From joints and pipes to bongs and blunts smoking is the most common way people consume cannabis.

While the high can be an enjoyable and therapeutic experience, you should know the same thing about cigarettes. marijuana smoke can contain irritating chemicals and tar that can cause respiratory issues.

If you’re new to the marijuana world it’s possible that you’re having a hard time navigating the alternatives, and are curious about the pros and cons of every method. This is what you should know.

1. Joints

They’re made by packing cannabis into a rolled newspaper “typically made of hemp, rice, or paper,” according to Stacia Woodcock, PharmD Clinical Cannabis Pharmacist and Dispensary Manager at Curaleaf. It is also possible to put in a filter to help prevent burning your fingers while smoking.

To roll and smoke a cigarette:

  1. Then, break it down using an herb grinder or your fingers. Remove any seeds or stems.
  2. If you want to use a filter, cut out tiny pieces of cardboard (you will need it to fit into the paper you roll it on) to fold “accordion-style” into a tip.
  3. While holding the rolling paper in a long way “hot dog style,” make sure you fill it with crushed weed. Then, place your filter on either side.
  4. Put the paper you have filled with your fingertips and roll it into a shape like a tube or a cone.
  5. Inhale the air from the joint and inhale from the filter.

Be aware that many rolls of paper that are available for sale in the market -in particular those that claim to be fast-burning, bleached, or flavored — contain hazardous chemicals and harmful pollutants, which could damage your lungs. Therefore, opting for rolling papers that are unbleached and flavorless, as well as unrefined, can reduce the risk of being exposed. If you’re truly concerned about exposure to chemicals use a smoking method that is paper-free using a bong or pipe.

2. Blunts

Blunts are usually larger and last longer than a joint and are made in a similar way. The difference is that blunts are made from blunt or cigar wrap rather than rolling paper, there are also glass blunts that are made of glass.

Blunt wraps are made from tobacco leaves, which means they are a source of nicotine. According to a study from 2010 which examined blunts for nicotine, it was found that the substance caused a greater build-up of carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous chemical, in the study subjects’ bloodstream, which led to adverse effects such as nausea dizziness, headaches, and nausea.

3. Pipe

Pipes also referred to as spoons or bowls, are among the most straightforward methods of smoking.

Pipes consist of a hollow bowl as well as the “stem,” and a mouthpiece through which to inhale. Certain pipes also feature the carb hole — an insignificant hole located next to the bowl. You cover it and then open it with your fingers while inhaling in order to remove the pipe from the smoke.

4. Bong

Bongs also known as water pipes, are smoking devices that make use of water to cool and filter smoke. Because the smoke is chilled in this way, smokers tend to take more hits and create more smoke than they do with joints, blunts, or bowls.

Bongs comprise the bowl, as well as a cylinder of glass called a “downstem.” When you blow on the bong, smoke is released down the downstem. The smoke is removed through the water before going up the bong’s neck to the mouthpiece.

Some users believe that bongs are the best way to smoke, “they may not be all that effective at reducing toxins,” says Nicolas Schlienz, Ph.D., Research Director at Cannabis Education organization Realm of Caring.