A pipe used for tobacco smoking usually consists of a small chamber or bowl where the tobacco is burned, attached to the end of a stem and mouthpiece where the smoke is inhaled. The bowl of the pipe can be made of many different materials, but is most commonly made of briar, corncob, meerschaum, and clay. Pipes can range from the very simple machine-made briar pipe to the highly-prized and expensive handmade variety created by renowned pipe makers. Tobaccos for smoking in pipes are often carefully treated and blended to achieve flavor nuances not available in other tobacco products.

Health Effects of Pipe Smoking

Pipe smoking, like cigar smoking, differs from cigarette smoking in that its users generally do not inhale the smoke. Regardless of inhalation, pipe smoking involves many of the same health risks as cigarette smoking. Oral cancer, throat cancer, lung cancer, tongue cancer, emphysema, and dental problems have all been associated with the practice of pipe smoking.