Can you still smoke moldy weed?

Smoking moldy weed is something you definitely want to avoid. It contains potentially harmful pathogens and can turn your stash into a nasty experience. Maybe you've wondered, “Is smoking moldy weed really that bad?” Well, let's break it down, so you can protect yourself and your lungs from any unpleasant surprises.

What is moldy weed?

Moldy weed is exactly what it sounds like - cannabis that’s been infected by mold. It usually happens when your bud is exposed to a substantial amount of moisture or is stored in an environment that is damp such as a refrigerator. Not only does it look and smell bad, but it’s also harmful for you to smoke.

Common types of mold found in cannabis

The most common types of mold you will see on cannabis are Aspergillus, Botrytis (aka bud rot), and Penicillium. These sneaky fungi love damp, dark environments, and can spread through your stash without you even realizing it.

How mold grows on weed

Mold spores are naturally present in the air, so even the best-cured cannabis can become moldy if you don’t make sure your buds are dried and cured properly. Mold needs moisture and warmth to survive, so if your weed gets wet or isn’t properly dried, mold can quickly take hold. Once mold develops it spreads like wildfire and in an enclosed space such as a grow tent, once it develops, the spores will quickly spread to your other plants with the help of your fans and extractors and once it has spread, the problem continues to multiply out of control.

Signs to identify mold on cannabis

It’s not always easy to spot mold right away, but a few telltale signs can help. Look for fuzzy white or gray spots on the buds. Sometimes mold will give the weed a musty smell, like a damp basement or old socks. If your weed doesn’t smell like fresh herb, it’s probably not good to smoke.

Is smoking moldy weed dangerous?

Smoking moldy weed can be dangerous depending on the type of mold and how much mold there is. You might think, “Oh, I’ll just smoke around the mold,” but that’s a bad idea. Mold releases spores that can enter your lungs, leading to some pretty serious health risks.

Health risks of smoking moldy weed

Breathing in mold spores can cause respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, or even infections. If you already have asthma or allergies, smoking moldy weed could trigger a severe reaction. In extreme cases, mold exposure can lead to infections that affect your immune system.

Symptoms of mold exposure from cannabis

If you’ve smoked moldy weed, you might experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, nausea, or chest pain. You may also develop flu-like symptoms, such as coughing or shortness of breath. If you feel any of these symptoms after smoking, stop immediately and seek medical advice.

What happens when you smoke moldy weed?

When you smoke moldy weed, the mold spores get into your lungs, which can cause all kinds of problems, from mild irritation to serious infections. Even if you don’t feel sick right away, the long-term effects can be harmful, especially if you have underlying health issues.

Can you salvage moldy weed?

I hate to break it to you, but moldy weed is a lost cause. Once mold takes hold, there’s really no way to save it without risking your health. It’s better to toss it out and avoid the risks. If you find mold in your grow room and it has not spread you may be able to save the rest of your plants if you are close enough to harvest time and able to cut the schedule short, harvest early and cut off the moldy parts.

Is there any safe way to use moldy weed?

Nope. Mold is dangerous, and once it’s there, it’s impossible to get rid of it safely. Smoking, vaping, or even making edibles with moldy weed can expose you to harmful spores.

Why you shouldn't wash mold off cannabis

Some people think they can just wash mold off cannabis and it’ll be fine. Don’t do that. Washing only spreads the mold around and doesn’t remove the spores. Plus, you’ll be left with wet weed, which only makes the mold problem worse.

What to do if you discover mold in your stash

If you find mold in your stash, toss it. It’s not worth the risk. Clean out the container or bag where you stored the weed, and make sure any new stash is kept in a cool, dry place to avoid mold in the future.

How to prevent mold on cannabis

Preventing mold is all about keeping your weed dry and properly stored. With a little care, you can avoid mold altogether.

Proper storage methods to avoid mold

Store your weed in airtight containers, like glass jars with sealed lids, and keep them in a cool, dark place. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mold to grow. You also want to check the humidity levels—around 55-62% is ideal for cannabis storage.

How to spot mold early during cannabis growth

If you’re growing your own weed, keep an eye out for signs of mold as your plants mature. Mold often starts on the lower leaves or inside dense buds. Good airflow, proper humidity levels, and trimming can help prevent mold before it ruins your crop.

Best ways to store cannabis long-term

For long-term storage, keep your weed in a cool, dark place and use humidity control packs to maintain the right moisture levels. Vacuum-sealing your stash can also help keep mold at bay if you plan to store it for months.

How to dispose of moldy weed safely

If you’re stuck with moldy weed, you need to get rid of it properly. Tossing it in the trash might seem like the easiest way, but there’s a better method.

Why proper disposal is important

Moldy weed can still release spores, which can spread to other plants or surfaces. It’s important to dispose of it in a way that prevents mold from spreading to other cannabis products or affecting the environment.

Steps to safely get rid of moldy weed

To safely dispose of moldy weed, seal it in a plastic bag and throw it in the trash. If you’re growing weed, you can compost it, but make sure it’s in a spot far away from your grow area to avoid contamination.

FAQs

What happens if you accidentally smoke moldy weed?

You could experience respiratory issues, nausea, and headaches. Stop smoking and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

Can you save weed that has a little mold on it?

No, once mold is present, it’s not safe to use. Toss it to avoid health risks.

How do you tell if weed is moldy?

Look for white or gray fuzz on the buds, and check for a musty smell.

Can you get sick from moldy weed?

Yes, inhaling mold spores can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.

What does moldy weed smell like?

Moldy weed usually smells musty, like damp clothes or an old basement.

So, can you smoke moldy weed? Absolutely not! While it might be tempting to salvage your stash, it’s just not worth the health risks. Keep an eye on your buds, store them properly, and always toss moldy weed when you find it. Stay safe and enjoy your cannabis the right way - mold-free!