Exploring the rise of Heated Tobacco Sticks: A healthier alternative to smoking?
Are you a smoker looking for an alternative way to enjoy your habit without the risks associated with tobacco cigarettes? Over recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of heated tobacco sticks, as many see them as a healthier option than smoking.
In this article, we’ll explore what heated tobacco is, why it has become so popular so quickly, and get an expert opinion on whether smokers can switch to it without drastically increasing their risk of harm. Whether you’re new to this emerging trend or simply curious about its rapid growth in popularity, read on.
What are Heated Tobacco Sticks, and why is it gaining popularity
Heated Tobacco Sticks are a new type of smoking product rapidly gaining popularity, especially among former cigarette smokers. These sticks, also known as Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) tobacco products, are designed to heat rather than burn tobacco. When a user inserts a stick into a specially designed device and activates it, the tobacco is heated sufficiently to produce a vapour that delivers nicotine.
With this method of consumption, many smokers feel that they can enjoy the sensation of smoking without exposure to harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional cigarettes. As these sticks become more widely available and increasingly popular, they are likely to change the smoking habits of many people. NEAFS, for example, the National Electronic Alternative-Fuel Standard organization, is a non-profit association dedicated to creating safety standards for these sticks.
Examining the health risks associated with using heated tobacco sticks
The critical question is whether heated tobacco sticks are healthier than traditional cigarettes. While it is difficult to compare the two products based on health, some factors still indicate that heated tobacco may be less harmful than smoking. For example, research has shown that these sticks contain significantly fewer toxins and carcinogens than cigarette smoke.
Additionally, a recent review of several studies found that users of heated tobacco sticks experience lower exposure to nicotine and other hazardous compounds. However, more research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of using these sticks on people’s health.
Comparing the cost of heated tobacco sticks to traditional cigarettes
Regarding financial cost, heated tobacco sticks may also be a more attractive option for many smokers. Generally, these sticks are cheaper than cigarettes in the long term and can last longer. Additionally, most users find that accessing this product type is more accessible and often less expensive than buying traditional cigarettes.
Furthermore, some companies offer customers loyalty programs or discounts on heated tobacco sticks, reducing the overall cost of smoking them. It makes them an attractive option for casual and regular smokers who wish to reduce their spending on smoking products.
Analyzing the pros and cons of using heated tobacco sticks
Ultimately, heated tobacco sticks provide a novel and attractive way for smokers to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals while still enjoying the sensation of smoking. However, some potential risks associated with using these products should be considered before deciding to switch.
First, it’s important to remember that any nicotine delivery system carries the potential risk of nicotine addiction and other health problems. Additionally, research into the long-term use of heated tobacco sticks is still ongoing, and more data is needed to determine whether they are genuinely safer than traditional cigarettes. Ultimately, it’s up to each smoker to decide if the benefits outweigh the risks when deciding whether or not to switch from smoking cigarettes to using heated tobacco sticks.
Exploring the potential environmental impact of heated tobacco sticks
It’s essential to consider the potential environmental impact of heated tobacco sticks. Since they don’t involve combustion, these sticks produce fewer airborne pollutants than cigarettes and may therefore be less damaging to air quality. Additionally, some studies have suggested that using them could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 25%.
Further research is needed to determine the full extent of their environmental impact.
However, considering that traditional cigarettes are estimated to produce around 4.5 tons of CO2 per year on average, it’s clear that switching from smoking cigarettes to using heated tobacco sticks could significantly reduce an individual’s contribution to climate change, with each stick lasting much longer than a single cigarette.
Investigating the marketing strategies used by companies to encourage people to switch to heated tobacco sticks
To increase the popularity of their products, many companies have turned to aggressive marketing campaigns that often feature attractive packaging or special discounts. While these promotions may help people learn about heated tobacco sticks and potentially switch from cigarettes, it’s important to remember that, like with any other product; there are risks associated with using them.
