A cigar is essentially a tightly rolled bundle of dried and fermented tobacco leaves, distinct from cigarettes by its size, composition, and the manner in which it is consumed. The motivations for a person to smoke a cigar are layered, stemming from complex sensory experiences, psychological associations with status and ritual, and the physiological effects of nicotine. Understanding this behavior requires looking beyond the simple act of smoking to the broader context of why this particular form of tobacco is chosen.
The Appeal of Sensory Detail and Relaxation
A primary draw for many cigar smokers is the rich, evolving sensory experience that engages multiple senses. The flavor profile is complex, with tasting notes often described using terms like cedar, leather, earth, or coffee, derived from the aged and fermented tobacco leaves. These flavors and aromas evolve across the “thirds” of the cigar, providing a changing experience from the initial light to the final draw.
The physical act of smoking a cigar is slow, which creates a moment of mindfulness and reflection. This deliberate, unhurried pace acts as a psychological boundary, separating the smoker from the urgency of daily life and fostering a sense of calm. The ritual encourages a slow, measured breathing pattern that mimics common relaxation techniques, contributing to a perceived feeling of stress relief.
Factors of Status and Ritual
Cigar smoking is frequently associated with elevated social status, luxury, and success. Historically, cigars have been linked to aristocrats, political figures, and business leaders, lending the practice an aura of prestige and accomplishment. The visual and tactile qualities of a fine, hand-rolled cigar further reinforce this image of sophistication.
The process of smoking a cigar is built around a distinct, structured ritual, which is a significant part of its appeal. This ritual begins with the preparation, including the careful selection of the cigar, using a specialized cutter, and the precise toasting of the foot. This methodical sequence of actions is not hurried; a large cigar can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours to smoke, requiring a substantial time commitment.
This commitment transforms the act into a deliberate event, often shared in social settings like dedicated lounges, which promotes camaraderie and deeper conversation. The focus on accessories, storage, and craftsmanship elevates it beyond a simple consumption habit into a hobby or tradition. This structured practice provides a sense of control and tradition appealing to many users.
The Chemical Motivation of Nicotine
Beyond the sensory and social factors, the physiological effects of nicotine serve as a powerful motivation for continued cigar use. Cigar tobacco is cured and fermented in a way that results in smoke with a higher, alkaline pH compared to cigarette smoke. This alkalinity is a key factor in how the nicotine is absorbed by the body.
The higher pH allows nicotine to exist in its un-ionized, or “freebase,” form, which is readily absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth. Cigar smokers do not need to inhale the smoke into their lungs to absorb a substantial dose of nicotine. This mechanism ensures that nicotine enters the bloodstream without inhalation, leading to habit formation and dependence over time.
While a single large cigar can contain up to 200 milligrams of nicotine, a non-inhaling smoker absorbs between 5 and 20 milligrams during a session. This absorbed amount is sufficient to produce psychoactive effects and reinforce the smoking behavior. The slower absorption rate from the oral mucosa may contribute to the perceived “soothing” or less jittery feeling reported by some smokers.