Every cannabis user has their own favorite way to smoke. Some prefer pipes, some prefer a good bong, and others like something a little bit in-between. That's where bubblers come into the equation.
So, what is a bubbler and why do so many cannabis lovers use them? Let's find out.
What Is a Bubbler?
A bubbler is essentially a miniature bong. They combine the portability of a pipe with the function and look of a full-size bong.
Like a glass pipe, bubblers are lightweight and can often be held with one hand. Like a bong, you're meant to fill a bubbler with water to filter your smoke. Bubblers also have bowl pieces like those found on bongs, which you pull to release the smoke once it's collected.
The mouthpieces on bubblers also differ from piece-to-piece. Some have wide mouthpieces like bongs, while the most portable offerings have narrow mouthpieces like pipes.
Some bubblers -- often the smaller, plastic ones -- have a carb-hole for smoke release rather than relying on the bowl. With a carb-hole, you cover it with your thumb while smoking, then remove your finger to release the smoke.
Bubblers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and are often some of the coolest looking smoking devices you can get. Smokers love them for their portability, their function, and their designs. They're also more discreet than large bongs, making them easy to tuck away when non-smoking company is over.
With the legalization of marijuana in 11 US states, the perception of functional glass art has quickly transformed. What was once a frowned-upon practice is now a celebrated form of expression.
If you love bongs and pipes, you should know about the pioneers that changed the game of glass art. Here are seven of the most well-known, accomplished glass artists.
1. Bob Snodgrass
An inspiration to glass artists across the globe, Bob Snodgrass is known as the "Godfather of Glass." With a title like that, it's no surprise that Snodgrass' pipes and other glass pieces are one-of-a-kinds.
After Snodgrass spotted a pipe in a store display window, his world changed. This pipe called to him, and it was then that he found his new path. Snodgrass would go on to invent many famous techniques for creating glass art, most notably "fuming."
Another invention to thank this legendary glass artist for is the sidecar pipe. When Snodgrass grew tired of his pipe rolling over after being set down, he created a pipe that would remain upright.
Snodgrass is most known for his work with The Grateful Dead. Following the band across the country during their tours, he sold his beautiful glass pieces out of his van alongside his family for decades. This "Godfather of Glass" undoubtedly changed the game for generations of glass artists to come.
Around 40 million US adults have an anxiety disorder. But feelings of anxiety are also on the rise across the whole population. In a 2018 APA poll, 39 percent of Americans reported feeling more anxious than the year before.
Alongside the gradual legalization of weed in the US, this increase has fueled a growing interest in using marijuana for anxiety. Although the link between weed and anxiety isn't fully known, 47 percent of US adults believe that cannabis relieves anxiety.
But are they right - is marijuana good for anxiety? With limited but promising research findings, it looks like weed could offer help for many anxiety sufferers.
Read on to find out more about the link between weed and anxiety.
Not All Weed Is Created Equal
Before we delve further into using marijuana for anxiety, you need to recognize that not all marijuana is the same. First, cannabis contains two main active ingredients: THC and CBD.
Different Cannabis Compounds: THC and CBD
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the mind-altering cannabis compound. This provides the 'head high' that many of you who enjoy hitting back with a Stoned Genie bong will be familiar with.
THC is still an illegal substance in most US states. But it can be used in treatment for a variety of illnesses, including cancer, chronic pain, and anxiety.
CBD (Cannabidiol) is the secondary cannabis compound, providing 'non-psychoactive' relief. While CBD doesn't intoxicate you like THC, it can help with everything from epilepsy to anxiety. And, unlike THC, CBD products are legal throughout the whole US.
Different Cannabis Strains: Sativa and Indica
It's also important to understand the different effects of Sativa, Indica, and hybrid strains of cannabis. One of our top weed starter tips is to select a strain that suits your personality and provides the effects you want.
Sativa strains have a higher THC to CBD ratio. Sativas often provide a euphoric head high, increased creativity, energy, and focus. In comparison, Indica strains have a higher CBD to THC ratio. Indicas encourage total mind and body relaxation and can induce sleep.
Hybrids fuse both Indica and Sativa strains to produce a more personalized effect. These are great for those who know how specific plants affect their body and mind.