Shisha, commonly referred to as hookah or a waterpipe, has grown in popularity among young adults in the UK as a social activity. But many people aren’t sure of the minimum age requirement for shisha consumption. The minimum age to purchase and use shisha in the UK is 18. The legal age for purchasing cigarettes and other tobacco products is the same as this.
Shisha smoking includes inhaling flavored tobacco smoke via charcoal that has been burning. It is frequently shared by a group of people who are all using the same mouthpiece, which raises the possibility of spreading diseases like herpes and tuberculosis. Smoking shisha can also increase the risk of developing conditions like lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory disorders.
Muslims have strong feelings about shisha smoking from a religious perspective. As it includes breathing in smoke, which can be harmful to the body, some people think smoking is haram (forbidden). Others say that it is halal (permissible) provided it is practiced moderately and without causing harm to the body. In the end, it depends on personal preference and interpretation.
In the UK, it is allowed to sell shisha, but there are rules that must be followed. Businesses must have a license to sell tobacco in order for tobacco products to be sold, and they must come in plain packaging with health warnings. Some local councils, however, have imposed their own limitations on shisha cafes, such as time limits and requirements for outdoor smoking places.
Due of the risks to one’s health, there have been discussions in recent years about making shisha smoking illegal in the UK. However, there are no current intentions to outright outlaw shisha. Instead, the government has concentrated on raising public knowledge of the health concerns and putting laws into place to lessen its appeal.
Tobacco, molasses, and fruit flavorings are combined to make shisha. The molasses mixture is used to soak the tobacco, giving it a sweet flavor and promoting slow burning. On top of the shisha bowl is the charcoal, which heats the tobacco and is frequently made of wood or coconut shells. The water in the pipe cools the smoke before it is inhaled after it has been sucked through it.
In conclusion, the UK has an 18-year-old legal smoking age for shisha. Despite being legal and under control, shisha smoking is unpopular among Muslims and carries health hazards. Making wise choices regarding one’s health and wellbeing requires being aware of the potential risks.
Yes, COVID-19 can be acquired by sharing a shisha pipe with an infected person. When shisha smoking with others, respiratory droplets that can be exhaled can spread the infection. Sharing a mouthpiece or other shisha equipment components can further raise the chance of transmission. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to abide by the social distance rules and refrain from sharing shisha equipment with others.
You’ll need a shisha pipe, tobacco, charcoal, a bowl, water, and, if desired, some flavorings or herbs to enjoy shisha. Additionally, a mouthpiece is advised for hygiene reasons.