Do cigars give you a buzz?

Answered by Joseph Vos

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore various types of tobacco and understand their effects on the body. When it comes to , the answer to whether they give you a buzz is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, including the individual's tolerance, the type of cigar, and how it is consumed.

Cigars are made from fermented and aged tobacco leaves, which contain nicotine, a naturally occurring stimulant. When you smoke a cigar, the nicotine is released into your body, and it can have psychoactive effects. However, the buzz or nicotine rush experienced from smoking a cigar can vary greatly from person to person.

One important factor is the individual's tolerance to nicotine. If you are a regular smoker or have a higher tolerance, you may not feel as strong of a buzz from smoking a cigar compared to someone who is not a regular tobacco user. Your body may have built up a certain level of tolerance to nicotine, and as a result, the effects may be less pronounced.

Another factor is the type of cigar. Cigars come in various sizes and strengths, ranging from mild to full-bodied. Larger cigars typically contain more tobacco, which means a higher nicotine content. If you smoke a larger, stronger cigar, you are more likely to experience a buzz compared to smoking a smaller, milder cigar.

Additionally, the way a cigar is consumed can impact the buzz experienced. Unlike cigarettes, cigars are not typically inhaled into the lungs. Instead, the smoke is drawn into the mouth and often swirled around before being exhaled. This method of smoking allows for the flavors and aromas of the cigar to be enjoyed, but it also means that less nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream compared to inhaling cigarette smoke. As a result, the buzz from smoking a cigar may not be as intense as smoking a cigarette.

That being said, it is important to note that cigars can still provide a noticeable buzz, especially for those who are not regular tobacco users. The larger quantities of tobacco used in cigar construction can result in a higher nicotine intake, leading to a more pronounced effect.

In my personal experience, I have found that smoking a strong, full-bodied cigar on an empty stomach can result in a more intense buzz. The combination of the nicotine and the stimulating flavors can create a pleasant and invigorating sensation. However, it is important to approach cigar smoking with moderation and be aware of the potential effects, especially if you are not accustomed to nicotine.

To summarize, cigars can indeed give you a buzz, but the intensity of that buzz can vary depending on factors such as individual tolerance, the type of cigar, and the method of consumption. It is always important to smoke responsibly and be aware of the potential effects of nicotine.