Phunnel, HMD, Molasses, Diffuser & Co. – all the important terms in the shisha world from A to Z, explained briefly and understandably.
Thin film that is stretched over the tobacco head and punched several times - the classic alternative to the smokebox. Multiple layers or armored foil ensure even heat.
Heads & SmokeboxesFlavoring substance that is added to the raw tobacco via the molasses (e.g. fruit, mint, cola) and determines the taste experience.
Discover tobaccoLegally required tax stamp on every tobacco tin - proof of tobacco tax paid.
Shisha pressure relief valve: Blowing forcefully into the hose releases stale smoke to the outside.
The shisha's glass water container, which cools and filters the smoke. At HookahX, “bowls” are glass bowls (e.g. Caesar Crystal).
View bowlsStrong base tobacco with a higher nicotine content - the basis of many dark blends.
Tobacco knowledgeHigh-quality glass bowl made of cut crystal glass - larger and more decorative than a standard bowl.
Glass bowlsType of cut of the tobacco (fine, medium, coarse). Affects packing and heat distribution in the head.
Tobacco-free paste that is placed in the head like tobacco. Important: tobacco-free does not mean nicotine-free - many varieties (e.g. HookahSqueeze) contain nicotine; But there are also nicotine-free versions.
HookahSqueezeAroma-soaked mineral stones without tobacco and nicotine - tobacco substitute for the head.
Tobacco based on strong Burley: intense taste and more nicotine than Virginia. Not for beginners.
Dark Blend FinderRubber or silicone ring that makes connections (bowl, adapter, hose connection) airtight. Leaky seals = bad draft.
Attachment on the dip tube that divides the smoke into fine bubbles - for quieter bubbling and a softer hit.
Electronic device that vaporizes flavored liquid (≈ vape) – not to be confused with the electric shisha.
VapesShisha made of stainless steel: durable, tasteless and easy to clean.
Stainless steel hookahsClassic shisha with electric heat controller (e-HMD) instead of coal - e.g. B. the XKAH Pro, completely without carbon monoxide.
XKAH ProHomemade tobacco bowl made from a hollowed out fruit (e.g. pineapple or apple) - a summer DIY project.
Humectant in tobacco, which causes smoke to develop. More glycerin = denser clouds.
Controlling the amount and position of the coal so that the tobacco is optimally heated and not burned.
Structure & HeatMetal attachment with lid that holds the coal and regulates the heat - replaces aluminum foil. Also called a “smokebox”.
SmokeboxesInternational term for the shisha (water pipe).
Metal attachment with ventilation holes for the tape head - the precursor to the smokebox.
Charcoal from coconut shells: burns for a long time and has a neutral taste, must be actively simmered - standard for good taste.
CoalDevice for annealing coal – electric (for indoors) or with gas (for outdoors).
IgniterMesh basket for glowing and transporting several coals, especially when on the move.
Tool for safely gripping, placing and turning glowing coals.
The vessel on top of the shisha that holds the tobacco - made of clay, silicone or as a phunnel/multi-hole bowl.
HeadsTraditional hose with leather cover (Tradi-Shishas). Important: must NOT be cleaned wet.
Tobacco head with several bottom holes - popular for dark blend ("Russian style"), usually with smokebox.
Multi-hole headsViscous mixture of glycerin, flavoring and sugar syrup with which the raw tobacco is soaked.
Collection vessel between the head and the smoke column, which catches any molasses that drips through.
Molasses catcherEnd piece of the hose – often used as an attachable hygiene mouthpiece for smoking in a group.
Addictive substance in tobacco. Virginia contains little, Dark Blend significantly more; There are also nicotine-free alternatives.
VarietiesCirculatory reaction (dizziness, nausea, heart palpitations) to too much nicotine - counteract this with fresh air, water and a little sugar.
Packing technology in which the tobacco is loosely filled beyond the edge of the bowl (with HMD) - for a more intense taste.
Particularly thick aluminum foil (approx. 40 µm); one layer replaces several layers of normal film.
Tobacco head with a central, raised hole - holds the molasses particularly well, ideal with a smokebox.
Phunnel headsThe vertical middle pipe of the shisha that connects the bowl and bowl.
Setup consisting of a multi-hole head and HMD, typical for strong dark blend enjoyment.
Connection between shisha and mouthpiece - today mostly made of silicone (can be boiled), classically made of leather.
HosesCoal with ignition powder that ignites itself with a lighter - practical, but weaker in taste than natural charcoal.
Metal sieve as a reusable alternative to aluminum foil on the head.
Bowl that is plugged onto the smoke column (not screwed) - quick change, fits over the seal.
The pipe that protrudes from the column of smoke into the water of the Bowl; it should dip about 1-2 cm.
Classic tobacco bowl made of fired clay - operated with aluminum foil or chimney attachment.
EU Tobacco Directive, which, among other things, Packaging sizes, warnings and ingredients are regulated.
When you pull, a negative pressure is created in the bowl, which sucks the smoke through the water - the basic principle of the shisha.
Small ball in the check valve that enables blow-off and prevents secondary air.
Mild, slightly sweet basic tobacco with little nicotine – ideal for beginners.
Tobacco knowledgeGerman term for shisha.
Filling height in the bowl: The dip tube should be 1-2 cm under water so that the draw is correct.
Cover over the coal, which ensures stable burning and spark protection outdoors.
Wind coverElectric shisha or e-charcoal line (HMD) from HookahX: Heat without real coal and without carbon monoxide.
XKAH ProHow “difficult” the shisha is to pull – influenced by the water level, diffuser, number of hoses and tightness.
Deepen each term in our detailed guides & advisors.