A cigar does not produce a psychoactive “high” similar to illicit drugs, nor does it create a euphoric or altered state of perception. The primary sensation experienced by a cigar user is a strong physiological rush or “buzz,” caused by the rapid action of the powerful chemical nicotine on the central nervous system. This feeling is one of intense physical stimulation and lightheadedness, which is fundamentally different from a cognitive or sensory “high.”
Nicotine: The Cigar’s Main Chemical Driver
Nicotine is the primary psychoactive compound naturally present in tobacco leaves. Cigars contain significantly higher total amounts of this substance compared to cigarettes, often holding 100 to over 400 milligrams of nicotine—the equivalent of a pack or more of cigarettes. This high concentration ensures a substantial dose is available for absorption, regardless of how the cigar is smoked.
Nicotine acts as a central nervous system stimulant, temporarily increasing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This neurochemical release drives the addictive potential of cigars and creates the initial physical sensations for the user.
How Nicotine is Absorbed from a Cigar
The mechanism for nicotine absorption from a cigar is distinct from that of a cigarette, making deep inhalation unnecessary. Cigar tobacco is processed to yield smoke with a higher, more alkaline pH level, typically ranging from 6.0 to 8.5.
In this alkaline environment, nicotine is converted into its unprotonated or “freebase” form. This freebase nicotine is volatile and easily crosses the body’s lipid membranes. Since cigar smoke is held in the mouth, the freebase nicotine is efficiently absorbed directly through the mucous membranes lining the oral cavity, a process known as buccal absorption. This bypasses the need for the smoke to be drawn deeply into the lungs to enter the bloodstream effectively.
The Difference Between a Rush and a High
The “nicotine kick” or “rush” is characterized by a rapid increase in both heart rate and blood pressure as the stimulant floods the system. Users commonly report symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, and a feeling of warmth or relaxation.
For first-time or infrequent users, this strong physiological response can sometimes be overwhelming, leading to symptoms like nausea, clammy skin, or vomiting, a condition sometimes referred to as “cigar sickness.” This intense physical experience contrasts sharply with a true psychoactive high, which involves altered thought processes, euphoria, or impaired motor control. The effect from a cigar is primarily vasoconstriction and nervous system stimulation, a physical event rather than a cognitive one.
Acute and Long-Term Health Risks
Despite the common practice of not inhaling the smoke, cigar use carries health risks. Holding smoke in the mouth and swallowing saliva containing smoke byproducts exposes the oral cavity, throat, and esophagus to carcinogens. Consequently, cigar smokers have an elevated risk for developing cancers of the mouth, tongue, larynx, and esophagus, even without lung inhalation.
Cigar smoke contains many of the same toxic compounds found in cigarette smoke, including tar and carbon monoxide. These are absorbed through the mucous membranes and the lungs if smoke is accidentally or intentionally inhaled. Furthermore, the high concentration of nicotine ensures a strong potential for addiction, quickly leading to dependence and prolonging exposure to health hazards.