Herbal Cigarettes: Safe Quit Aid or Hidden Cancer Risk? Experts Weigh In

The Misleading ‘Natural’ Alternative

As part of the growing trend to quit smoking, many Indians are turning to herbal cigarettes, marketed as a “natural” and nicotine-free alternative to conventional tobacco products. However, health experts caution that this popular switch may be just as harmful — or even worse — than regular smoking.

Recent studies indicate that these herbal variants, despite being tobacco-free, can still cause serious diseases such as cancer due to the toxic substances released during burning.

What Are Herbal Cigarettes Made Of?

Herbal cigarettes are typically made from plant mixtures like damiana, mullein, ginseng, mint, lavender, thyme, clove, and coltsfoot. They are often infused with flavours such as cherry, vanilla, or menthol to make them more appealing to those trying to quit tobacco.

While they promise a tobacco-free experience, the danger lies in combustion. When any plant material burns, it releases toxic smoke filled with harmful chemicals.

Smoke Still Contains Cancer-Causing Agents

Experts point out that the absence of nicotine does not make herbal cigarettes safe. Research reveals that their smoke contains carcinogenic compounds such as tar, carbon monoxide, phenolic compounds, aromatic amines, and benzo[a]pyrene — all known to damage DNA and trigger cancer.

In fact, studies have shown that the mutagenic potential — the ability to harm genetic material — of herbal cigarette smoke can be even higher than that of regular cigarettes, making them equally or more dangerous.

Health Risks Beyond Cancer

The dangers of herbal cigarettes go far beyond cancer. The tar buildup can impair lung function, while carbon monoxide lowers oxygen levels in the blood, increasing the risk of heart diseases.

The clove and aromatic herbs used in some variants can irritate the airways, leading to bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory issues. Moreover, continuing the smoking ritual with herbal cigarettes may psychologically reinforce the habit, leading many to relapse into tobacco addiction.

Doctors Urge Caution and Professional Guidance

Medical experts strongly advise individuals attempting to quit smoking to consult healthcare professionals before switching to herbal substitutes.

“Herbal cigarettes may look like a safe transition, but research clearly shows they carry serious health risks,” said a senior pulmonologist from AIIMS, New Delhi. “The only safe way to quit is through medically approved cessation programs.”

Experts emphasize that the idea of “healthy smoking” is a myth, and herbal cigarettes should not be mistaken for a safe or effective method to quit tobacco.