Gaza Smokers Risk Health with Homemade Molokhia Cigarettes as Tobacco Prices Skyrocket

As tobacco prices soar in Gaza, some smokers are turning to a dangerous homemade alternative: cigarettes made from dried molokhia leaves mixed with nicotine. This toxic substitute, known as "molokhia cigarettes," poses severe health risks, including respiratory damage and poisoning, due to the plant's natural toxins and unknown chemical reactions when burned. The trend highlights the desperation of residents facing economic hardship under the ongoing blockade, with many unable to afford commercial cigarettes. Health officials warn that these makeshift cigarettes are not a safe alternative, urging people to seek support for smoking cessation instead.