The Dangers of Moldy Marijuana and How to Prevent It
Smoking moldy marijuana can be very dangerous and in extreme cases cause death. Those at the greatest risk are people with immune system issues, asthma, or respiratory conditions. Moldy marijuana is more common than many would expect and can occur when there is enough moisture for mold to breed on buds and leaves. Mold can thrive on buds that still contain moisture in them and are packaged, cured, or stored in air-tight containers, which create perfect conditions for mold growth. Our MMJ doctors in Colorado Springs want to help you keep your medical marijuana medically viable and not dangerous to your health.
The most common effects associated with smoking moldy marijuana can include flu-like symptoms and breathing conditions, as well as the following:
- Heart palpitations
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Increased trouble breathing
- Aspergilloma – Mold growth in the lungs
- Pneumonitis – Inflammation of the walls of the alveoli in the lungs
It is important to be aware of these serious health problems that can occur with inhaling moldy marijuana and equally important to know how to avoid them by being able to detect mold on marijuana. Mold is often difficult to see with the naked eye, especially if it has not had time to spread, but an indication of mold can be black spots, dark green spots, white and grayish stringy matter, or other unusual coloring. The best tool to use to detect mold is a black light. Mold spores will appear as a distinctive green hue under a black light. Another indication of moldy marijuana is its smell, such as a musty or unpleasant smell.
Mold needs just 15% moisture to thrive and survive. The best way to prevent mold on marijuana is to make sure it is completely dried out before storing it. If stored in air-tight containers to keep it fresh, make sure you open the container at least once a day to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent moisture build up. Use extreme caution if you are attempting to rehydrate dried out marijuana. Water obviously increases moisture and the popular method of using orange peels can create very fertile breeding environments for mold. If you suspect mold, or want to be as safe as possible, put marijuana on a baking sheet in an oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, which will kill some of the most common strains of mold.
