Vízpipa

Vízpipa, also known as hookah or shisha, is a single or multi-stemmed instrument for vaporizing and smoking flavored tobacco called shisha. The smoke is first passed through a water basin—hence the name "water pipe"—before reaching the mouthpiece. Vízpipa smoking originated in the Indian subcontinent and Persia, and has since spread throughout the Middle East and parts of North Africa.

The typical vizpipa consists of a water bowl, a metal body, a bowl for the tobacco, a hose, and a mouthpiece. Charcoal is used to heat the tobacco, which then produces smoke. This smoke is drawn through the water, which cools and filters it before it is inhaled. While the water filtration process may seem to make vizpipa smoking safer, it does not remove all harmful substances. The tobacco itself contains nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide, which are detrimental to health.

Vízpipa lounges have become increasingly popular in many parts of the world, offering a social setting for smoking. Despite its popularity, health organizations worldwide have issued warnings about the health risks associated with vizpipa use, highlighting the potential for addiction and the transmission of infectious diseases through shared mouthpieces. The long-term health effects of vizpipa smoking are still being studied, but evidence suggests it carries risks similar to those of cigarette smoking.