Electronic cigarettes have been described as a perfect alternative to traditional cigarettes and also a health concern of its own. The health concern has been due to the base liquid the nicotine is dissolved in, made of either propylene glycol or glycerin. Propylene glycol is the primary ingredient in e-cigarettes. When a person draws off an e-cigarette, a small amount of the nicotine and propylene glycol are vaporized. The chemical propylene glycol has many uses besides electronic cigarettes. Its found in hand sanitizer, deodorant and as a food additive.

Propylene glycol is metabolized in the body into pyruvic acid, a common part of the glucose metabolism process and is easily converted to energy. There have been several studies that have shown that propylene glycol is not toxic orally and would require large amounts in order to cause any adverse reaction in humans. Most people do come in contact in some way with this chemical, every day, even if they aren’t using electronic cigarettes and in fact, propylene glycol may have germicidal properties.

Propylene Glycol has been found in research to prevent respiratory infections like pneumonia, when it is vaporized and inhaled. In rare instances, an individual may experience minor irritation on the skin or in the throat from propylene glycol however this is an allergic response and not to be mistaken for exposure to any toxin. Most people who use electronic cigarettes simply find it enjoyable and offers more variety than traditional cigarettes without the hazards of tar and carcinogens found in tobacco.

Former smokers report less coughing and less incidence of respiratory problems when switching from traditional cigarettes to e-cigarettes. E-cigarette liquid comes in a wide variety of flavors from vanilla to coffee to tobacco and you can choose e-juice in nicotine concentrations of zero up to amounts comparable to those in traditional tobacco-based cigarettes. Thanks to the flavorless propylene glycol base, e-cigarettes can be made in almost any flavor you can think of. You can also think of how you no longer have to worry about tar and toxins in tobacco, no more smokers cough and no more standing out in the cold to have a cigarette!