CRAFTING YOUR OWN SMOKEABLE HERBAL BLENDS

– no, not that kind of herb –

I can tell you're confused. “Boy, I'd like to create my own herbal blends,” you say, “how do I start?”

Well, before we begin, let's clarify that the herbs I'll be discussing are literally that – herbs. Plants. Things like Peppermint, Marshmallow, and more. Over 1500 plants have been documented throughout history as being smoked for various reasons. Some repelled insects, some promoted a healthy body and lungs, and even others were used for warfare. Partaking in the activity of breathing in a mixture of methodically chosen herbs can create a plethora of different moods and awaken just as many emotions and senses.

Today, Smoking herbal blends isn't limited to rolling your own...we have endless tobacco pipes made of all different materials and you can experiment with herbal vape liquids.

***Keep in mind that no matter what you're smoking...it's still smoking. It lessens the amount of oxygen taken into your lungs and ups your exposure to carbon monoxide...which isn't really the best thing for you. However, many people seem to be praising smokable herbs as being useful for lessening tobacco/cigarette usage.***

DO NOT use any herb in an herbal smoking blend that you are allergic to or unless you know FOR SURE that it is safe to use for smoking/ingesting.

__________________________________________________________

LET'S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS, NOW!

What goes into making an herbal blend? Well, just like essential oils, a carrier/base herb is first. Next come in your herb(s) which have a specific supportive/spiritual/emotional role. Lastly come the flavouring herb(s). Sometimes, a fourth element is added to mixtures in order to add weight/denisty to the mix – allowing the characteristics of the smoke to be more like tobacco.

Let's break down these essential components, shall we?

The Base – ideally this fella will be light in weight. If you need a suggestion – Mullein, Red Raspberry, and Damiana make great base herbs – use all or whatever combo you want!

Herbs That Support You – Do some research for the herbs right for you and the things you'd like to treat/enhance/etc. I'll help you out, below, but there are so many options that I couldn't hope to cover them all here without writing a novel.

For lung health, think about using

• Horehound
• Mullein
• Hyssop
• Thyme
• Marshmallow
• Lobelia
• For nervous system support consider
• Skullcap
• Passionflower
• Mugwort
• Hops
• Catnip
• Rose
• Damiana

Flavouring – an important component in my opinion, one which ads a whole other level to the experience of smoking your herbal blend.

Some good ideas for tasties:

• Angelica
• Peppermint
• Spearmint
• Monarda
• Lavender
• Anise

Lastly, let's add some body – Sometimes mixtures don't have the weight and smoothness certain heavier herbs, like tobacco, have. Some herbs that work well in adding some density to your blends include:

• Uva ursi
• Willow Bark
• Blackberry Leaf or Root

Now you have all the base ideas to create your own unique Herbal Blend! The ratio of your ingredients is completely up to and should be a personal choice. One formula that might work as a jumping off point is:

• 2 tbsp base herb(s)
• 1 tbsp of your supporting herbs
• ½ tbsp of your flavouring herb

__________________________________________________________

You can look up endless recipes that go even more in-depth to calculate your specific blend – which I HIGHLY recommend doing – have fun with your concoction!

Many companies sell already-made mixtures as well, if you'd like to try your hand at herbal smoking before making your own. The choice is yours for this one-of-a-kind experience.