Botanical Dosage Forms: Inhalation

Ready to explore the world of botanical inhalation? In Australia, dried herb, inhalation cartridges, and metered dose inhalers (MDIs) are key tools for fast, tailored delivery of botanical medicines. Each option offers unique benefits and important safety considerations - let’s break them down.

What Are the Benefits of Inhalation?

The standout advantage of inhalation is rapid onset. Inhaled botanicals reach the bloodstream quickly via the lungs, with users often feeling effects within minutes—ideal for those who need immediate, on-demand support. Dosing is straightforward and can be titrated gently - start low and build to the effect that suits. Many users appreciate the predictability and quick relief inhalation brings compared to slower-acting oral options.

What Is Dried Herb and What Are Inhalation Cartridges?

Dried Herb (Flower): Plant material that has carefully grown, dried, and cured for medical use. In Australia, this herb is intended for vaporisation (not smoking) using a registered medical device listed with the TGA.
Inhalation Cartridges: Pre-filled cartridges or pods containing concentrated botanical extracts designed for use with vaporisers known as “batteries”. These offer discreet and easy portability and controlled dosing.
Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs): MDIs are pressurised inhalers (“puffers”) that deliver a precise, pre-measured amount of aerosolised botanical medicine, just like those used in respiratory care. With each actuation, the device dispenses an exact dose, helping to ensure consistency, convenience, and minimal wastage. MDIs are valued for user-friendly design and portability but must be used as directed for full benefit.

How Do You Use Both Types of Medicine Safely?

All inhalation products should be used according to TGA and device guidelines for optimal safety:

Dried Herb (Flower): Only use with registered, medical-grade vaporisers at the manufacturer-recommended temperature. Avoid combustion (smoking), as this generates harmful by-products not suited for therapeutic use.
Cartridges and MDIs: Use with approved vaporiser systems or inhaler devices; follow dose instructions strictly. Cartridges should be properly installed and MDIs shaken and primed as instructed. Begin with the lowest recommended dose and titrate slowly.

Always follow healthcare practitioner guidance and check your device regularly for cleanliness and correct function. Never modify devices or use products not intended for medicinal purposes.

What Are the Drawbacks of Inhalation Methods?

While inhalation provides fast relief, effects may wear off sooner, sometimes only lasting 1-3 hours. Dose titration requires more frequent monitoring, and devices must be maintained for safety and efficacy. Not all patients are suited to inhalation, such as those with respiratory challenges - and, as with any medicine, interactions and sensitivities should be considered. Improper device use or excessive heat can also degrade active compounds and increase exposure to unwanted by-products.

Summary

Dried herb and inhalation cartridges deliver some of the quickest relief within botanical therapy, ideal for routine titration and fast symptom support. Used properly, especially with TGA-approved devices, these formats are simple, practical, and tailored for those seeking rapid, customizable dosing. As always, review individual needs and device guidelines for safe, effective use - and always follow the guidance of your healthcare practitioner.

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References

Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (2019) ‘Safety statement on metered dose inhalers’. Available at: https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-12/metered_dose_inhalers_safety_statement_2019.pdf
MacCallum, C.A., Lo, L.A., Pistawka, C.A., Christiansen, A. and Boivin, M. (2024) ‘Cannabis vaporisation: Understanding products, devices and risks’, Drug and Alcohol Review, 43(5), pp. 1103–1115. Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/dar.13800