The process of smoking hookah, which involves charcoal as the heat source to burn tobacco, plays an essential role in this experience. However, have you ever wondered about what’s in hookah coals? What ingredients are found in hookah charcoal, and how can these components affect our health?
What’s in Hookah Coals?
Before discussing the health risks that may arise from using hookah, it’s important to understand what is actually contained in hookah coals. Hookah charcoal, which serves as the heat source to burn tobacco, has a highly variable composition depending on the raw materials and the manufacturing process used.
Not only are they made from natural materials, but many hookah charcoals also contain additional chemicals to improve combustion quality. In this section, we will explore the composition of what’s in hookah coals in more detail, from the types of raw materials used to the potentially harmful chemicals that might be present.
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Types of Hookah Charcoal Materials

Hookah charcoal can be made from various raw materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One of the most popular types is charcoal made from coconut shells. Coconut shell charcoal is known for its ability to produce stable and long-lasting heat, making it a favorite choice for many hookah users. Additionally, this charcoal is more environmentally friendly because it is made from natural materials that decompose easily. This type of charcoal also tends to emit less harmful smoke, making it safer compared to other types.
On the other hand, manufactured charcoal is often made from a mixture of chemicals and organic materials such as wood, coal, or other synthetic substances. This type of charcoal is generally cheaper and more readily available on the market. However, the use of non-natural materials in the production of manufactured charcoal often leads to unstable combustion, releasing potentially dangerous smoke, and may even increase exposure to toxic chemicals. Therefore, it is crucial for consumers to understand this difference, as the choice of charcoal can impact the air quality inhaled during hookah use.
Chemicals in What’s in Hookah Coals

In addition to the raw materials used, hookah coals can also contain various harmful chemicals that are released during combustion. One of the most dangerous substances found in hookah charcoal is carbon monoxide, a toxic gas that can interfere with the blood’s ability to transport oxygen throughout the body. Carbon monoxide can trigger symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and even severe poisoning, especially when used in an enclosed space without proper ventilation.
In addition to carbon monoxide, hookah charcoal can also release formaldehyde and benzene—two chemicals known to increase the risk of cancer and other long-term health issues.
Moreover, mass-produced hookah charcoal is often coated with additional chemicals to enhance combustion. The purpose of these coatings is to reduce the amount of smoke or to increase the charcoal’s longevity. However, these coating chemicals can be very harmful to health, as they can produce toxic smoke that enters the body when the charcoal is burned. In some cases, these chemicals can also cause irritation to the respiratory tract and allergic reactions, especially when used over long periods.
Additional Ingredients in Hookah Charcoal

In addition to the primary raw materials, commercially produced hookah charcoal often contains various additives that are used to enhance the product’s appeal or combustion performance. One common additive is coloring, which gives the charcoal a more attractive appearance and captures consumer interest. Although these colors are not immediately harmful, some contain chemicals that can release toxic gases when burned, adding additional risks for hookah users.
Aside from coloring agents, some manufacturers also add other chemicals such as preservatives or binders to ensure the charcoal maintains its quality during storage. While these chemicals aim to extend the shelf life of the charcoal, they can be harmful when burned.
For example, some preservatives contain compounds that can produce dangerous smoke containing formaldehyde or other organic compounds, which can potentially cause respiratory problems. Therefore, it is important to always choose hookah charcoal made from natural materials and free from added chemicals that pose risks to health.
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Health Risks Related to Hookah Charcoal
While many people enjoy the hookah smoking experience as a form of social entertainment, it is important to be aware that exposure to hookah smoke can bring various health risks. These risks affect not only active smokers but also those who are exposed to secondhand hookah smoke.
Exposure to Harmful Gases
One of the biggest dangers associated with the use of hookah charcoal is exposure to harmful gases released when the charcoal burns. Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, is one of the most risky. This gas can interfere with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and, in more severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning.
In addition to carbon monoxide, the combustion process also produces formaldehyde and benzene—two chemicals that are known to be carcinogenic. Long-term exposure to these substances can increase the risk of cancer, particularly lung cancer, as well as other serious health issues.
Long-Term Effects
Routine exposure to hookah smoke, both from the charcoal and the burning tobacco, can have serious long-term health impacts. One of the main effects is respiratory disorders, such as chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which occur due to ongoing irritation of the respiratory tract.
Additionally, the risk of lung cancer increases with the frequency of inhaling hookah smoke. Beyond respiratory issues, exposure to this smoke can also affect heart health, raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart disease, all of which are directly related to the harmful substances in hookah smoke.
Impact on Passive Smokers
Not only active smokers, but also passive smokers—those who are exposed to hookah smoke without actually smoking—are at risk of harmful health effects. Hookah smoke contains many dangerous chemicals that can pollute the surrounding air, including carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and tar.
For those who are near hookah smokers, regular exposure to this smoke can increase the risk of respiratory disorders, heart disease, and even cancer. In enclosed spaces, exposure to hookah smoke can be even more dangerous for passive smokers due to the inevitable accumulation of harmful gases.
Safe Coconut Shell Charcoal Briquettes for Hookah
Choosing the right charcoal for heating hookah is an important consideration for hookah enthusiasts. One of the safest natural charcoals compared to others is coconut shell charcoal briquettes. These are made from natural, environmentally friendly materials, and their production process does not involve harmful chemicals.
You can find high-quality coconut shell charcoal briquettes at Little Briquette, which is certified for its coconut waste-to-charcoal processing. Contact the admin here and enhance your hookah experience!