Tobacco causes 8 million preventable deaths a year globally. That’s not me telling you but the World Health Organization (WHO). It is obvious for an informed smoker like you to either quit smoking or look for safer alternatives. Say hello to herbal cigarette, the safer smoke. Let’s understand what makes these cigarettes tick and the associated red flags. Spoiler Alert: It’s like a culinary adventure but with smoke. not spices.
- Suggested Reading: World’s Top Cigarette Brands
What is a Herbal Cigarette?
Image Courtesy: Image by luis_molinero on Freepik
The herbal cigarette is a self-explanatory term, meaning a cigarette containing herbs and plant materials. While traditional cigarettes have tobacco as the main ingredient, these herbal ones either outrightly ditch tobacco or use it sparingly for flavor. The ones completely free of tobacco are marketed as “tobacco-free cigarettes,” globally.
Why are herbal cigarettes stealing the spotlight? Well, there’s this belief that they are safer versions of their tobacco-laden cousins. Packed with the “goodness” of herbs and plants, smokers see these types of cigarettes as a healthier escape and, more importantly, a nonsmoking aid. Interestingly, these cigarettes have been around since 1947 when Honeyrose, the first herbal cigarette brand burst onto the scene, followed by Black Swan.
- Suggested Reading: Top Cigarette Brands in India
Herbal Cigarette Ingredients:
Let’s keep it straight. Herbal cigarette ingredients vary from one brand to the other and even within a brand. Here is your roundup of the common herbal cigarette ingredients.
Ingredient |
Properties/Uses |
| Damiana: | Mild and aromatic, it makes your smoke sweeter and relaxing. |
| Mullein | Eases out your respiratory discomfort |
| Lavender | Calms your senses and boosts cigarettes’ flavor profile |
| Rose Petals | Diversify the flavor profile and offer a delicate sweetness |
| Lemongrass | Introduces a citrusy zing and elevates the sensory experience |
| Corn Silk | Calms the respiratory system and adds character |
| Ginseng | Add a subtle earthy note to the smoke & offer health benefits |
| Peppermint | Renders a minty freshness and cool and invigorating sensations |
| Passionflower | Puts your brain and body in the relaxation mode |
| Vanilla | Sweet and aromatic, it elevates the overall flavor profile |
| Jasmine | Offers floral notes to improve the overall experience |
| Green Tea | Delivers a grassy flavor and anti-oxidant properties |
| Wormwood | Ensures a distinct aroma, and a bitter and herbaceous taste |
| Sage | Adds depth to the favor with its earthy and savory notes |
| Red Clover | Offers potential health benefits and a slightly sweet taste |
- Suggested Reading: World’s Top Tobacco Brands
Benefits of Herbal Cigarettes
Let’s take a stroll through the herb garden to explore the benefits of herbal cigarettes.
-
Dive into the Aroma:
What happens when lavender, rose petals, peppermint, and a whole bunch of other herbs come together in a smoke? In short, herbal cigarettes bring an aromatic twist to your smoking experience and might even offer certain “health benefits.”
-
No Tobacco, No Nicotine:
Herbal cigarettes offer a smoke without the tobacco punch. Tobacco contains nicotine, which causes addiction, diseases, and even death. Since unhealthy tobacco gives way to herbs, herbal cigarettes are a more health-friendly option, at least at face value.
-
NonSmoking Aid:
For those looking to break up with nicotine, this is a smoke break minus the addictive element. When paired with medications, therapies, and counseling, herbal cigarettes can help reduce cravings and withdrawals and calm your body and mind.
Suggested Reading: Deep Down of the Tobacco Companies in India
-
Calm Your Senses:
Desire a mini aromatherapy session? Well, light up an herbal cigarette, and let Lavender, Corn Silk, Ginseng, and Green Tea calm your senses with every puff. It won’t be unusual to come across users who swear by herbal cigarettes’ relaxing properties.
