What is an Electronic Cigarette?
The first electronic cigarette was patented by Herbert A. Gilbert in 1963. Although not as stream-lined as today's models, it was the start of an e-evolution, The Smokeless Cigarette.
Simply put, the electronic cigarette (the e-cig) allows the user to enjoy smoking without actually smoking. Instead of burning tobacco, with all of its accompanying toxins, chemicals, and smelly side-effects, the user puffs and inhales a vapor which delivers the nicotine, and gives the satisfaction of smoking, while not really smoking [the user of the eCig does not smoke but vapes. That is, you inhale a vapor, instead of smoke].
Today's electronic cigarettes is based upon simple technology, by modern standards. The e-cig typically consists of these components . . .
- a lithium ion battery
- an atomizer (small heating element)
- small microchip to control the vaporizing process
The eCig gives the smoker of regular tobacco cigarettes (analog cigarettes) a great alternative to enjoying the act of smoking, without pumping their lungs full of the dangerous chemicals and toxins associated with smoking. In other words, with the eCig, you are not going to get the 599 additives or the thousands of chemicals produced by burning the tobacco.
[download the full list of the 599 additives HERE]
The cartridges for the eCig come in two different types, pre-filled and empty. The pre-filled is typically equivalent to about a pack of regular cigarettes. This can vary depending upon the habit of the individual smoker (you could get more or less, depending upon how heavy a smoker you are). The empty cartridges can be filled by the user from a small bottle of e-Liquid. This is probably the most cost-effective method.
Which ever method may be right for you, will depend on you and your own personal smoking habits. But regardless, you will soon see the benefits of vaping, instead of smoking. If you are any thing like me, you will no longer smell like cigarettes (your clothes, hair, hands, breath, etc.).
Also one of the benefits we haven't even mentioned yet, is that you can vape where smoking is not allowed. Imagine just finishing your meal in your favorite restaurant. You sit back, pull out your eCig and start puffing. You start getting stares and looks like, "Can you believe this guy! Lighting up right here in the restaurant!". Then the people around you realize that they don't smell burning tobacco. The restaurant manager comes over to your table and asks you what you are doing. You tell him that your vaping, not smoking. No one around you is getting that dreaded second-hand smoke. How cool is that!
Electronic Cigarettes may not be for everyone. Hardcore smokers (2 or more packs a day) may find the transition to eCigs difficult. However, with your health and life on the line here, don't you think you owe it to yourself and those you love to give it try. Even if it helps you cut down the amount you smoke, any reduction is a victory.