Ultimately, making an informed decision is crucial when switching from smoking traditional cigarettes to using heated tobacco sticks. Smokers need to take their time and consider all the pros and cons before deciding whether this new technology is right for them.
To conclude
Heated tobacco sticks are becoming increasingly popular as a healthier alternative for cigarette smokers. With fewer toxins and carcinogens than traditional cigarettes, they may be a better choice for those looking to reduce their exposure to hazardous compounds. Additionally, they are often cheaper and more accessible than buying traditional cigarettes.
Risks are associated with these products, and smokers must research the potential health effects before switching. It is also essential to consider the more significant environmental impact that these sticks may have. Ultimately, the decision to switch from cigarettes to heated tobacco sticks should be made carefully considering all the factors involved.
Best of times? Worst of times? … Why not both at once?
The year 2025 will be good for consumers in terms of pricing, stores, selection, home growing, and hash. Prices will be low, more stores will open with more options, cool seeds will flourish, and hash will be everywhere.
But it’s going to be another bear of a year for growers, sellers, and activists. Both Republicans and Democrats love soaking the pot industry with taxes and regulations. America’s 40 million or so past-month smokers have yet to find their voice and push back.
The wheel of time is set to turn once again. So let’s punch up our annual predictions in the style of asking questions to a Magic 8 Ball. We’ll let you make the pot puns.
Big legislative moves
Will Congress legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will the federal government reschedule marijuana? Outlook not so good.
Will Congress further regulate hemp-derived products? Most likely.
Will the States further regulate hemp-derived products? It is decidedly so.
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State legalization in 2025
Will Pennsylvania legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will Oklahoma legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will Hawaii legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will New Hampshire legalize marijuana? Very doubtful.
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Will Florida legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will more local, state, and federal expungement efforts continue? Outlook good.
Will more local cities and counties decriminalize cannabis? Yes.
Retail
Will more than 100 new dispensaries open in legal US states? It is certain.
Will more delivery, pickup, and drive-through options open up in legal US states? You may rely on it.
Will more lounges open up in legal US states? It is certain.
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Will the East Coast states gain stores, farms, and clout in the legal market? Signs point to yes.
Will California cannabis cafe culture hit new heights? As I see it, yes.
Strains & Products
New strain for 2025: Ridgeline’s Blueberry Caviar perfumes the room. (David Downs/Leafly)
Will blueberry be a hype flavor of 2024? Most likely.
Will even more of cannabis culture become about hash? As I see it, yes.
Will cannabis prices find their bottom? Don’t count on it.
Will cannabis prices find their bottom? Don’t count on it.
Will value-added cannabis products like live rosin reach new price heights? Signs point to yes.
Will the home grow movement get bigger? Signs point to yes.
More legislation
Will more cities or states debate and pass THC caps? Most likely.
Will cannabis face continued censorship on social platforms? Better not tell you now.
Will the US government legalize cannabis banking? Unclear, ask again later.
Will cannabis taxes and regulations go up? Signs point to yes.
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Will more states try ‘social equity’ laws? Yes.
Will more legal challenges narrow or nullify ‘social equity’ laws? Most likely.
Will consumers form a big association and find their political voice? Concentrate and try again.
Will Canadian cannabis remain stagnant and over-regulated? Better not tell you now.
See how easy that was? If you don’t like our Predictions, leave one of your own in our survey below. Afterward, get out there and prove us wrong. The future is unwritten. Our fates are what we make it, so go make yours a good one. See you in 2025.
Ah, the age-old debate—right up there with pineapple on pizza or whether hot dogs are sandwiches.
Is it better to light up before you step into the shower or after you’ve dried off?
Now, there’s no wrong answer here. As they say, your high, your rules. But let’s weigh the pros and cons of each approach so you can make an informed decision—or at least sound smart when debating it with your stoner buddies.
