Asked recently to write about electronic cigarettes, I have to confess that I had never heard of such a thing. Some internet research later and I discovered that electronic cigarettes are very much a quickly growing concern. A Google search revealed there is no smoke without fire as almost six million results just for the phrase “electronic cigarette” were returned.

The electronic cigarette has been in existence for almost three years and is a clever device aimed at providing smokers with a healthier option. Apparently also useful in helping to reduce and indeed quit smoking altogether.

At 100mm in length the new mini e cigarette is the most realistic so far. In its fourth generation the electronic cigarette is finally user friendly and sleek, unlike its earlier brethren which were large and perhaps a little embarrassing to use.

Containing a taste of tobacco and apparently none of the harmful substances and chemicals found in standard cigarettes, they allow smokers to satisfy their cravings without taking in all those toxins. Is this too good to be true or can the electronic cigarette really deliver on its claims?

A renewable nicotine chamber allows the user to choose between different strengths of nicotine cartridge, so if desired they can incrementaly reduce the amount of nicotine they are absorbing. A smoke like vapour and glowing end when drawn add an extra dose of authenticity to the smoking experience. The battery and internal atomiser helping to produce this effect.

A nicotine cartridge typically lasts the same time as 15 to 20 cigarettes, thus creating a huge saving to normal costs. Standard, medium, low and no nicotine at all are the various cartridge strengths.

The banning of smoking in public has already helped some smokers to quit but for many the thought of having to brave freezing cold temperatures and rain to have a quick cigarette is a pain but still a compulsion. The electronic cigarette contains no known harmful toxins or substances enabling the smoker to remain warm and dry.

None smokers also will benefit, as their worries about passive smoking are rendered null and void by the electronic cigarette. A much more sociable environment then!

If all the claims are backed up and electronic cigarettes do indeed prove to be not only safer but also a method of quitting altogether and people take to them in their droves then surely this must lead to a healthier, less polluted future for us all.

• Best Herb to Help Quit Smoking
• Home Remedies for Quit Smoking - Control the Smoking Urges
• Marijuana E-Cigarette Illegal Claims FDA
• Using Herbs to Quit Smoking - Does it Work?
• Smoking Could Cause Weight Loss