Shisha tobacco, also known as hookah tobacco, is a specially blended mixture of tobacco leaves, molasses or honey, and various flavorings. The moist consistency of shisha helps produce a dense, smooth smoke when heated by charcoal, which is then filtered through water in a hookah pipe before being inhaled. Unlike traditional cigarette tobacco, shisha comes in a wide range of flavors, including fruity options like apple, grape, and strawberry, as well as mint, chocolate, and even exotic blends. This variety of flavors and the smooth, flavorful smoke are key reasons why shisha has gained popularity worldwide.

Although shisha smoking is often perceived as less harsh than cigarette smoking due to the water filtration, it still carries significant health risks. The nicotine content in shisha can lead to addiction, and the process of heating tobacco with charcoal releases harmful chemicals and toxins. While water filtration may reduce some of the particles in the smoke, it does not make the practice safe. Consequently, frequent shisha use can have similar health effects to smoking cigarettes, including respiratory issues, heart disease, and other long-term health problems.