airway epithelium. This irritation disrupts the normal function of the cilia, potentially slowing down or even temporarily paralyzing their beating motion. Simultaneously, the airways respond defensively by increasing mucus production. This is an attempt to trap and neutralize the inhaled irritants and facilitate their removal.

However, the combination of impaired ciliary function and increased mucus can lead to an accumulation of secretions and debris in the airways. The body’s response to this situation is the cough reflex – a forceful expulsion of air from the lungs. This reflex is triggered by sensory nerve endings in the airways that detect irritation and signal the brainstem’s cough center. The cough serves to clear the airways of the accumulated mucus, irritants, and any other foreign material, attempting to restore normal respiratory function.

It is important to recognize that the lungs do not differentiate between the source of the smoke. Whether it’s tobacco smoke, campfire smoke, or cannabis smoke, the fundamental physiological response remains largely the same – irritation, mucus production, and coughing. The intensity of the cough, however, can vary based on several factors, including the concentration of irritants in the smoke, the individual’s sensitivity, and the overall health of their respiratory system. Therefore, understanding the weed cough necessitates acknowledging it as a normal, albeit sometimes uncomfortable, physiological response to inhaled irritants, rather than a unique or inherently harmful phenomenon in itself, particularly in the context of occasional use.

Unraveling the Causes: Why Cannabis Smoke Triggers Coughing

While the fundamental mechanism of coughing in response to smoke is universal, several specific factors contribute to why cannabis smoke, in particular, triggers this reflex. These factors range from the inherent properties of smoke itself to unique components found within cannabis and individual sensitivities. One primary instigator is the irritation caused by smoke and heat. Smoke, by its very nature, is a hot, complex mixture of gases and particulate matter.

When inhaled, this hot smoke directly contacts the sensitive tissues of the throat and lungs, causing thermal and mechanical irritation. This irritation alone is sufficient to trigger the cough reflex in many individuals. Furthermore, the combustion process inherent in smoking cannabis generates a plethora of inhaled irritants and byproducts. Unlike vaping, which heats cannabis to release vapor, smoking involves burning plant material. This combustion is not a clean process; it produces a complex array of chemical compounds, many of which are known irritants and potential toxins.

Particulate matter, tiny solid particles suspended in the smoke, is a significant component. These particles can deposit in the airways, further contributing to irritation and triggering cough. The often-asked question, “Why does weed make you cough up black stuff?” is directly related to these combustion byproducts. The black flecks sometimes expectorated are likely particulate matter from the burning cannabis material, and while perhaps visually disconcerting, are generally not indicative of a serious medical problem in occasional users. However, their presence underscores the irritant nature of cannabis smoke.

Another, often overlooked, factor is allergies and sensitivities to cannabis. While less prevalent than allergies to other substances, cannabis allergies do exist and can manifest in various respiratory symptoms, including coughing. Individuals with pre-existing allergies, or heightened sensitivities to plant-based substances, may be more prone to coughing when exposed to cannabis smoke. These allergic reactions can exacerbate airway inflammation and increase cough frequency and intensity. The potency of the cannabis product itself also plays a role.

High-potency products, such as concentrates like oils and dabs, contain significantly higher concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes. While not irritants in themselves, the sheer volume of vapor or smoke inhaled when consuming these potent products can overwhelm the respiratory system, leading to increased irritation and coughing, especially in individuals unaccustomed to such high concentrations.

Finally, the depth and technique of inhalation significantly impact coughing. Taking deep, forceful inhalations, often referred to as ‘deep drags,’ maximizes the amount of smoke and heat that reaches the deeper airways. This increased exposure to irritants intensifies the cough reflex. Conversely, shallower, more controlled inhalations can reduce the amount of irritants contacting the sensitive tissues, potentially lessening the urge to cough.

It’s crucial to understand that the coughing response is primarily driven by the act of smoking and the irritants produced, rather than the specific cannabinoids like THC or CBD themselves. While cannabinoids and terpenes may contribute to airway irritation in some individuals, the combustion byproducts and heat are the primary culprits behind cannabis-induced coughing.

Mitigating the Cough: Practical Strategies and Home Remedies

One of the most effective preventative measures is to vape instead of smoke. As previously discussed, smoking involves combustion, which produces a complex mixture of irritants and toxins.

Vaping, on the other hand, heats cannabis to a temperature sufficient to vaporize cannabinoids and terpenes, without burning the plant material. This significantly reduces the inhalation of harmful combustion byproducts, resulting in a vapor that is generally cooler and less irritating to the respiratory system. Switching from smoking to vaping can dramatically reduce coughing for many individuals.

Beyond altering the method of consumption, drinking infused teas can offer soothing relief and help mitigate cough symptoms. Warm liquids, in general, are beneficial for soothing irritated throats and loosening mucus. Infused teas, particularly those containing ingredients like lemon and honey, can provide additional therapeutic benefits.

