History of the Bong
Bongs (or ‘bongs,’ if you will) have been used to smoke various substances for centuries. The word ‘bong’ has probably come from the Thai word ‘bang’ or the Hindi word ‘bhangi,’ both meaning a vessel or jar. Bongs became extremely popular in the 60s and 70s with the Hippie movement. And while they began as crudely-made devices, bongs have become works of art in their own right. Read on to discover more about the history of these pipes and how they are used today.
Bongs Through History
Bongs have a long history and have been around in some form or another for many centuries. The earliest evidence of bongs comes from the Chinese - they used bamboo pipes to smoke herbs and incense in religious rites. Some evidence shows that these pipes have been used since the time of the Han Dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE). The history of the bong in South Asia is unclear, but it is suggested that the use of water pipes to smoke cannabis began in the Indian subcontinent in the 5th century CE. Bongs became extremely popular in the 60s and 70s with the Hippie movement. And while they started as crudely-made devices, bongs have become works of art in their own right.
A Short History of the Bong
Bongs - or water pipes - have been around for a long time. The earliest evidence of bongs comes from China, where bamboo water pipes were used to smoke herbs and incense in religious rites. The history of bongs in South Asia is unclear, but it is suggested that the use of water pipes to smoke cannabis began in the Indian subcontinent in the 5th century CE. Bongs became extremely popular in the 60s and 70s with the Hippie movement. And while they started as crudely-made devices, bongs have become works of art in their own right. Although they have always been around, bongs are enjoying a resurgence in popularity in the 21st century. With modern technology, the bong has evolved into a more sophisticated device.
What is a bong?
A bong is used to smoke various substances such as tobacco, cannabis, or other herbs. Bongs are usually made from glass or ceramic but can also be made from plastic. Smokers often use bongs as a healthier alternative to other smoking methods, such as cigarettes or joints. However, bongs are not without risks, so always ensure you are smoking safely. Bongs are used as a filtration system, often made of water and ice cubes to cool smoke and make it easier to breathe.
How do bongs work?
Bongs are generally composed of a ‘bowl,’ ‘stem,’ ‘shoulder,’ ‘mouthpiece,’ and ‘net.’ Bongs usually have a bowl at the base, where you place your smoking materials. The stem then extends up from the bowl and rests on the shoulder of the bong. The shoulder helps provide support for the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is the part where you put your mouth as you smoke. The ‘net’ is the final part of the bong and acts as a ‘catch-all’ for any extra material you might not want in your lungs.
Why do we use bongs?
Bongs can have several benefits, depending on your situation. - If you are quitting smoking, bongs can be extremely helpful. They are less harmful than other forms of smoking, so quitting can be easier. - Bongs are a better option than cigarettes if you have respiratory issues, such as asthma, bronchitis, or COPD. - If you smoke recreationally, bongs are a fun way to socialize and smoke with your friends.
Types of Bongs
Classic Bongs - These bongs are usually made of glass and come in different shapes and sizes.
Chillum Bongs - Chillum bongs are a traditional Indian style of a bong made from clay or carved stone.
Ice Bongs - These bongs contain a container of ice cubes as part of the filtration process.
Mini Bongs - Mini bongs are smaller versions of traditional bongs and are often made from plastic.
Final Words
Bongs have a long history and have been around in some form or another for many centuries. Bongs are devices used to smoke various substances such as tobacco, cannabis, or other herbs. Bongs are usually made from glass or ceramic but can also be made from plastic. Bongs can have several benefits, depending on your situation. Bongs include classic, chillum, ice, mini bongs, and many other types.