The UK vape scene has been under growing scrutiny over the last few years, with many question marks raised over the rise of illegal vapes and their safety. A new study by experts at online vape retailer Vape and Go has examined the rise of herbal vapes in the UK and whether this may offer a healthier solution to traditional nicotine vapes.
The appeal of herbal vapes
Herbal vapes are rapidly gaining popularity in the UK as an alternative to traditional nicotine-based e-cigarettes. These devices heat dried herbs, flowers or essential oils to produce vapour that not only offers a potentially less harmful way of vaping, but in some cases may also contribute to improved sleep or lower stress.
One of the main attractions of herbal vapes is the absence of nicotine, a highly addictive substance that poses significant health risks. Obviously, for those wishing to quit smoking, nicotine vapes are often the best solution as they allow someone to taper their addiction gradually, but for those who want to vape for other reasons and are looking to avoid nicotine altogether, herbal vapes offer an alternative.
Herbal vapes often contain natural ingredients such as chamomile, lavender and melatonin, which are known for their relaxing and sleep-promoting properties. These ingredients can offer additional therapeutic benefits, helping users unwind after a stressful day or improve their sleep quality.
The UK regulatory landscape
In the UK, herbal vapes can be sold and used legally if they do not contain nicotine or any other controlled substances. However, the industry is still relatively young, and there is limited research on the long-term health effects of herbal vaping.
This lack of scientific evidence surrounding herbal vapes has led to calls for stricter regulations, particularly regarding the quality and safety of these products. The UK government has indicated its intention to review the existing regulations to ensure consumer safety and prevent the sale of potentially harmful products.
A growing trend
Herbal vapes are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, particularly among young adults. This trend is driven by a combination of factors, including the desire to avoid nicotine, the appeal of natural ingredients, and the novelty of the product. Several UK-based companies now offer a wide range of herbal vape products, including disposable pens, refillable cartridges and loose-leaf vaporisers.
Despite many UK outlets showing vaping in a negative light, this uptake in herbal vaping can be viewed as a step in the right direction, as young adults become more aware of the risks surrounding nicotine addiction and are actively looking for healthier alternatives.
While herbal vapes are often marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional e-cigarettes, it is important to do your research first and ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality product. It’s also important to identify what benefits you are looking to gain from using a herbal vape and consult your GP if you have any concerns.
The future of herbal vapes
As the herbal vape industry continues to grow, it is crucial to prioritise research to better understand the potential benefits and risks of these products. This information is essential for consumers to make informed decisions about their health and for regulators to develop appropriate policies. While herbal vapes may offer a less harmful alternative to traditional e-cigarettes, it is important to remember that they may not be entirely risk-free. As with all vaping products, further long-term research is needed to determine their lasting health effects and ensure that consumers have access to safe and high-quality products.
Salman Essap, Founder and CEO of Vape and Go commented on the study: “The rise of herbal vapes in the UK reflects a growing interest in alternative wellness practices and a desire to move away from nicotine addiction. The proportion of adults in the UK reporting long term vaping increased from 1.3% in October 2013 to 10.0% in October 2023, with a particularly pronounced rise from 2021 – an increase which may signal an increased demand for alternative vaping products. “While the long-term health implications still remain unclear, preliminary research suggests potential benefits from certain herbal ingredients and can be viewed as another positive step forward in regard to discovering healthier alternatives to smoking.”
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