Posts Feed
Comments Feed

Archive for the 'Cigars' Category

The Health Risks of Cigar Smoking

The health threats of cigar smoking appear to increase dramatically in those individuals who smoke regularly and inhale while smoking.  Someone who smokes three to four cigars each day will him or herself at eight times the risk of developing some kind of oral cancer than a nonsmoker.  Unfortunately, we do not yet know the health risks of smoking the occasional cigar.  It seems clear however that smoking cigars on a daily basis can pose serious health risks.

Many individuals wonder if cigars are as addictive as cigarettes. Many wonder why, for instance, so many people become addicted to cigarettes, and not cigars?  The truth is that any tobacco product can become addictive because it contains nicotine.  Witness the effects of smokeless tobacco products on individuals.  These products, such as chewing tobacco, can become very addictive, simply because they contain tobacco, which in turn contains nicotine.  Many cigar smokers do not inhale deeply, thus causing the nicotine to be inhaled superficially.  Cigarette smokers tend to inhale, causing the nicotine to be absorbed faster and more readily by the lungs.  Even though most cigar smokers inhale the nicotine more superficially, it is still possible to become addicted if the user smokes cigars on a regular basis.

If nicotine is so addictive, why don’t more cigar smokers smoke more often?  It appears that more people avoid becoming ‘hooked’ on cigars for several reasons.  The most obvious reason is that the nicotine is inhaled much more superficially than in regular cigarette smoking, causing less nicotine to be absorbed by the body.  Also, cigars are not as readily accessible as cigarettes.  The health risks of any kind of smoking increase dramatically as frequency of use increases.

No Comments »

How to Choose the Perfect Cigar

Wondering how to choose the perfect cigar? If you’re a newcomer to the world of cigar smoking, here are a few tips to choosing the best cigar.

First, note the texture of the cigar. Squeeze it gently. Is very soft, or rigid? Ideally, the cigar should give slightly, but not too much. Very gently, squeeze the length of the cigar to check for lumps. A good cigar will have a consistent texture.

Next, inspect the cigar for flaws. Any cracks or discolorations are the signs of a lower quality cigar. The cigar’s wrapper should be wrapped smoothly.

Finally, look at the ends of the cigar. Pay particular attention to the exposed end where cigar is lit. If you’re new to cigars, it can be difficult to gauge the quality of the tobacco. The simplest way to judge the tobacco quality of a cigar is to inspect the color of the tobacco. If you note any abrupt color changes, this may indicate that the tobacco leaves were not laid out properly. Look for a cigar with a smooth blend of tobacco.

In order to get the best quality cigars, you will have to visit your local tobacconist. While many mail order businesses do carry good quality cigars, or you can try sample cigar from cigar sampler pack dot com before you go to Drugstore Cigars.

No Comments »

Cigar Smoking Manners

With the passion of anti-smoking campaigns still in full swing, the importance of enjoying a good stogie while not offending others cannot be stressed enough. Simply remember that while you are smoking a cigar, it can be difficult to gauge the smell that others are experiencing. And don’t forget that cigar smokes can leave a mighty strong residue on clothing, furniture, and even the walls! In order to enjoy your stogie without a heavy conscience, learn to become a considerate and courteous cigar smoker.

If you live with non-smokers, try to find a well-ventilated area of your residence where you can smoke comfortably. Although it may be tempting to lock yourself away in an office or bedroom, it’s probably not a good idea to smoke in an enclosed area unless it has a window. Make sure you have easy access to the window. Never smoke in a closed area! You are more likely to inhale the toxic air from your own cigar. If possible, go outside to smoke. Pull up a lawn chair; relax on the porch, or any other open area where you can smoke comfortably. Get as far away as possible to non-smokers, especially children and the elderly. Remember that cigar smoke contains many carcinogens that can be easily inhaled by non-smokers.

If you must smoke a cigar outside your home, remember that the courteous and respectful smoker will only light up where legally permitted. Do no light up in a bar, hotel, or restaurant where smoking is clearly prohibited. The courteous cigar smoker will also make sure to smoke in the company of other smokers. Make sure the smoke isn’t wafting in their direction. Sit near an open window or space. Make sure the air conditioner or current is moving the smoke in their direction! The secondhand smoke from a discourteous smoker is a surefire way to ruin a meal.

A courteous cigar smoker will also be aware of their ashes. If you must smoke outside your home, make certain to dispose of your ashes in a safe and appropriate container. Don’t forget that ashes can easily blow away, especially in lower quality cigars. Don’t litter with ashes, and be careful they don’t blow near anyone around you.

Related article with Cigar Smoking Manners

No Comments »

Next »