How Are E-Liquids Made?
Vape pens, JUULs, and similar devices use a battery to heat e-liquid into an aerosol that users inhale. This liquid usually contains nicotine, propylene glycol, and flavorings. For the best flavors, you can check https://www.ecigelm.com/product-category/pod-system/.
- Vegetable Glycerine
Vegetable Glycerine (VG) is a slightly sweet, syrupy liquid created by heating vegetable fats under pressure or together with strong alkalis. It’s widely used in e-liquids as well as other products.
E-cigarettes use VG combined with propylene glycol to create a balanced liquid that produces an even cloud and provides throat contraction when inhaled. Most VG-based e-liquids come at a 50:50 ratio, but you can choose any ratio that suits your taste and preference.
Like PG, VG is a hygroscopic liquid that can hold up to one-quarter of its volume in water. This property makes VG ideal for vape pens or devices with smaller batteries, as it produces a high density of aerosol.
- Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol (PG) is an additive commonly used in many products and processes. It’s even commonly employed by e-cigarettes to produce smoother smoke.
Propylene glycol is a polymer composed of three carbon atoms and two alcohol groups. It’s non-bioaccumulative, meaning it breaks down quickly in the body without forming crystals.
It’s an ingredient commonly found in cosmetics and food items like hand soap, ice cream, toothpaste, salad dressings, pre-made cake frostings, and more. You may even find it in some alcoholic beverages.
In general, PG is considered safe to consume and hasn’t been linked to any negative health effects. However, those with kidney or liver issues or chronic illnesses should try their best to limit exposure to this substance as much as possible in order to avoid developing lactic acidosis – a potentially life-threatening condition that also increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Nicotine
Nicotine is an addictive chemical found in tobacco plants that are used to make cigarettes and e-cigarettes. When inhaled, nicotine causes people to experience a sensation of pleasure.
Nicotine acts by binding with the Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which may lead to feeling more alert and awake.
- Flavorings
Flavorings are an integral component of many e-liquids. These flavors give the liquids their distinctive sweetness or savory taste.
They are generally accepted as safe (GRAS) when used in foods. However, they can pose hazards to children and pets if inhaled or swallowed. While most flavorings used on humans are safe for consumption, some are not; thus, it’s best to avoid them if possible.