Coconut coals, often favored for use in hookah, shisha, and certain types of grilling, are marketed as a cleaner, more natural alternative to quick-lighting charcoals. These briquettes, made from compressed coconut shells, offer a longer, more consistent burn and are valued for their minimal ash production. Despite their natural origin, the combustion process of any carbon-based fuel presents a significant safety question regarding the production of carbon monoxide (CO). Understanding the chemical reality of how these coals burn is necessary for anyone considering their use, especially in indoor or semi-enclosed environments.
The Science of Carbon Monoxide Generation
Coconut coals, like all charcoal, are composed primarily of carbon. The production of carbon monoxide (CO) is an unavoidable consequence of burning any carbon-containing material when the supply of oxygen is limited, a process known as incomplete combustion. When there is insufficient oxygen available for the carbon to fully oxidize, the reaction produces CO instead of carbon dioxide (CO2). The high carbon content of coconut shells makes them susceptible to this reaction.
The perception that coconut coals are “cleaner” or “natural” does not change the fundamental laws of chemistry that govern combustion. While they may burn more steadily and produce less visible smoke, the risk of colorless, odorless carbon monoxide generation remains. Any time charcoal is lit, some level of incomplete combustion occurs, releasing this dangerous gas into the surrounding air.
Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it is an undetectable gas—it has no color, odor, or taste. Once inhaled, CO rapidly enters the bloodstream and binds strongly to hemoglobin, the molecule responsible for carrying oxygen. This binding forms carboxyhemoglobin, effectively displacing oxygen and leading to oxygen starvation in the body’s tissues, particularly the heart and brain.
Symptoms of mild exposure often mimic common illnesses, including a dull headache, mild nausea, and dizziness. As exposure levels increase, moderate poisoning can manifest as severe headache, mental confusion, chest pain, and loss of muscle coordination. In cases of severe poisoning, symptoms progress rapidly to include loss of consciousness, seizures, and ultimately death.
Essential Safety Measures for Indoor Use
The primary defense against carbon monoxide poisoning is ensuring consistent and adequate ventilation. Because coconut coals are frequently used for hookah indoors, this is paramount. When lighting or burning charcoal inside, a window or door must be open, and mechanical ventilation, such as an exhaust fan, should be running to draw air out of the space.
Never use any charcoal product in a completely enclosed area like a garage, basement, or small, unventilated room. Carbon monoxide can accumulate quickly in these spaces, reaching dangerous concentrations in a matter of minutes. The most important safety device for any home using charcoal indoors is a working, properly maintained carbon monoxide detector installed near the area of use.
When preparing to use coconut coals, the initial lighting process is a time of high CO output. It is highly recommended to light the coals outside or in a dedicated, well-ventilated area using an electric burner designed for this purpose. The coals should be fully lit—glowing red and covered in a light layer of ash—before being brought into the main area of use.