-
Flavors, Flavors & Flavors:
With a cocktail of herbs in play, herbal cigarettes spoil you for flavors. Your smoke turns into a culinary adventure for your taste buds when so many flavors run amuck in your mouth. Think of it as a much-needed break from the traditional tobacco monotony.
Suggested Reading: Women’s Choice: Best Female Cigarette Brands in India
-
Stay Restriction Compliant:
Some cities won’t allow you to light up in public places. Free from any such onerous restrictions, herbal cigarettes come to your rescue. It’s like having your smoke while staying within the rules. That’s one major reason for their growing popularity.
-
Passive Smoker-Friendly:
Smoking not only kills the smoker but the bystander as well. Since herbal cigarettes aren’t that bad for passive smokers, about 1.3 million lives can be saved a year.
-
No Bad Breath:
The repelling odor of smoke lingers in your mouth and the environment. Thanks to the herbal cigarette, you end up with a lasting fragrance of the choicest herbs.
- Suggested Reading: Best-Selling Menthol Cigarette Brands
Herbal Cigarette: Drawbacks
Nothing comes without trade-offs, not even herbal cigarettes. Let’s dive into the flip side of the herbal cigarette story and explore some potential disadvantages:
-
Health Risks Galore:
Just the absence of tobacco doesn’t guarantee safety. Much like traditional cigarettes, these herbal ones produce tar and other harmful byproducts upon combustion. You still run a risk of acquiring yellow teeth, respiratory issues, reduced lung function, paralysis, and other conditions. So much for a “healthy” smoking alternative!
-
May Cause Cancers:
Herbal cigarettes that use tobacco even though sparingly, are as likely to cause cancers as traditional cigarettes. That’s not my assumption but what the American Association for Cancer Research says in its Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention report.
-
Limited Research:
Let’s face it. We are yet to understand the implications of herbal cigarettes in the long term. Research is there but insufficient and largely inconclusive. So, if herbal cigarette brands tell you about the health benefits, take it with a pinch of salt, at least for now.
Suggested Reading: Most Expensive Cigarette in India
-
Regulatory Challenges:
Governments worldwide are finding it hard to formulate policies on herbal cigarettes. The existing rules and regulations are unclear, making it look like a Wild West scenario.
-
Limited Smoking Cessation Evidence:
Can herbal cigarettes help you quit smoking? Again, we lack any substantial evidence.
-
High Costs:
At an average, the herbal cigarette price is more than a regular cigarette.
- Suggested Reading: Cigarette Lighter Brands: A Definitive Guide
Herbal DIY: Crafting Herbal Cigarette
I know how eager the DIY enthusiast in you is to learn how to make herbal cigarette at home. Just follow a few simple steps, and help yourself to a personalized smoke.
Suggested Reading: Top Luxury Brands: Indulgence Redefined
1. Have Ingredients in Place:
The ball gets rolling when you have all the desired ingredients handy. Ensure the ingredients are dry and crushed for better flavor and even burning.
| Dried Herbs for the base | Common choices include mullein, damiana, and lavender |
| Flavor Additives | Optional additions like mint or sage for flavor |
| Rolling Paper | Unbleached and additive-free rolling papers work best |
| Optional Additives | Menthol, vanilla extract, or other flavor enhancers |
| Herbal Extracts | Optional extracts for added aroma and taste |
- Suggested Reading: Top Cigarette Brands in Pakistan
2. Create the Blend:
Mix the ingredients in appropriate quantities. Remember, overuse or under-use of ingredients can compromise the blend and your overall experience.
| Base Herbs | 2 Tablespoons |
| Optional Additives | 1 Tablespoon |
| Flavoring Herbs | ½ Tablespoon |
| Herbal Extracts | ½ Tablespoon |
- Suggested Reading: Slim Cigarette: Top 10 Facts You Need to Know
- Suggested Reading: Best Slim Cigarette Brands That Turn Heads
3. Get the Paper Rolling:
Now, it’s time to cut the paper, place the blend evenly along its length, and roll it. Ensure the roll is neither too tight nor too loose. Finally, lick the edge to secure the roll.
