The electronic cigarette also called e-cigarette is an alternative to regular cigarettes. It is a healthier device, it does not require the use of tobacco. The latter is replaced by a special liquid commonly called e-liquid. In addition, opting for an electronic cigarette is a solution that can significantly reduce the consumption of substances harmful to health.
How an electronic cigarette works
Generally speaking, the electronic cigarette is a tool powered by electric current. Thereafter, it produces a heating steam. This steam will be inhaled by the user in the same way that he inhales smoke from a regular cigarette. Some smokers enjoy the hit at the throat, on the other hand others prefer the flavor of the vapors produced by the e-cigarette. However, these electronic cigarettes are not considered medicines or treatments. They are also not smoking cessation aids, such as patches or chewing gum. It is a consumer product created specifically for "steaming".
The components of e-liquid
The liquid is the main component of an electronic cigarette. It is composed of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). These compounds are used in varying doses. Propylene glycol is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It is characterised by its ability to correctly transport flavours. However, in combination with nicotine, PG will accentuate the effects of throat passage or hit. While vegetable glycerin is a common substance in food and medicines. It is slightly sweet and quite thick. Therefore, it is used as a thickener and emulsifier. In the electronic cigarette, VG allows to produce a lot of steam. Thus, apart from PG and VG, the e-cigarette is also composed of flavorings and nicotine.
The e-cigarette and health risks
Since its legal sale and until now, the risks associated with regular and prolonged use of the electronic cigarette is still little known. However, according to experts, the irritating and toxic effects of e-cigarettes are significantly lower than those of tobacco. It should be noted that for smokers, smoking is often the cause of cancer. This is due to the fact that tobacco contains carcinogenic substances such as benzene, arsenic and chromium. Thus, for people who switch to electronic cigarettes, the health risks are reduced. Thus, the PG and VG, the main components of the e-liquid are neither toxic nor carcinogenic. On the other hand, the E-cigarette is still prohibited to pregnant women, people sensitive to nicotine or suffering from cardiovascular disorders.