The case for a pre-shower blaze
First off, there’s something magical about hitting your favorite strain before you turn on the water. The steam from the shower can intensify the high, making every drop of water feel like a mini massage. It’s like turning your bathroom into a personal spa without the hefty price tag. Imagine this: you spark up, the warm water hits, and suddenly, you’re not just washing off the day’s grime, you’re also washing away the stress. The high can make the experience more sensory–the soap smells better, the water feels warmer, and your mind starts to float away from any hustle.
Creative sparks: For the artists and philosophers out there, this combo often sparks some shower thoughts that are as brilliant as they are fleeting. Who needs a whiteboard when you’ve got condensation on glass?
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The case for a post-shower toke
Now, for the post-shower aficionados, there’s a different kind of pleasure. After you’ve cleaned up, hitting that bowl or joint can feel like the perfect cap to your routine. It’s the cherry on top of your self-care sundae. The high then becomes part of your chill-out session, making everything from watching your favorite show to just lounging around feel like a luxury. You’re already refreshed, relaxed, and clean from the shower, so that first hit feels like an extra layer of bliss.
Distracted thinking is for sure a risk with a pre-shower toke.
There’s also the pragmatic part. Ever washed your hair and immediately forget you washed your hair? Distracted thinking is for sure a risk with a pre-shower toke.
And let’s talk about sleep. If you’re aiming to drift off into dreamland, a post-shower toke can be your ticket to a deeper, more restful sleep, especially if you choose an indica strain.
One more thing, many stoners have found that a shower actually makes you come down from a high. So if you want to save money and not ‘waste’ a bowl—it might be best to wait until after you rinse off.
The verdict?
You the audience decides in the December poll above. And leave arguments or tips in the comments below.
Happy December, Stargazers! The final month of the year harkens Sagittarius season and lights up the cosmos, bringing an adventurous and optimistic energy to guide us. The stars are full of celestial activity this month—let yourself reflect on the past year and dream big about the future. Lest we forget, we’re still in Mercury Retrograde until December 15. Try to focus on tying up loose ends rather than starting anything brand-new until then. Mid-month, communication and travel plans should begin to smooth out, so prepare to move forward with anything that felt stalled earlier.
On December 6, Mars shifts into retrograde to slow us down and urge us to re-evaluate our goals. Use this time to recharge your energy rather than pushing ahead with full force. On December 7, Venus enters free-spirited Aquarius, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to love and social connections. Neptune also goes direct on December 7. Dreams and intuition may feel clearer as Neptune’s forward motion helps untangle any recent confusion or uncertainty. Let your imagination flow freely.
As 2024 wraps up, the healing energy of Chiron direct on December 29 helps us process emotional wounds and end the year with self-acceptance and growth. These retrogrades may make you feel like life is moving at a slower pace, but that’s okay; they give us opportunity to pause, reflect, and realign. Lean into the adventurous Sagittarius energy to embrace the unexpected and keep your spirits high. As the year closes, Chiron’s direct motion brings a gentle nudge to celebrate how far you’ve come and welcome 2025 with a fresh, hopeful mindset.
Your December horoscope
Sagittarius
(Leafly)
Happy Birthday, Sag! December brings a mix of introspection and excitement as the year comes to a close. Until Mercury’s retrograde ends on December 15, you may find yourself reflecting on personal goals and relationships, giving you a chance to address lingering issues or refine your plans. Patience is key during this time, especially when communicating with others. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel a renewed sense of clarity and momentum, perfect for making progress on your ambitions.
Venus, traveling through your sign for much of the month, adds (even more) charm and confidence to your interactions, making it an excellent time to focus on self-expression and meaningful connections. The new moon in Capricorn on December 30 shifts your attention to finances and personal values, encouraging you to set practical goals for the new year. By embracing both the reflective and forward-looking energy of the month, you can end 2024 feeling balanced and optimistic about what lies ahead.
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December strain: We know you can’t stand something one-note, Sag. So as your restless energy drives you to seek new adventures, Sweet and Sour Widow’s balanced THC/CBD ratio offers relaxation without overwhelming effects, helping you unwind after your active pursuits. You also get a uniquely umami flavor profile.
