Nicotine is an alkaloid obtained in plants that are part of the nightshade group (Solanaceae), predominantly in tobacco. Lower quantities can be obtained from potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplant (aubergine). Nicotine can also be processed in a laboratory at an additional cost.
Nicotine has similar benefits to cannabis in that it acts both as a stimulant and as a relaxant. Its users report a number of effects from the use of nicotine such as alertness, calmness, and mood elevation. Its use is associated with both physical and psychological addiction. This is the reason why most vapers who were initially smokers use e-juice with some percentage of nicotine. Commercial e-juice is available in a range of nicotine strengths while others have zero levels of nicotine.
Range of Nicotine Strengths
The variation in nicotine strengths for the vape juice requires one to have adequate knowledge in choosing the right quantity of nicotine, especially for a new vaper. E-liquids are available in the market from strengths of 0 mg/ml of nicotine to over 50 mg/ ml. Additionally, there are some which have the nicotine concentration expressed as a percentage of total volume.
What Quantity of E-Liquid is Equivalent to a Cigarette?
This is a common question; however, there is no absolute answer as the quantity of e-liquid equivalent to a cigarette depends on various factors. These include the type/brand of the cigarette, the strength of the cigarette, the style of smoking, and the mass and lung capacity. All these factors would have to be weighed to the concentration of nicotine in the e-liquid and the vaping style that is suitable for you. For example, a normal cigarette has an average of 12 mg of nicotine, but your body will absorb a small amount and the rest is released when you exhale. Vaping, on the other hand, does not deliver nicotine into your system as smoking does. It is relatively slow and is likened to coffee and alcohol, whereby what might be adequate for one person is too much for another.
What is the Right Nicotine Strength for Me?
To be able to get the right answer to this trickles down to you understanding your smoking habits. This starts by evaluating the quantity one smokes in a day and whether they are the light or strong type. For anyone wishing to switch from smoking to vaping it is better to start with a stronger liquid. Once you have identified the right quantity you can reduce it gradually over time.
Low Vapor Production: 0-3mg/ml
If you are a social smoker or smoke only a few cigarettes daily as a hobby, you belong to the low range level and the 0 mg nicotine/ free nicotine option would be ideal. To those individuals who want to quit smoking and have managed to reduce their intake to almost zero, having a nicotine level of 3 mg would be ideal for you. This is the lowest level of nicotine you can get in a liquid in the market.
Medium vapor production: 6-12 mg/ml
The other level is the 6 mg nicotine, which is recommended to individuals who want a similar buzz to that of ultra-low/ ultra-light cigarettes. In terms of numbers, individuals who get through 10 cigarettes in a day can use it. The 12 mg nicotine is designed for the average smoker meaning one who gets through a packet of cigarettes in a day.
High vapor production: 18-24mg/ml
This is high-level nicotine, which ranges from 18 mg to 24 mg and is for the serious smoker, by this, we refer to those who get through more than a packet in a day. The strength of juice will also decide the type of device you need as not all vapes are designed the same.
Balance and Discipline
While users have varying preferences regarding nicotine percentage, it all narrows down to balance and discipline. This is an aspect that resonates in most of our habitats. Taking an ideal example of online casino players in South Africa, there are many recommended SA online casinos that offer a wide range of casino games, lucrative bonuses and allow you to play in ZAR. The bonuses give you additional bankroll to keep you playing; however, you need to find balance between having fun and being disciplined. In the same case, knowing the right nicotine percentage prevents you from overusing.
