Clove Cigarettes: Facts, Ingredients, and Health Effects

What Are Clove Cigarettes?

Clove cigarettes, often referred to as kreteks, are a blend of tobacco and ground clove buds. Originating in Indonesia, they are now distributed worldwide. Kreteks are available with and without filters and are typically machine-rolled.

Ingredients in Clove Cigarettes

The primary components of clove cigarettes include:

• Tobacco: Comprising 60% to 80% of the cigarette
• Clove buds and clove oil: Making up 20% to 40% of the cigarette
• Other spices: Including cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, etc.
• Chemicals: Such as nicotine, carbon monoxide, tar, and eugenol

Health Effects of Clove Cigarettes

Kreteks pose similar health risks to traditional cigarettes, increasing the chances of cancer and heart disease. Notably, clove cigarettes have been associated with a heightened risk of acute lung injury, characterized by inflammation, fluid buildup in the lungs, and low oxygen levels. Additionally, clove cigarettes can lead to:

• Lung cancer
• Nicotine addiction

Other Potential Dangers of Smoking Clove Cigarettes

Aside from the aforementioned health risks, smoking clove cigarettes may cause various other issues, including:

• Abdominal pain
• Angina
• Blood-streaked sputum
• Bronchospasm
• Chronic cough (possibly bloody)
• Diarrhea
• Labored breathing
• Lung injury
• Mouth and throat burns
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Nosebleeds
• Pulmonary edema
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Respiratory tract infections
• Seizures
• Sleepiness
• Worsening of chronic bronchitis and asthma

Link Between Clove Cigarettes and Tobacco Use

Clove cigarettes often act as a gateway product, introducing young people to tobacco use. Their appealing flavors and packaging attract young smokers, making them susceptible to nicotine addiction.

Legal Status of Clove Cigarettes in the U.S.

In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned flavored cigarettes, including those containing cloves or clove oil. This ban aimed to discourage children from experimenting with tobacco products.

Conclusion

Clove cigarettes are not a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. They pose similar health risks and can lead to nicotine addiction. If you currently smoke clove cigarettes, or any tobacco products, consider quitting to enhance your overall health.