The sensation you describe as feeling "high" after smoking a cigar is primarily due to the rapid action of nicotine, a highly addictive stimulant present in tobacco.
The Science Behind the "Buzz"
When you smoke a cigar, nicotine is quickly absorbed into your bloodstream, whether through inhalation or absorption through the mucous membranes of the mouth.
Nicotine's Rapid Journey
Nicotine reaches your brain remarkably fast, typically within about 10 seconds of entering your body. This swift delivery is key to its immediate effects.
Brain Chemistry and Adrenaline Release
Once in the brain, nicotine triggers the release of several neurotransmitters. Crucially, it causes the brain to release adrenaline. This surge of adrenaline creates a temporary physiological response throughout your body, often manifesting as:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Enhanced alertness and focus
- A temporary feeling of pleasure and heightened energy, frequently described as a "buzz"
The Fading Sensation
This pleasurable buzz, however, is short-lived. The effects of nicotine and adrenaline quickly fade, which can lead to a subsequent feeling of:
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Irritability or a slight dip in mood
- A strong desire for more nicotine to recapture that initial energetic sensation
Understanding Nicotine's Immediate Impact
The table below summarizes the rapid sequence of events after nicotine enters your system:
| Timeframe | Effect on Brain/Body |
|---|---|
| Within 10 seconds | Nicotine reaches the brain |
| Immediate | Triggers adrenaline release |
| Short-term | Creates a "buzz" of pleasure and energy |
| Soon after | Leads to fatigue, mood dip, and cravings |
While this feeling may be perceived as a "high," it's a transient physiological response to a powerful stimulant. For more detailed information on nicotine and its effects, you can refer to reputable health resources like the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
