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Pen Hookah: A Puff of Convenience or a Pandora’s Box?

India has been enthralled with the simple hookah for generations because to its beautiful decorations and fragrant smoke. However, a smaller, more covert cousin called the pen hookah has surfaced in recent years. Is the portable and convenient hookah experience offered by this pocket-sized device all smoke and mirrors? Let’s take a closer look at pen hookahs, their benefits, drawbacks, and the Indian social environment that surrounds them.

1.What is pen Hookah?

Sometimes called e-hookahs, vape pen hookahs, or shisha pens, are battery-operated electronic devices that simulate smoking a conventional hookah and look like big pens. e-hookahs use a heating element to vaporise flavoured e-liquid or nicotine salts, replacing tobacco, charcoal, and water.

2.How Does it works?

• Cartridge or Refillable Tank: Pre-filled cartridges or refillable tanks with e-liquid are commonly used with pen hookahs. These drinks are available in an extensive range of flavours, ranging from traditional mint and grape to more unusual choices like mango lassi or bubblegum.
• Atomizer: The pen hookah’s atomizer is its brains. When engaged, a heating element within it vaporises the e-liquid.
• Battery: Rechargeable batteries are used to power pen hookahs. Depending on the model and usage, battery life might vary, but most last for a few hours between charges.
• Mouthpiece: The vapour is inhaled through the mouthpiece. Usually constructed of metal or plastic, it is intended to be comfortable to grasp. Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is where you inhale the vapor. It’s usually made of plastic or metal and designed to be comfortable to hold.

The battery powers the heating element, which vaporises the e-liquid in the cartridge or tank, when you inhale through the mouthpiece. After passing through the atomizer, the vapour enters your mouth.

These are widely used because of their flavour range, portability, and ease of use. However, since they frequently include nicotine and other dangerous substances, it’s crucial to be aware of the possible health dangers involved with using them.

3. Following are some other points with pen hookahs to remember?

• Nicotine: Despite claims to the contrary, many pen hookahs still contain nicotine, which is extremely addictive and detrimental to young brains.
• Other substances: Vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol, and flavourings are a few examples of other dangerous substances that may be present in e-liquids. We don’t yet know how breathing these substances will affect our health in the long run.
• Legality: Depending on the nation and area, pen hookahs are or are not legal. It is permitted in India to smoke and use tobacco products up to the age of eighteen, and this also goes for pen hookahs.

4. Some alternatives of Pen Hookahs:

Instead of focusing on e-hookahs, I can suggest some safer and healthier alternatives you might enjoy:

• Herbal hookahs: These provide a similar smoking experience without the nicotine by using shisha manufactured from natural herbs and fruits. Afzal, Al-Fakher, and Hookah Mahal are a few well-known brands.
• Vape pens: These gadgets evaporate e-liquids, which are available in a variety of flavours and provide a comparable flavour without the smoke or tobacco. In India, trustworthy brands to consider are Innokin, Vaporesso, and Smok.
• Alternatives without nicotine: For individuals who want the flavour and oral fixation elements without the nicotine, there are a few possibilities. Think of gum, mints, or pouches without nicotine.

5. Advantages of E hookahs:

• Portability: E hookahs are more compact and lightweight than regular hookahs, making them easy to carry in a pocket or purse. This makes them perfect for using when you’re out and about, whether you’re at a music festival, hanging out at a cafe, or visiting friends.
• Discretion: Gone are the days when big, gaudy hookahs attracted odd looks. Because E hookahs are delicate and unobtrusive, you can enjoy your hookah session without drawing too much attention to yourself.
• Ease of use: Filling and using a E hookah is a breeze. The majority of devices do not require hoses, coals, or water bowls; instead, they only require pre-filled cartridges or e-liquids.
• Variety of flavors: E hookahs come in a wide variety of flavours, ranging from traditional mint and grape to unusual fruit concoctions and rich sweets. This keeps things interesting and accommodates a wide range of preferences.

6. Disadvantages of pen hookahs:

• Health concerns: E hookahs carry some health dangers, while being touted as a less dangerous option to cigarettes. Even in flavoured variations, the nicotine level can cause respiratory problems and become addicted. Moreover, it’s yet unclear what consequences breathing in chemicals and flavourings will have in the long run.
• Battery life: Because E hookahs run on batteries, a dead battery might end your hookah session quite quickly. To prevent disappointment, always keep your device charged or bring a power bank.
• Cost: E hookahs may end up costing more in the long run than regular hookahs. The initial cost of the device itself can be costly, and the pre-filled cartridges and e-liquids add up.
• Limited social interaction: Sharing an authentic hookah session with others promotes camaraderie and conversation. However, E hookahs are more individualised, which might make the social part of enjoying a hookah less enjoyable.

7. Legal Age for Usage

The legal age in India to use tobacco products and smoke is eighteen. Given that E hookahs frequently include nicotine, this also holds true for them. It is against the law to sell or provide pen hookahs to minors, and doing so carries fines or jail time.

8. Social Acceptance vs. Taboo

In Indian society, E hookahs are in the grey area. Although some people, especially young ones, find their portability and convenience appealing, social condemnation is fueled by worries about potential addiction and health hazards. The stigma is further compounded by the associated with nicotine and smoking.

9. The Verdict

Although they are a covert and easy way to experience hookah flavours, E hookahs have some disadvantages. Think about the expense, the social repercussions, and the possible health concerns before puffing. The option to use it is ultimately a personal one, but it’s important to do your research and make wise decisions.

10. Beyond the Puff

The popularity of E hookahs demonstrates how India’s tobacco usage habits are changing. Technology development could lead to the emergence of new, potentially dangerous items. It’s critical to have candid conversations regarding addiction, appropriate use, and the health hazards of these kinds of goods. Furthermore, raising awareness of conventional, less dangerous hookah usage methods can aid in striking a balance between public health issues and cultural heritage.

Recall that making wise decisions results in responsible delight. Thus, before taking a puff, the next time you’re thinking about using a pen hookah, weigh the smoke and the mirrors.

11. Frequently Asked Questions: