Hemp Wick & How To Use It

When it’s time to kick back and enjoy your marijuana, if you’re smoking, you’ll need something to light it. Of course, you can always rely on your typical lighter. But, sometimes you might want to venture further afield and get a bit creative. And when you do, it’s important to know that what you’re using is good at its job and as safe as possible.

This is how hemp wick came onto the scene.

For many people, hemp wick is the health-conscious and environmental-conscious product of choice. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional lighters and matches, and have become a staple in the cannabis community.

So, let’s learn more about them and how to use them.

 

What is Hemp Wick?

Hemp wick has been used for thousands of years, going as far back as ancient Egypt in some cases. These days, they’re manufactured for a variety of purposes including smoking, candle-making and crafting.

It’s made from a length of hemp twine with a coating of beeswax. This helps the twine act as a slow-burning candlestick. Hemp wick is recommended for use with bongs and pipes and it’s said to be a healthier alternative to lighters.

This is because it’s better to have hemp in your body than the butane that lighter fluid will produce. For instance, when smoking in a bowl, using lighter fluid could result in you inhaling toxic gases from the combusting butane. Burning hemp wick mitigates this problem.

 

How to Use a Hemp Wick

Once you’ve selected your desired hemp wick, using it is the easiest part. You’ll simply want to light it up. This can be done through any method you like – a match, a lighter or anything else you have up your sleeve.

Once that is done, you can follow these simple steps to light a joint:

1. Angle the hemp wick at a 40° angle up or down. This will help you stay in control of the burn.
2. Twist the joint prior to lighting to ensure an even flame.
3. Check the hemp wick to ensure you avoid dripping beeswax.
4. Ensure you put the hemp wick out after your joint is lit.
5. Smoke your joint.

The process is similar for other lighting methods. The main thing to ensure is that you’re in control of the hemp wick and its flame, and that you absolutely remember to extinguish the flame when you’re done with it. Otherwise, it’s smooth sailing.

 

What Are the Benefits of Using a Hemp Wick?

There are a number of benefits that come from switching to hemp wick, but here’s some of the main pros…

 

Hemp wick is strong

Despite its appearance, hemp wick is surprisingly strong – 10 times stronger than cotton, in fact. So, this makes it a very reliable tool for lighting. It will hold up and last longer than you might expect.

 

Hemp wick does not release any poisonous fumes

So, when you’re using hemp wick with a bowl, there should be no possibility of inhaling toxic gases. This makes it a healthier alternative to traditional lighters. So, if you’re health-conscious or have sensitive respiratory systems, you may want to consider hemp wick.

 

It is sustainable

Hemp is known to be one of the most sustainable crops you can grow. It takes up less land than most plants, needs less water, grows fast and naturally resists insects. Not only that, but hemp can actually improve the soil it grows in. So, it’s no surprise that hemp wick is a go-to product for any eco-friendly customers.

 

It’s stiff but still pliable

This is exactly what you want from a lighting product! Hemp wick’s wax coating allows you to bend and shape it as you please. And it will stay that way. This makes it an easy tool to use.

 

It combusts at low temperatures

Hemp wick doesn’t rely on gas, unlike butane lighters. This means that your marijuana bud won’t burn as fast when using hemp wick. So, you can be happy knowing you’ll get longer, more flavourful hits from your joint.

 

What Are the Disadvantages of Using a Hemp Wick?

Now, we’ve covered why hemp wick is a fantastic product to consider, but it’s not without its flaws. While the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages for many people, here’s what you should know…

 

Lighting hemp wick takes practice

Using a lighter is easy and intuitive. The same can’t always be said for hemp wick. Some people pick it up easily but for many, lighting a hemp wick “properly” takes practice. Those with poor hand-eye coordination may suffer the most in this area.

 

They can be difficult to find

While hemp wicks are increasingly popular, it can sometimes be difficult to find them at local stores and dispensaries. However, you can always take your search online if your store doesn’t stock it. Visit our accessories menu to find our hemp wick products at your closest location.

 

Hemp wicks have a strong odor

For some people, this can be a big down side. The odour hemp wick produces is quite pungent and can be difficult to disguise. So, if you’re looking to be a bit more discrete, this might not be the product for you.

 

Hemp wicks are a little inconvenient for travel

Taking your smoking experience on the road isn’t uncommon. But, carrying a spool around isn’t the most enticing thought for some. As such, people often leave hemp wick at home, or opt for cutting a section to take with them. We’d recommend always carrying a spare lighter if you’re opting for the second one.

 

Will a hemp wick work for you?

The popularity of hemp wick is growing by the day, so it’s definitely worth considering whether this product will be useful for you. Perhaps you’d feel better trying out hemp wick before you’re set on it.

Luckily, whether you’re using hemp wick or a traditional lighting method, it won’t break the bank! So, you have plenty of time to figure out what works for you.