Capricorn
(Leafly)
December invites Capricorns to reflect and prepare for new beginnings as your season approaches. Mercury retrograde until December 15 presents a great time to revisit old projects, organize your priorities, and snip loose ends. Communication may feel a bit off during this period, so patience and clarity are essential, especially in personal and professional discussions. After Mercury turns direct mid-month, a renewed sense of focus and determination makes it easier to take action on your plans.
The new moon in your sign on December 30 marks a powerful moment to set intentions for the year ahead. This fresh energy encourages you to embrace your ambitions and take steps toward long-term goals. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius throughout most of the month invites you to prioritize rest and self-care, helping you recharge before diving into 2025. By blending reflection with goal-setting, you’ll close the year feeling grounded and ready to make the most of what’s to come.
December strain: Sometimes a little pep can be good, Capricorn. Medihaze descends from two of the most beloved Haze strains of all time, Super Silver and Neville’s. These heady parents paired with a CBD-rich parent strain create a euphoric and creative experience without the risk of feeling overwhelmed. Enjoy its spicy terp palate while it soothes you into the new year.
Aquarius
(Leafly)
Aquarius gets a mix of introspection and connection as the year comes to a close. With Mercury retrograde until December 15, you might feel drawn to revisit past goals or rethink your approach to group dynamics and friendships. This is a good time to reflect on what truly supports your personal growth. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, collaboration with others and moving forward on shared projects will go smoother, with clarity and confidence.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 highlights your daily routines and well-being, encouraging you to create balance in your work and self-care habits. Meanwhile, Venus moving in Sagittarius throughout most of the month brings opportunities for meaningful connections and social adventures, making it a great time to engage with your community or explore new ideas. By combining thoughtful reflection with meaningful action, you can end 2024 feeling connected and ready to embrace the possibilities of the new year.
December strain: Don’t let the name fool you—this strain is very much alive. Deadwood’s potent indica effects can help you unwind and find peace after a hectic season. These calming, kush-backed properties are perfect for indulging in some well-deserved self-care during the holiday season and preparing for the year ahead.
December brings a reflective yet optimistic energy for Pisces, encouraging you to focus on personal growth and meaningful connections. With Mercury retrograde until December 15, you may feel called to revisit old dreams or reassess your long-term goals. It’s also a good time to check in with loved ones and clear up any miscommunications. After Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel a renewed sense of clarity, making it easier to move forward with confidence and purpose.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 highlights your creative and emotional side, inspiring you to express yourself or engage in activities that bring you joy. As Venus moves through Sagittarius for much of the month, your professional life comes into focus, offering opportunities to shine and connect with others in meaningful ways. By blending introspection with action, you can end the year feeling inspired and ready for the fresh opportunities 2025 will bring.
December strain: Life’s a stage, isn’t it Pisces? And sometimes you need to let loose and dace. As you reflect on the past year and plan for the next, Dancehall’s uplifting effects can help you maintain a positive outlook. This strain’s unique blend of Afghani and Mexican landrace strains makes it a vibrant, suitable companion to twirl into 2025.
Aries
(Leafly)
A new beginning awaits you, Aries. Mars, your ruling planet, turns retrograde in Leo on December 6, urging you to reassess your creative and romantic pursuits. This might bring some delays to unfinished projects, especially in areas involving leadership or artistic expression. A new moon in Sagittarius on December 1 activates your higher learning and travel sector, making this a perfect time to explore educational opportunities or spiritual growth. However Mercury’s retrograde continues until December 15, advising caution in communication and decision-making during the first half of the month. Use this period to reflect and refine plans rather than initiating new ventures.
The second half of December, however, ushers in momentum. Mercury stations direct on December 15 and the Sun enters Capricorn on December 21, shifting focus to career and financial matters. This solar movement energizes your professional aspirations, potentially unlocking income opportunities through partnerships or innovative projects.
