A new innovation in smoking that is currently popular is the hookah. What is hookah? In brief, hookah smoking originates from the Middle East and has a long history reflecting the rich culture and traditions of the region. To understand more clearly what a hookah is and how to use it, read the following article.
What is Hookah?
What is hookah? Hookah, also known as shisha or narghile, is a smoking device that uses water as a filter to purify tobacco smoke. A hookah consists of several main components that work together to produce smoke that is inhaled through a hose. The tobacco used in hookahs is often mixed with various fruit flavors or other aromatic substances, offering a different smoking experience compared to conventional cigarettes.
The origins of the shisha can be traced back to the Middle East and South Asia. The device is believed to have been invented in Persia (now Iran) in the 15th century. Initially, shisha was used by the nobility as a status symbol and a social tool. Over time, shisha spread to various countries in the Middle East, such as Turkey, Egypt, and India, as well as North Africa.
In the 20th century, hookah began to be recognized in the West and gained popularity among people seeking new social and cultural experiences. In recent years, hookah has become part of a global trend and lifestyle, with hookah bars and cafes popping up in many major cities around the world.
Components of Shisha
Hookah differs from regular cigarettes because it has several components for enjoying it. Here are the components that make smoking hookah a pleasurable experience:
- Bowl: The bowl is the part of the hookah located at the top of the device and is used to hold the tobacco or shisha mixture. This bowl is made from various materials such as ceramic, metal, or glass and is usually equipped with an aluminum foil cover or a special lid to help heat the tobacco.
- Stem: The stem is the main part of the hookah that connects the bowl to the water chamber. It is typically made of metal and functions to channel the smoke from the bowl into the water chamber. The design of the stem can affect the quality and volume of the smoke produced.
- Water Chamber: The water chamber is the lower part of the hookah that is filled with water. The purpose of the water chamber is to filter and cool the smoke before it is inhaled. This chamber is usually made of glass or acrylic and is often decorated with attractive designs.
- Hose: The hose is the flexible component used to inhale the smoke from the hookah. The hose is often made from materials like silicone or leather, and its length allows users to sit away from the hookah. Hoses can come in various designs and colors.
- Pipe: The pipe is the part that connects the hose to the water chamber. Typically made from metal or other durable materials, the pipe ensures that smoke travels from the hose to the water chamber without leaks.
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Types of Hookah
After understanding what a hookah is and its components, it turns out that there are two types of hookahs: traditional hookahs and modern hookahs.
Traditional hookahs usually have a more classic design and are often made from materials such as copper or brass. Their design is often intricate and adorned with carvings or ornaments that reflect the style and artistry of their culture of origin. Traditional hookahs are generally larger and have simpler features compared to modern shisha models.
On the other hand, modern hookahs often feature a more contemporary and functional design. They are typically made from materials like stainless steel or aluminum, which are more durable and easier to clean. Their designs are often more minimalist, with additional features such as advanced cooling systems or more sophisticated airflow control.
How to Use a Shisha
After understanding what is hookah, its components, and its types, here’s how to effectively use a shisha:
Initial Preparation
Initial preparation involves choosing the right tobacco or shisha, which comes in various flavors like fruits (apple, grape, melon), sweet (nut, chocolate), and menthol. Select a flavor that suits your preference and ensure you purchase tobacco from a reputable brand for the best quality. Consider types of tobacco, such as those mixed with molasses for a stronger flavor or nicotine-free tobacco for a nicotine-free experience.
After choosing the tobacco, ensure all hookah components—bowl, stem, water chamber, hose, and pipe—are available and in good condition. Assemble the hookah by attaching the stem to the water chamber, placing the bowl on top of the stem, and connecting the hose to the pipe on the side of the stem. Ensure all connections are secure and leak-free for optimal hookah function and a smooth, satisfying smoking experience.
Filling the Water Chamber
Filling the water chamber is crucial for an optimal smoking experience, as water filters and cools the smoke before inhalation. Fill the chamber a few inches above the end of the stem to achieve the right balance; too much water can reduce the smoke volume, while too little can make the smoke feel hot and uncomfortable.
To fill it, remove the stem from the water chamber to prevent spillage, fill the chamber with clean water to the appropriate level, and then carefully reattach the stem to ensure there are no leaks and all connections remain tight. This ensures the hookah functions well and provides a satisfying smoking experience.
Preparing the Bowl
Preparing the hookah bowl involves two main steps to ensure the tobacco burns well. First, take the tobacco from the packaging, fluff it to remove clumps, and place it in the bowl, pressing it lightly so it’s not too packed. Avoid packing the tobacco too tightly as it can restrict airflow and reduce smoke quality.
Next, cover the bowl with aluminum foil or a special cover. If using aluminum foil, cut a piece large enough to cover the bowl, smooth the foil over it, and make several small holes to ensure proper airflow and heat distribution. If using a special cover, follow the recommended installation instructions to ensure the tobacco burns evenly and provides an optimal smoking experience.
Heating and Using the Hookah
To heat and use the hookah, start by lighting hookah charcoal, such as quick-lighting or natural charcoal, using a charcoal heater or stove until the charcoal is evenly lit and gray. Avoid using regular charcoal as it can produce harmful smoke.
Once the charcoal is ready, carefully place it on top of the foil or bowl cover. Position the charcoal in the center of the bowl, on top of the tobacco, and make sure it is not too close to the edge to ensure optimal smoke flow. Proper placement helps ensure the tobacco burns evenly and provides a satisfying smoking experience.
Read Also: Smoking Hookah Every Day, What Are the Effects?
Coconut Charcoal for Hookah Heating
One of the components in using a hookah is charcoal for heating. To this day, hookah users predominantly use charcoal made from coconut shells because it provides a purer taste. You can obtain high-quality hookah heating fuel from Little Briquette. Contact Little Briquette through the admin number here for bulk purchases.