Hand rolling joints have been a popular option among smokers for years. Because of this rolling method’s popularity, there are many different rolling papers on the market. Those new to rolling may find it confusing to know which one they should use. Are all rolling papers created equal? Is one healthier than the other? And what about sustainability?
We’ll break down the different types of rolling papers on the market and how to choose the healthiest one(s) for you.
What are Rolling Papers?
First, what exactly are rolling papers? They are any type of paper that has been designed specifically for users to encase their favorite product and smoke it.
The three most popular types of rolling papers you’ll find on the market include:
- Rice
- Hemp
- Wood
These papers can also come flavored or unflavored and in different sizes. Selecting the right one for you is really a matter of preference, experience, and availability.
Types of Rolling Papers
Before you can decide what the healthiest rolling paper is, it’s important to know more about the different options:
- Rice rolling papers may not be the best option for beginners. Though they do not influence the taste and don’t outpace your product’s burn, they are a little more delicate than other papers. They are a bit easier to break but are an excellent option for those who have their rolling technique down and want a longer smoking session. However, rice papers often contain additives such as flax or sugar, which may not be a healthy option for some users.
- Hemp rolling papers are part of the hemp trend. Hemp is definitely having a moment, with more and more people looking to use products made from this plant. Hemp papers are typically easy to roll and quite sturdy, however, they do have a slight flavor that may impact your experience. On the plus side, hemp is a very sustainable crop and even improves the soil it is grown in. Some hemp papers may have been processed to give them a different color, so keep that in mind when looking at which rolling paper is right for you.
- Wood rolling papers have long been the go-to option, especially for those new to rolling their own product. Just like regular paper is made from wood, so are these rolling papers. They are typically the thickest paper which makes them easier to roll—an appealing factor for newbies. However, most wood pulp rolling papers have been bleached to give them a lighter color. Because bleach (and potentially other chemicals) have been used, people looking for a more natural paper may need to look elsewhere.
Beyond Paper, Check the Glue
When searching for the healthiest rolling paper, there is one more factor you need to think about besides what the paper is made of: the glue used to stick everything together.
Glue in rolling papers helps keep wraps in place after you’ve finished rolling. They can be made from cellulose sugar, natural gum, or Arabic gum.
Cellulose sugar and natural gum have a glycerol base. Glycerol is used to sweeten food, so it is a sugar. This means that if you have diabetes or live a sugar-free life, these gums aren’t the best options for you. Instead, you’ll want to look for something made with Arabic gum, a more natural and healthier option.
How to Choose the Healthiest Rolling Papers
Now that you know more about the different types of rolling papers out there and the glue that is in them, you are ready to make an informed decision on which rolling papers are the healthiest.
When choosing the healthiest rolling paper for you, be sure to look at the ingredients not only in the paper itself, but also those that were used in the manufacturing process. Was the paper bleached? If so, it may contain some harmful chemicals. Then, look at the glue that is used in the paper. If you are trying to avoid sugar, look for Arabic gum or even make your own homemade rolling paper glue.
Once you’ve looked at these options, you can make an informed choice on what is the healthiest option for you.
Other Factors to Consider
While choosing a healthy rolling paper is essential, you may want to take other factors into consideration as well. Before purchasing your rolling papers online, think about:
- Your experience level – Thinner papers are more difficult for beginners to roll without breakage.
- The taste they have. Do you want a flavored option, or would you prefer to taste only the flavor of the product?
- The size of the paper – Rolling papers come in different sizes. If you aren’t sure which size you need, ask: Your online retailer can help you.
- Their burn – Some papers may go out easier than others as they burn faster than the product. This can be difficult for newbies to navigate. Check out the burn rate each paper offers before purchasing.
- Sustainability – If the Earth’s health is also important to you, check out the footprint producing each type of paper leaves behind. You can find a paper that is not only healthy for you but healthy for the environment as well.
Rolling Papers: In Conclusion
As people continue to increasingly look for more natural products to incorporate into their everyday lives, it’s not surprising that enthusiasts are looking at the health of their rolling papers as well.
While each of the three main types of rolling papers (wood, hemp, and rice) offers its own benefits, wood is typically seen as the unhealthiest of the bunch, thanks to the bleaching process it undergoes. However, wood papers are also seen as the easiest to use.
Keep in mind that you can change your rolling preferences the more experienced you become. While wood may not be the healthiest, it may be the easiest for newbies to start with. Once you’ve become more experienced, you can switch to a healthier option like rice or hemp.