The month concludes with a new moon in Capricorn on December 30, ideal for setting resolutions and solidifying financial or professional goals. Watch for tensions around December 24 when Jupiter squares Saturn and tests your patience in financial or relationship dynamics. Balancing ambition with practicality will set the stage for a successful end to the year.
December strain: December is a cold month, Aries, and it may require something stronger than your usual cannabis routine. Remedy is a high-CBD strain with solid indica effects. Its mellow relaxation aligns perfectly with your need to unwind and find balance during this healing time, and its floral, minty flavors complement your unique tastes. Let it accompany you through the month’s planetary tribulations.
Taurus
(Leafly)
December brings a mix of introspection and opportunity for Taurus, with planetary alignments sparking growth in personal and practical matters. Mercury retrograde lasts until December 15, slowing progress in communication and planning in finances or shared responsibilities. This is a good time to reassess your budget and refine your strategies for achieving long-term stability. A Sagittarius new moon on December 1 highlights transformation and shared resources, encouraging you to explore new ways to strengthen your financial or emotional security. Take it slow during the first half of the month in order to yield clarity for the weeks ahead.
The second half of December feels lighter and more productive by comparison when Mercury turns direct mid-month and lingering delays make way for decision-making. Venus, your ruling planet, moves into Aquarius on December 7, energizing your career and public image. This is a favorable time for networking and professional pursuits with opportunities to shine in collaborative efforts. The Sun entering Capricorn on December 21 shifts focus to learning and long-term ambitions, making it an excellent period for setting achievable goals for the new year. As the year winds down, the new moon in Capricorn on December 30 provides the perfect backdrop to create a fresh, practical plan for your future.
December strain: December holds a lot of potential for you, Taurus, and we don’t want you overwhelmed. As you dive into the festive spirit and reconnect with old friends, Suzy Q’s high-CBD, low-THC profile offers relaxation without the high, helping you unwind. Its pine terpenes further help harmonize your thoughts for the new year.
Gemini
(Leafly)
December brings a reflective yet optimistic energy for Gemini, offering a mix of introspection and excitement as the year wraps up. With Mercury, your ruling planet, in retrograde until December 15, you might feel the need to slow down to better avoid unfinished tasks or misunderstandings in your relationships. This is a great time to reconnect with old friends or rethink your goals for the new year. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel a surge of mental clarity and confidence, making it easier to plan ahead and tackle projects with renewed focus.
The new moon on December 30 in Capricorn highlights your financial and career sectors with realistic goals and strategies for the coming year. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius for most of the month brings a playful energy to your partnerships, sparking moments of joy and deeper connection. Balance your curiosity with a bit of patience this month, and you’ll end the year feeling centered and ready for a fresh start.
December strain: You’re always on the move, Gemini, and you need a strain that keeps you even-keeled. CBD Shark’s balanced THC:CBD ratio offers relaxation without overwhelming effects, helping you spread joy to those around you. Its calming properties can also assist in maintaining your well-being during the festive season.
Cancer
(Leafly)
December offers Cancer a chance to focus on relationships and personal growth as the year winds down. Mercury in retrograde until December 15 makes time for reflecting on past connections or rethinking communication patterns in close relationships. It’s a good time to pause and ensure you’re expressing your feelings clearly. After Mercury turns direct, conversations and plans flow more smoothly, making the second half of the month ideal for strengthening bonds or resolving any lingering misunderstandings.
The full moon on December 15 in your sign marks a powerful moment for emotional clarity and self-discovery. You might feel called to release old habits and what no longer serves you, creating space for personal transformation. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius encourages you to find joy in your daily routines, reminding you to balance work and play. Embrace the reflective energy of the month and trust the process—it’s setting the stage for an uplifting start to the new year.
December strain: As emotions run high, you need something to help you ride the waves , Cancer. Valentine X‘s calming effects can help you navigate the holiday season with ease while spreading joy. Its high CBD content offers relaxation without the high, keeping you balanced and ready to enjoy the festivities.
