The cannabis industry is heating up. Last year, the global market was valued at USD $20.5 billion. Bongs, which come in all shapes and sizes, are also catching heat. A long-loved contraption that has served many cannabis connoisseurs worldwide throughout human history, these smoking devices are believed to have originated as far back as 1100 and 1400 CE in Ethiopia. So famous are bongs that many seasoned smokers splash out hundreds of dollars to get an intense hit of cannabinoids!
No matter how much money someone spends on a zong water pipe, the smoking experience depends on one critical stage of preparation: filling up and, of course, cleaning the water chamber. This integral component acts as the source of the reassuring bubbling noise that tickles one’s eardrums as they suck a cone. More importantly, it works as a filter and cools the smoke before it enters the mouth, thus allowing for a smoother, less harsh hit.
But what happens when there’s no water available to fill up a bong? Fortunately, there are some tried-and-tested alternatives.
Benefits of Changing Bong Water Frequently
Aside from improved filtration (clean bong water can filter toxins and unwanted compounds, such as plant residue and ash), regularly changing the water will ensure that each inhaler is packed with flavor. The cleaner the water, or whatever liquid is chosen, the better-preserved cannabis’ flavor will be.
Additionally, bong water should be changed every 2-3 days to extend the glassware’s lifespan. Biofilm can develop within as little as 24 hours, and the longer it is left to rot inside a bong, the harder this slimy residue will be to clean! Getting into the habit of cleaning a bong with isopropyl alcohol and rock salt will help prevent mold and keep glassware looking/functioning well as new.
Best Bong Water Alternatives
Believe it or not, there are numerous alternatives to using plain water in a bong. What’s more, fruity blends could enhance the overall flavor, thus amplifying the smoking experience. The following recommended bong water alternatives can be obtained easily from a local supermarket or even inside the home refrigerator:
- Citrus Water – Putting some freshly squeezed lemon or orange citrus in bong water could make each hit taste better and help prevent resin from building up too quickly. The pleasant scent, yellow/orange appearance, and low gunk-factor make this an appealing choice over typical bong water.
- Cranberry Juice – Replace normal bong water with cranberry juice and prepare to be amazed at the smoothness of each hit! Highly recommended by Leafly, cranberry juice offers a fruity alternative with no artificial additives. Plus, the liquid’s deep red appearance will entice the visual sense.
- Aloe Vera – Fancy a refreshing hit of weed in the morning or before bed? Try aloe vera water, which should be blended into a smooth consistency before adding to a bong’s water chamber. Refrain from using aloe vera water that contains chunks of the plant’s flesh, resulting in the percolators becoming clogged.
- Wine – Pouring wine into a bong won’t make a consumer drunk, but it will add an exciting flavor note to whatever cannabinoid rich mix is crammed into the bowl. Tip: ensure the flavors complement one another by researching the best types of cannabis strains for wine pairing beforehand.
- Gatorade – This American brand specializes in the creation of sports-themed food and drink products. Distributed across more than 80 countries, Gatorade is a globally favored electrolyte-rich beverage that works wonders as a bong water alternative.
- Tea – In all fairness, this bong water alternative is mostly made up of water. Boil some water and infuse it with an aromatic herbal tea before cooling and adding to the water chamber.
- Apple Juice – Last (but by no means least) on the list of the seven best bong water alternatives to make weed taste better is apple juice. When used in a bong, this type of fruit juice can help make even the blandest best seed strains to grow marijuana outdoor taste good! Remember to clean the bong well after use since the natural sugars in apple juice may cause extra residue to accumulate inside.
Conclusion
New and experienced cannabis consumers mustn’t rely on one of the bongs mentioned above water alternatives to amplify their high. Although the liquid can absorb cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) inside a bong, it’s impossible to get “stoned” by drinking it. Cannabinoids are not water-soluble, but they can be infused into oils, honeys, and edibles for a powerful psychoactive experience.
Studies suggest that as much as 20-40% of the THC contained in cannabis smoke can get stuck on the interior of a glass bong, and even more so with bongs that are made of plastic. On that note, it’s worth finding a bong that has been silyl-treated; this will also ensure that the bong liquid does not foam.
When cleaning a bong, it is advisable to set aside at least 30 minutes to get the job done. Initially, the components should be soaked in warm, soapy water for around 15 minutes before a soft bristle brush is used to scrub remnants inside the glass. Finish by rinsing with warm water, leaving the glassware to dry, and refilling with a preferred liquid.
