What Is A Hookah?

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History and use of the Hookah (or Shisha) Pipe.

A Hookah Pipe is an ancient smoking device, a type of water pipe, which has been used in Eastern countries for many centuries, long before the arrival of American cigarettes companies.

There are many names for the Hookah Pipe: In Egypt it is known as a "Shisha", in Lebanon a "Nargila", in the UK a "Hookah", elsewhere a "Waterpipe" and often a "Hubbly-Bubbly" or "Hubble-Bubble" a term derived from the wonderful noise made when the vapour passes through the water as it is inhaled.

The traditional approach to hookah pipe smoking is very relaxed and sociable. In Arab countries, many cafes can be found with luxurious decor and comfortable cushions where you can lie and enjoy the pleasure of hookah smoking with groups of friends. This activity would have been enjoyed for centuries by the upper classes entertaining their guests in the Arab world.

Shisha tobacco is mixed with molasses and marinated in fruit shavings to give it its light, sweet taste. Some of the most popular flavours are apple, banana, watermelon and strawberry. The experience of smoking shisha tobacco is very different from smoking any other tobacco - it is much smoother, more pleasant and induces an open, laid-back atmosphere.

The shisha tobacco is placed inside the hookah or shisha pipe bowl at the top. A small pellet of coal is then placed over this and lit. The tobacco never actually burns - a much healthier way to smoke than most methods - and it gets filtered through the water in the base of the pipe and inhaled through the hoses. What you get is a silky smooth, sweet vapour.

Hookah pipe smoking dramatically reduces the health risks associated with other forms of smoking. Because the tobacco is not burned and the vapour is cooled and filtered through the water, about 90% of the harmful chemicals are removed, leaving a mere 0.5% nicotine and 0% tar.

All in all, Hookah pipe smoking is a leisurely, peaceful experience, conducive to bonding and good conversation amongst friends - something that should be tried by all who have the opportunity.

Hookah Pipes and Accessories