Leo
(Leafly)
December brings a blend of creativity and reflection for Leo to close out the year. Mercury’s retrograde until December 15 gives haste, urging you to revisit creative projects, tie up loose ends, and relish your personal achievements. Miscommunications can arise, so be patient and double-check important details. After Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel more confident moving forward with a clearer vision for the goals you want to pursue in 2025.
The new moon on December 30 in Capricorn emphasizes your health and daily routines, making it the perfect time to set intentions for better balance in your life. Venus in Sagittarius throughout most of the month enhances your social energy, inspiring fun interactions and moments of lighthearted connection with others. Let this month’s mix of productivity and joy carry you into the new year with optimism and focus.
December strain: The end of the year can be bittersweet, Cancer, so you need a strain that captures all of life’s highs and lows. Berry Punch blends the sweetness of blueberry with the beguiling effects of Romulan. Its fruity and spicy flavors add a delightful touch to your celebrations, making the season even more enjoyable.
Virgo
(Leafly)
December encourages Virgo to slow down and reflect as the year comes to a close. With Mercury, your ruling planet, in retrograde until December 15, old projects demand your attention, and they’ll compel you to reassess your goals, or reconnect with loved ones. This period is ideal for dealing with loose ends and finding closure in areas that feel unresolved. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, your sense of organization and mental clarity returns, helping you set your sights on the year ahead with confidence.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 lights up your social life with friendships and community connections. This energy may inspire you to strengthen bonds or seek support from those you trust. As Venus moves through Sagittarius for much of the month, your focus on home and family brings moments of warmth and connection. Allow this reflective and grounding energy to guide you, and you’ll step into the new year feeling aligned and ready for fresh opportunities.
December strain: No one understood the stars quite like Stephen Hawking, but this strain can help. As December unfolds and you enjoy some peaceful, creative activities, Stephen Hawking Kush’s soothing effects can help you relax and express yourself fully. Enjoy its cherry and berry flavors with a minty note.
Libra
(Leafly)
December focuses on relationships and communication for Libras as the year comes to a close. Mercury stays in retrograde until December 15, so you may feel drawn to revisit important conversations or reassess the dynamics in your personal and professional partnerships. Use this time to resolve misunderstandings and clarify your intentions. Once Mercury moves direct mid-month, decision-making and planning become smoother, especially in areas involving shared goals or commitments.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 shines a spotlight on your career and long-term ambitions, offering a moment to reflect on your achievements or adjust your path forward. Venus, your ruling planet, travels through Sagittarius for much of the month, bringing a boost of enthusiasm and a desire for meaningful connections. It’s an excellent time to nurture relationships and enjoy uplifting interactions; by balancing reflection with action, you’ll end the year feeling clear and prepared for what’s to come.
December strain: Don’t just ride the wave, Libra, take charge of the storm. Sour Tsunami’s is the eye, as its high-CBD content offers relaxation without the high, helping you enjoy festive gatherings with a clear mind. Its calming effects can also assist in maintaining your well-being during the holiday season.
Scorpio
(Leafly)
December encourages Scorpio to focus on personal growth and meaningful connections as the year draws to a close. Mercury’s weekslong retrograde until December 15 compels you to reflect on your recent decisions, revisit old projects, or clarify miscommunications. This period is well-suited for taking stock of your emotional well-being until mid-month, when Mercury goes direct and you’ll feel more confident moving forward, especially when it comes to making plans or pursuing long-term goals.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 highlights your sense of adventure and curiosity, potentially sparking a desire to expand your horizons or seek out new learning opportunities. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius throughout most of the month brings a focus on finances and self-worth, encouraging you to align your spending habits with your values. By balancing reflection with action, you can close out the year feeling empowered and ready to embrace new opportunities in 2025.
December strain: This strain draws its healing potential from the infamous Ringo’s Gift. As you embrace your intellectual side, Pineberry’s calming effects can help you stay focused and relaxed during your deep dives into knowledge. Its sweet, fruity, and pine aromas add a delightful touch to your introspective moments.
