Herbal cigarettes and electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes. Both are often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional tobacco smoking, but how do they really stack up? If you are anything like me, you have to wonder which, if either, is the better choice. Today, we are diving into the facts to help clear the air.
Understanding Herbal Cigarettes
Herbal cigarettes are made with different herbal mixtures, flowers, and other plants. Most of them are tobacco-free. Generally, they are also nicotine-free and, therefore, are not addictive. To this end, they would appear more attractive in case one doesn’t want to get into dependence on nicotine.
Exploring Electronic Cigarettes
E-cigs heat a liquid—usually containing nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals into an aerosol that you inhale. Because they do not burn tobacco, there are less toxic chemicals being produced than with regular cigarettes. Because of this decrease in poisonous chemicals, some consider the e-cigarette to be a less harmful option.
Making a choice: Herbal or Electronic?
If you are anything like me, you want to minimise health risks while managing nicotine cravings or the habit of smoking. Well, this is where it gets interesting:
Nicotine Content:
Generally, herbal cigarettes do not contain nicotine and hence have no addictive features, while e-cigarettes do, in that they may include nicotine in them, and it is well known to be an addictive component.
Chemical Exposure:
While e-cigarettes expose users to fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes, they still contain substances that can be harmful. Herbal cigarettes, though free from nicotine, produce tar and carbon monoxide when burned, which is dangerous to your health.
Smoking Cessation:
Many also use e-cigarettes as an aid to help them stop smoking traditional cigarettes by gradually reducing the amount of nicotine ingested. This may risk their becoming perpetually dependent on nicotine. Herbal cigarettes don’t tackle nicotine addiction but help somewhat with the behavioural part of smoking.
The Bottom Line
So, here it is. There are considerations with both herbal cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you are trying to quit smoking, this is one important aspect to consider. Consult with your doctor for more specific advice about your situation. Better health is the goal, and knowing the options is one great step.
