Electric Cigarette!!--2

What is in the cartridge?
The cartridge contains either 3 or 4 elements.

water
flavor
propylene glycol
nicotine
I say either 3 or 4, because it is entirely possible to get an electronic cigarette without #4 - the nicotine. More on this idea later.



The flavor contained in the cartridge simulates that of tobacco, but there is no tobacco. With the growing popularity of the e-cigarette, more flavors are becoming available to satisfy consumer demand. Pipe and cigar smokers may soon find their favorite brand available as a smokeless sensation. Banana, apple, cherry, and strawberry are just to name a few.



I think water is easy to discern, but most people may not be familiar with propylene glycol. PG (propylene glycol) is the real magic ingredient in the mix. It is the element responsible for the smoke that appears. This smoke is actually just part of the vapor created with the water - and is the same smoke you see in smoke machines at your discotheque.. It is not really smoke, as there is no fire.



Side note: New experiments are running with VG or vegetable glycerine in replace of the PG. Apparently this also creates a smoke like appearance, and can be found readily in health food stores.



Propylene glycol is a substance which is considered safe by the FDA. It is found in many personal body products such as shampoo, lotion, and even toothpaste. A small amount of the population will have an allergic reaction to PG - so it is advisable to consider any allergies you may have before trying the electronic cigarette.



Finally, nicotine is added. Not all cartridges are the same as nicotine is available in different strengths. Usually this is high, medium, low, or the option mentioned above of "no nicotine."






Pictured here is the pen style electronic cigarette. These devices are becoming available in a plethora of designs and colors.

China and the World
The electronic cigarette has it's origin in China dating back to 2003. China is known for consuming 1/3 of the worlds tobacco consumption. Although taxes are collected on tobacco products, these funds are no match for the higher cost of health care brought about by Chinese smokers. This is possibly the driving force that pushed China to this invention.



Runyan was the original company to take the electric cigarette and push it into availability for the public. Since that time many other manufacturers have popped up and competition for the best and most reliable device is on the rise.



The US is now another happy home to the e-cig. Just recently an American company Njoy has added a mini style which more closely resembles the size of a traditional cigarette. The Njoy Npro is the latest evolution.