Cigars
Cigars
A Cigar (pronunciation: /sɪˈɡɑːr/) is a rolled bundle of dried and fermented tobacco leaves made to be smoked. They are produced in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Etymology
The term 'cigar' originated from the Spanish word 'cigarro', which in turn probably derives from the Mayan word for tobacco, 'sikar'.
History
Cigars have been in existence for over a thousand years and it is believed that the cigar was first discovered in the Caribbean Islands around 900 AD. The practice of smoking cigars spread to Europe after Christopher Columbus brought back tobacco leaves from his travels.
Production
Cigar production involves a detailed process that includes the selection of the tobacco, the aging process, the making of the cigar, and the packaging. The tobacco leaves are first harvested and then aged using a process that combines heat and shade to reduce sugar and water content without causing the large leaves to rot. This first part of the process, called curing, takes between 25 and 45 days and varies substantially based upon climatic conditions as well as the construction of sheds or barns used to store harvested tobacco.
Types of Cigars
There are several types of cigars, but the most common ones include Corona, Robusto, Churchill, Panatela, and Toro. Each type varies in size and shape, which can affect the smoking experience.
Health Risks
Like other forms of tobacco use, cigars can have detrimental effects on health and are strongly associated with diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory diseases. The risk is especially high for those who inhale cigar smoke.
Related Terms
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