4. Dry it Well:
All things being equal, let the cigarette dry completely before smoking for an even burn. Store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality.
Disclaimer: Even homemade herbal cigarettes involve potential health risks. Always prioritize your well-being and make informed choices. Seek professional advice, if in doubt or have any health concerns or pre-existing conditions.
Suggested Reading: Best Disposable Vape Brands
Best Herbal Cigarette Brands
Even if DIY herbal cigarettes aren’t your cup of tea, we have you covered. Let’s walk you through the leading herbal cigarette brands handpicked for their quality, price, and other factors that matter. The idea is to help you choose the best for your unique needs.
1. Honeyrose BLUE Tobacco & Nicotine-Free Herbal Sticks
When it comes to the best herbal cigarette, it is hard to look beyond this Honeyrose Herbal Cigarette. Experience the rich and smooth flavor of a special blend crafted from naturally harvested herbs. Plus, it’s free of Tobacco and Nicotine and produces less tar.
This Honeyrose Herbal Cigarette comes from the house of Honeyrose, one of the leading herbal cigarette brands since the 1960s. You can trust the brand for a variety of flavors, including vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, menthol, and exotic herbs like lettuce.
- Suggested Reading: Clove Cigarette Unleashed: From Indonesia to the World
- Suggested Reading: The Best Clove Cigarette Brands: Ultimate Guide
Common Honeyrose Herbal Cigarette Ingredients:
| Marshmallow | Red Clover | Rose Petals | Honey | Fruit juices |
2. Royal Swag Flavored Herbal Clove Cigarette
This Royal Swag herbal cigarette packs a punch with a blend of clove and various medicinal herbs. Made of 100% natural fusion ball technology, the product is 100% tobacco-free and tastes great.
A barrage of juicy flavors just blasts your taste buds with each puff. Since it is a premium offering of Royal Swag, one of the best herbal cigarette brands, you can rest assured of its quality. This Royal Swag herbal cigarette is easy on the pocket as well.
Suggested Reading: The Best-Kept Secrets About Organic Cigarettes
3. Aarogyam Officer Herbal Cigarette
Come fall in love with this Arogya herbal cigarette, crafted from natural herbs and extracts. 100% tobacco-free and nicotine-free, it may help you quit smoking, refresh your mind, sleep better, and relieve stress, anxiety, and depression.
The cigarette tastes fine, produces ample smoke, doesn’t leave a bad smell, and comes in attractive packaging. However, it is costlier than most herbal cigarette brands.
- Suggested Reading: List Of Cheap Cigarette Brands in India with Price
Common Aarogyam Herbal Cigarette Ingredients:
| Blue Water Lily | Swarnadhanya | Licorice | Pudina |
| White Water Lily | Chamomile | Clove | & More |
4. Aarom Herbal Smokes (Paan)
Make way for this Aarom Herbal Cigarette in Pan flavor. It is your chance to revive the delicious taste of paan in a mess-free cigarette. Inspired by Ayurveda, these smokes are devoid of tobacco and nicotine, non-addictive, and highly flavorful and relaxing.
Like every Aorom Herbal Cigarette, this one too incorporates traditional herbs and spices used in several medicinal procedures for ages. Speaking of Aorom Herbotech, it has been around since 2020 and aims to ‘create an addiction-free ecosystem.’
- Suggested Reading: Sweet Cigarettes: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Common Aarom Herbal Cigarette Ingredients:
| Tendu leaves | Menthol | Chocolate | Cloves |
| Fennel seeds | Paan leaves | Cinnamon | Nutmeg |
5. Nirdosh Herbal Cigarette Icey Mint
Experience the holistic goodness of Nirdosh Dhoompan, the herbal cigarette brand by MAANS PRODUCTS (INDIA). Handcrafted based on Charak Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text, the smoke does not contain tobacco or nicotine at all. Trust the product for a delicious icey flavor and invigorating aroma for a refreshing and smooth smoke.
