Bamboo bongs have a long history in Thailand, where they are commonly used for smoking various herbs. The use of bamboo for crafting smoking devices dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in Thai culture. Bamboo bongs were and are still used to this day by indigenous people. Bamboo is abundant in Thailand. The naturally grown material provides a readily available and easily workable raw commodity for crafting bamboo bongs. Bamboo’s naturally hollow structure makes it ideal for creating consumption devices that could effectively channel the smoke. Thai bamboo bongs are notorious for their modern ingenuity while simultaneously connecting you to nature while you consume cannabis.
In the central and northern parts of Thailand, the rainy season typically occurs from May to October, with the southwest monsoon bringing heavy rainfall. During this period, these regions can receive anywhere from 1,000 to 2,500 millimeters of rain annually. Bamboo requires adequate moisture to grow well. While some species of bamboo tolerate drought conditions (why it grows affluently throughout southern California), most prefer consistently moist soil. Ideal rainfall for bamboo cultivation varies depending on the species but generally ranges from 1,200 to 2,500 millimeters annually. Thailand is the perfect climate to cultivate bamboo year round. The species of bamboo that grows in Thailand grows the strongest and has the best node structure because of its ability to absorb adequate moisture throughout the entirety of the cultivation process.
Cannabis is believed to have been grown and used in Thailand since ancient times. Historical evidence suggests that cannabis was used for medicinal purposes, as well as in religious and spiritual rituals by indigenous peoples in the region. In traditional Thai medicine, cannabis was used to treat a variety of ailments, including pain, inflammation, digestive issues, and insomnia. It was often prescribed by traditional healers and herbalists to alleviate symptoms and promote overall well-being. Bamboo bongs are a popular choice in Thailand because of its ability to extract certain flavors out of the cannabis plant. Bamboo provides a natural flavor to the smoke. Glass adds an unnatural flavor that can suppress you from being able to enjoy the full spectrum of cannabinoids. These cannabinoids that come from consuming with bamboo are more likely to have a stronger effect.
The recreational use of consuming cannabis has been legal in Thailand since 2018. This has allowed for the Cannabis industry to grow and provide a variety of new products. If you were walking around on the streets of Bangkok you would find many patrons smoking out of a bamboo bong. The climate, cultural significance of bamboo, and the legalization of cannabis has promoted the innovation of bamboo water bongs. When Thai artisans decide to harvest a stalk the quality of the bamboo is always tested for quality. With a wide variety of bamboo species to choose from, it is important for the artisan to understand that the bamboo must withstand heat and pressure.The engineering behind Thai bamboo bongs is the most developed out of any country in Southeast Asia because of the accessibility to strong Bamboo and having a legal market. Thai bamboo bongs will continue to gain popularity as cannabis starts to evolve from an illegal substance to a plant that can heal your body and spirit.