Cigarette components

Hydrogen Cyanide

Some states use this chemical in their gas chambers for executions. It weakens the lungs and causes fatigue, headaches and nausea. It is used in the production of acrylic plastics and resins, and can also be a fumigant.

Toluene

Used in resins, oils, and solvents, toluene is associated with permanent brain damage. It causes confusion, memory loss, nausea, weakness, anorexia, and drunken movements.

Nicotine

Nicotine – this is not carcinogenic. However, it is highly addictive. Smokers find it very hard to quit because they are hooked on the nicotine. Nicotine is an extremely fast-acting drug. It reaches the brain within 15 seconds of being inhaled. If cigarettes and other tobacco products had no nicotine, the number of people who smoke every day would drop drastically. Without nicotine, the tobacco industry would collapse. Nicotine is used as a highly controlled insecticide. Exposure to sufficient amounts can lead to vomiting, seizures, depression of the CNS (central nervous system), and growth retardation. It can also undermine a fetus’ proper development.

Cadmium

Cadmium, a known carcinogen, damages the brain, kidneys, and liver. It is utilized in non-corrosive metal coatings, storage batteries, pigments, and bearings.

Phenol

Used in resins in plywood and construction materials, this highly toxic substance is harmful to the central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular system, respiratory system, kidneys, and liver.

Ammonia

Used in cleaners, ammonia is known to cause asthma and raise blood pressure.

Formaldehyde

Part of the resin used in foam insulation, plywood, fiberboard and particleboard. It can cause nasal cancer, as well as damaging the digestive system, skin and lungs.

Quinoline

It is used for stopping corrosion and also as a solvent for resins. It is a severe eye irritant, is harmful to the liver, and causes genetic mutations. Experts believe it may be a carcinogen.

Tar

Tar – consists of several cancer-causing chemicals. When a smoker inhales cigarette smoke, 70% of the tar remains in the lungs. Try the handkerchief test.

1. Fill the mouth with smoke, don’t inhale, and blow the smoke through the handkerchief.
2. There will be a sticky, brown stain on the cloth.
3. Do this again, but this time inhale and the blow the smoke through the cloth, there will only be a very faint light brown stain.

Butane

Used in lighter fluid, butane is among the many harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke.

Nitric Oxide

Nitric Oxide – this is a major contributor to smog and acid rain. It is made by gasoline combustion. Scientists say it is linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and asthma.

Acetone

This chemical is used in solvents. It irritates the eyes, nose and throat. Long-term exposure can damage the liver and kidneys.

Arsenic

Arsenic is used as semiconductor because it can strengthen alloys of copper. It is used in electronic devices and automotive batteries. Arsenic is poisonous to living things because of its component. Arsenic is even used as pesticide to kill insects and pests harming vegetables and plants but, knowing its negative effects, arsenic is already banned.

Lead

Lead damages the nerves in the brain, as well as the kidneys and the human reproductive system. Lead intake can also cause stomach problems and anemia. It is a known carcinogen and is particularly toxic to children. Lead is used in paint and metal alloys.

Hydroquinone

Used in varnishes, motor fuels, and paints, hydroquinone has a detrimental effect on the central nervous system. It also causes eye injuries and skin irritation.

Carbon Monoxide

This is a poisonous gas. It has no smell or taste. The body finds it hard to differentiate carbon monoxide from oxygen and absorbs it into the bloodstream. If there is enough carbon monoxide around you and you inhale it, you can go into a coma and die. Carbon monoxide decreases muscle and heart function, and causes fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. It is especially toxic for babies still in the womb, infants and individuals with heart or lung disease.

Acetic Acid

Industrially, acetic acid is used in the preparation of metal acetates, used in some printing processes; vinyl acetate, employed in the production of plastics; cellulose acetate, used in making photographic films and textiles; and volatile organic esters (such as ethyl and butyl acetates), widely used as solvents for resins, paints, and lacquers.