Lemon is a natural antioxidant and can help to reduce inflammation, while honey has demulcent properties that coat and soothe the throat. Adding herbs like thyme and sage, known for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, can further enhance the cough-relieving effects of infused teas.

Another simple yet effective remedy, particularly for nighttime coughs, is to sleep elevated. When lying horizontally, mucus can pool in the sinus passages and upper airways, potentially irritating the lungs and triggering coughing, especially upon waking.

Elevating the head with an extra pillow or two can help to promote drainage of mucus and reduce nighttime coughing. This technique is commonly recommended for cold and flu symptoms and can be equally beneficial for mitigating cannabis-related coughs.

Gargling salt water is a time-tested remedy for sore throats and coughs, particularly wet coughs characterized by mucus production. The warm salt water helps to soothe irritated throat tissues, and the act of gargling creates vibrations and turbulence that can help to dislodge mucus from the throat and airways. Regular salt water gargling can provide significant relief from cough symptoms.

Finally, maintaining adequate hydration and incorporating exercise are crucial for overall respiratory health and cough mitigation. Drinking plenty of water helps to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up and expel from the airways. Exercise, while perhaps counterintuitive when experiencing a cough, can actually be beneficial. Firstly, you’re forced to take deeper breaths, which gives your lungs a workout and spreads the phlegm evenly, encouraging your body to produce less. Sweating can also aid in the elimination of toxins from the body, further supporting respiratory health. Combining these practical strategies and home remedies can significantly reduce cannabis-induced coughing, enhancing comfort and promoting respiratory well-being for cannabis consumers.

Read also: Remedies for a sore throat from smoking

Navigating Cannabis Consumption with Respiratory Awareness

Cannabis-induced coughing, while a common and often benign experience, is a physiological response that warrants attention and understanding. It arises primarily from the respiratory system’s natural defense mechanisms against inhaled irritants, particularly the heat and combustion byproducts inherent in smoking.

It is important to reiterate that this information is provided for educational purposes and is intended for individuals who reside in jurisdictions where cannabis consumption is legal and regulated. It is not intended to encourage or promote cannabis use in areas where it remains illegal, such as the United Kingdom. The aim is to provide factual, science-based information to those who may legally choose to consume cannabis, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding their consumption practices and respiratory well-being.

That’s all folks! We look forward to seeing you in our next articles here on Justbob!

Why Does Weed Make You Cough: takeaways

• Coughing triggered by cannabis smoke is a natural defensive response of the respiratory system to inhaled smoke and heat. The heat from combustion and the particles in the smoke irritate the airway epithelium, leading to an increase in mucus production and activation of the cough reflex. This reaction is similar to what occurs with any type of smoke, regardless of its source.
• Beyond combustion itself, several factors can increase the likelihood and severity of coughing. These include the quality of the cannabis (presence of impurities or pesticide residues), inhalation technique (deep, rapid drags amplify irritation), and individual sensitivity (some people are more prone to lung irritation). High-potency cannabis products, such as concentrates, can also contribute to coughing due to the larger volume of smoke or vapor inhaled.
• To minimize coughing, several practical approaches can be adopted. Switching from smoking to vaporization reduces exposure to combustion byproducts, making inhalation less irritating. Staying well-hydrated, drinking soothing herbal teas (such as those with honey and lemon), and sleeping in an elevated position can help alleviate coughing. Additionally, using a more controlled inhalation technique—avoiding deep, forceful puffs—can reduce airway irritation.

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Why Does Weed Make You Cough: FAQ

Why does cannabis cause coughing?

Cannabis-induced coughing is a physiological response of the respiratory system to inhaling smoke. The heat and particles present in cannabis smoke stimulate nerve endings in the airways, triggering the cough reflex. Additionally, smoke can temporarily impair the function of cilia in the respiratory epithelium, which normally help remove particles and mucus. This reaction is similar to what happens with any type of smoke, including tobacco or campfire smoke.

What is the physiological mechanism behind coughing?

Coughing is a protective reflex of the respiratory system designed to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign particles. It is triggered by sensory nerve receptors in the airways that detect irritation and send signals to the brainstem’s cough center. In response, the diaphragm contracts forcefully, followed by a rapid expulsion of air through the mouth. This process helps remove any substances that could obstruct breathing or cause inflammation, maintaining respiratory health.

How can cannabis-induced coughing be reduced?

To reduce cannabis-induced coughing, several strategies can be effective. Using a vaporizer instead of smoking can help minimize irritation, as vapor is cooler and contains fewer irritants than smoke. Drinking warm liquids, such as herbal teas with honey and lemon, can soothe the throat. Additionally, taking slower, more controlled inhalations instead of deep and forceful ones may help reduce irritation. Staying hydrated and maintaining overall lung health through regular exercise can also support respiratory function.