If the herbal cigarette brand is something to go by, the cigarette can reduce stress, enhance the mood, and help quit smoking. Costing just ₹10 / stick, it is one of the cheapest options I came across. Also, it is available in a pack of 20 sticks.
Common Nirdosh Herbal Cigarette Ingredients:
| Basil | Cloves | Turmeric | Liquorice root |
6 Maruk Waterfalls Ayurvedic Herbal Cigarette
Discover the purity of 100% Ayurvedic Herbs in these premium herbal smokes – no nicotine, no tobacco, and no additives. Crafted with high-quality 14+ natural herbs, spices, and extracts, these non-addictive cigarettes work well with Nicotine Patches or Chewing Gums you might be using for smoking cessation.
Developed through 75 years of research and development in Smoke Therapy, it is the only herbal cigarette in India to hold International Patents. Enjoy paper-rolled premium smokes, with each pack containing 10 sticks. Plus, get a complementary sample pack of 6 sticks, featuring two each of the Meditations, Waterfalls, and Forest Trails flavors.
Maruk Herbal Cigarette Ingredients
| Mentha | Nelumbo Nucifera | Glycyrrhiza Glabra | Syzygium Aromaticum | Curcuma Longa Nardostachys |
| Rosa | Cinnamomum Verum | Chrysopogon Zizanioides | Ocimum Aenuiflorum | Alpinia Galanga |
| Jatamansi | Trachyspermum Ammi | Cyperus Scariosus |
7. JOYHERBS Herbal Cigarette Mint Flavor
Crafted from superior Ayurvedic herbs, this herbal smoke is said to promote tobacco cessation, overall well-being, and focus. It comes with the world’s first Fusion Ball technology that may bring down nicotine cravings and withdrawals.
Joyherbs Herbal Cigarette Ingredients:
| Tulsi | Mulethi | Green Tea | Cinnamon | Menthol |
Trivia: Patanjali Herbal Cigarette
Social media is buzzing with an image claiming Patanjali has introduced herbal cigarettes that can cure cancer. I’ve even been asked about the Patanjali Herbal Cigarette price. After some investigation, however, it turns out to be a hoax.
- Suggested Reading: All Cigarette Name List: A Full Spectrum
Conclusion:
Herbal cigarettes have gained traction in recent years due to the rising health awareness and the taboo associated with smoking. While herbal cigarette brands are marketing them as a safe smoking alternative and nonsmoking aid, there is a clear lack of scientific evidence to support these claims.
If you are seeking healthier choices, make informed decisions upon considering specific needs and preferences. As with any smoking product, moderation and awareness is key to mindful and responsible use.
FAQs:
1. Are herbal cigarettes completely free from tobacco and nicotine?
It depends. While most herbal smokes lack tobacco and nicotine, some might contain them for flavor’s sake.
2. Do herbal cigarettes have any health benefits?
Some herbal cigarettes claim health benefits, such as stress reduction and improved respiratory health. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is lacking.
3. Can herbal cigarettes help in quitting smoking?
I have come across people using herbal smokes to kick out the practice. However, their effectiveness can differ among individuals.
4. Are herbal cigarettes safe for regular use?
The safety of herbal cigarettes depends on the specific blend and individual health considerations. It’s advisable to use them with caution and moderation.
5. Do herbal cigarettes have any side effects?
While herbal cigarettes are marketed as a safer option, users should be aware of potential allergic reactions or sensitivities to specific herbs used in the blend.
Suggested Reading:
A wordsmith, avid traveler, rationalist, brand loyalist, sports-freak, and an independent researcher, Rohit has authored 18000 writeups for some of the leading online and offline publications in the past 10 years. He digs into information, weaves narratives, and distills complex subjects into engaging content.