Why in news?
The Union Cabinet has approved a total ban on e-cigarettes and vapes in India.
What are these?
- An electronic cigarette (also known as electronic nicotine delivery systems, vaporizer cigarettes, and vape pens) is a battery-operated device that emits doses of vaporized nicotine, or non-nicotine solutions, for the user to inhale.
- Aims to provide a similar sensation to inhaling tobacco smoke, without the smoke.
- Are sold as aids to reduce or quit smoking.
- It was invented by Hon Lik, a Chinese pharmacist.
How they work:
Most e-cigarettes have:
- a mouthpiece, or cartridge
- a heating element
- a rechargeable battery
- electronic circuits
As the user sucks on the mouthpiece, a sensor activates a heating element that vaporizes a flavored, liquid solution held in the mouthpiece. The person then “vapes,” or inhales, the aerosol solution.
The solution, also known as e-liquid or e-juice, is made by extracting nicotine from tobacco and mixing it with a base, usually propylene glycol, and flavoring. The nicotine content varies from zero to “extra-high,” or 24 to 36 milligrams (mg) per milliliter (ml).
Nicotine, what is it?
- Nicotine is an alkaloid plant which contains nitrogen and can be grown synthetically on various plant types, including the tobacco plant.
- Nicotine is both sedative as well as stimulant.
