A Look at the History of E-cigarettes

They say an idea is born every minute, but only a few actually make it to the assembly line. Some new products that do get launched meet very limited success yet ultimately spawn a series of spin-offs or product improvements. Such is what happened to the non-tobacco cigarette first patented by Herbert Gilbert back in 1963. Like today’s electronic cigarettes, Gilbert's invention was powered by batteries and offered a range of flavors ranging from root beer to rum.

For some reason, though, Gilbert's original idea didn't live up to its full potential, and the product was easily forgotten after a few years. In 2003, the concept was somewhat revived through Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik’s efforts. Hon Lik's product was first sold in China, where it instantly clicked with local consumers. Within a short span, the electronic cigarette found its way onto the international scene and the rest, as they say, is history.

Unlike Gilbert's original invention, Hon Lik's device contains nicotine which comes in the form of an e-liquid. This liquid also contains the chemical propylene glycol. However, the nicotine content is comparatively small amount compared to that found in traditional cigarettes. E-liquid comes in a variety of flavors to satisfy anyone’s preferences.