The use of medicinal plants, also known as phytotherapy, has been gaining popularity as people seek alternative and natural remedies for various health conditions. Throughout history, medicinal herbs have been utilised by healers from diverse cultures, passing down their knowledge of healing properties from generation to generation. In modern times, phytotherapists continue this ancient tradition, using the wisdom of the past to select effective natural medicines. In this article, we will explore the world of aromatherapy and herbal inhalation and discover how modern devices like dry herb vape can enhance phytotherapy.
Understanding Phytotherapy and Aromatherapy
Historically, aromatherapy dates back to ancient times when primitive societies revered fire and smoke, observing their various effects on people. They discovered that different plant-derived smokes had the power to relax, invigorate, or aid the sick within the community. As time passed, healers and those knowledgeable in healing smoke began using herbs for spiritual purposes, establishing connections with natural forces. These practices eventually evolved into using medicinal, aromatic plants to create extracts and concentrates.
Today, aromatherapy is considered a branch of clinical medicine and an alternative therapy that harnesses the healing properties of volatile aromatic substances for the human body. It is widely used for preventing and treating various infectious diseases, easing neurosis, depression, stress, and insomnia, and relieving physical pain like headaches.
Essential oils are the main agents of aromatherapy, extracted from aromatic plants through various methods like steam distillation, hydrodistillation, solvent extraction, cold pressing, and liquefied gas extraction. One way to get the most out of herbs is to use a vaporizer.
What is a Vaporizer?
A vaporizer is a vaping device that heats plants to a temperature where they vaporise but do not burn. As a result, steam contains the active substances of plants but does not contain tar, ash, and other harmful combustion products.
The invention of the vaporizer falls in the 90s of the last century in Amsterdam. Bill Amato, nicknamed “The Eagle”, created a huge glass ball with tubes – the prototype of today’s vaporizers. He borrowed the heating technology from the ancient Egyptians, who heated the stones to maintain the temperature. After showing the world his creation, Bill and his vaporizer became legendary.
Until the end of his days, Bill appeared with the device at various exhibitions. And he is still considered the “Godfather of Vaporizers”.
This invention revolutionised the smoking accessory industry and gave rise to phytotherapy.
The Advantages of Vaporizers for Aromatherapy and Phyto Inhalations
Even though vaporizers have many modifications and differ externally and constructively, they all operate according to the same scheme. They offer one of the safest and most effective ways to inhale aromatherapy herbs and plant extracts.
Unlike smoking, dry herb vapes do not burn the plant material or emit harmful smoke or toxins, providing only pure and fragrant vapour infused with biologically active plant substances. These devices operate by heating the plant material in a chamber, causing thermal evaporation of the active substances. The resulting vapour contains aromatic plant molecules, which the user inhales, reaping the therapeutic benefits without getting harmful combustion products.
One significant advantage of vaporizers is their efficiency and economy. Inhaled phyto essences and extracts require much smaller amounts of herbal remedies than other administration methods. Additionally, the effects occur within minutes as the volatile fractions of the herbal extract are rapidly absorbed by the lungs and enter the bloodstream, influencing various organs and tissues.
Selecting the Right Vaporizer
Today’s dry herb vapes are versatile and can vaporise a wide range of herbs and concentrates. There are two main types of vaporizers:
- Desktop vaporizers. Large, powerful vaping devices plug into the mains and sit on a table or floor. They have a high heating temperature and produce a large volume of vapour, making them suitable for home use or group vaping. Reputable brands like Storz & Bickel produce some of the best stationary models.
- Portable vaporizers. Small, lightweight vaping devices that run on batteries and can fit in your pocket or bag. They have low to medium heat and produce moderate vapour, making them ideal for personal use or outdoor and travel vaping.
Important Considerations When Buying a Vaporizer
Regardless of the type of vaporizer chosen, there are several key criteria to keep in mind when making a purchase:
- Cup volume: Look for a vaporizer with a cup volume that can hold at least 0.2 grams of herbs. This amount should be sufficient for a single use, avoiding the need to heat the vaporizer multiple times within the same cycle and prolonging battery life.
- Construction: The materials used in the vaporizer should be safe, and the airway must be completely isolated from internal parts and electronics.
- Battery capacity: For portable vaporizers, models with a capacity of at least 1800 mAh are recommended. This ensures enough power for 5-6 vaping cycles without worrying about the device running out of charge at critical moments.
- Temperature adjustment: When choosing a vaporizer, it’s essential to consider its ability to accurately control and regulate temperature, as different plants release their beneficial substances most efficiently at specific evaporation temperatures. Choose a vaporizer that allows you to adjust the operating temperature within the range of 220-245°C.
Precautionary Measures
Using medicinal plants and essential oils correctly ensures their effectiveness and safety. When using a vaporizer, start with small doses to avoid potential adverse reactions and adjust as needed. Pay close attention to the quality of the plants and oils used and their concentrations to prevent potential overdoses.
Avoid self-medication – herbal medicine should only be used under the guidance of a certified therapist. Seeking professional advice and supervision, especially for serious diseases, is essential, as herbal medicine only complements conventional treatments.
Conclusion
Phytotherapy, combined with vaporizers for aromatherapy and herbal inhalation, presents a natural and effective approach to healing and preventive care. The age-old wisdom of herbal medicine, coupled with modern science and technology, allows us to tap into the abundant healing power of nature. However, responsible and informed use of medicinal herbs is key to harnessing their benefits while avoiding potential risks. Always consult a qualified practitioner to ensure safe and effective phytotherapy. By embracing the gifts of nature and utilising them wisely, we can enhance our well-being and improve our overall quality of life.