October 3rd, 2022 | Updated on January 23rd, 2023
Tobacco smoking is a leading cause of preventable disease and early death in Canada, and it’s not just smokers who are at risk. Passive smoking, also known as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), is the inhalation of smoke from burning tobacco products. It is as dangerous for everyone as tobacco smoking. Every year in Canada, about 800 deaths occur due to secondhand smoke.
In the United States, tobacco smoking kills more people than AIDS, alcohol abuse, car accidents, slayings, and suicides combined. Indeed, smoking, or even mere exposure to secondhand smoke, can put you at risk for life-threatening diseases and illnesses.
Because of this, people have been trying to find better replacements to resist tobacco cravings. This article gives an overview of six of the best plants and herbs ideal as tobacco alternatives:
1. Lavender
Lavender, a purple herb often used in aromatherapy, is a calming alternative to tobacco. It has a sweet, floral scent that can help clear your mind and relax your body. No wonder many use it to promote better sleep. Unlike tobacco, lavender is not known to have adverse health effects and can even benefit your mental health.
Many people find lavender an excellent substitute for the nicotine buzz from smoking tobacco. You can smoke lavender straight, or mix it with other herbs for a more potent smoke.
2. Mugwort
Mugwort, or Artemisia vulgaris, is a plant used for centuries in traditional Chinese and European medicine. Its leaves and flowers – when smoked – are said to induce a mild euphoria and help with sleep problems. People also brew mugwort into tea, which is said to help with menstrual cramps, anxiety, and insomnia.
Mugwort has a sweet and spicy taste. Unlike tobacco, mugwort is not addictive and has no adverse health effects. This plant is easy to find in many herbal shops and even easier to grow at home.
3. Sage
Sage has been beloved for centuries because of its cleansing and healing properties. The smoke from sage is said to remove negative energy and purify the aura. Burning sage is a popular way to cleanse and bless a home. Many people use it for smudging before meditation or prayer.
Sage is also an effective way to clear away tobacco and other unpleasant odors. The smoke has a pleasant, earthy smell, which makes one feel connected with nature. Some people find sage a bit overwhelming to smoke on its own. Still, it is an excellent option if you’re looking for an alternative to tobacco smoking.
4. Marijuana
Marijuana is often thought of as a gateway drug, but many people are now beginning to see it as a viable alternative to tobacco smoking. Medical experts have found marijuana to have various medicinal benefits, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and nausea reduction.
Marijuana is also non-toxic and non-carcinogenic, meaning it doesn’t cause any health problems associated with tobacco smoke. Marijuana may even have some health benefits, such as protecting against Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.
5. Hemp
Hemp is one of the oldest plants known to man and has been used for over 10,000 years. Hemp is a versatile plant for various purposes, including food, fuel, fiber, and medicine. Hemp is also non-toxic and non-addictive, making it a safe and ideal tobacco substitute.
When finding a safe and healthy alternative to tobacco, hemp is the best option. The plant contains the chemical CBD, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Hemp is rich in terpenes, chemical compounds that are thought to have anti-cancer and anti-anxiety effects.
A Shrub Like No Other
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a small shrub found in Mexico and South America. The leaves and flowers of the damiana plant are often dried; they are smoked or brewed into tea. Damiana has a sweet, earthy taste and is said to have a relaxing effect. It’s also said to boost libido and improve sexual function.
Damiana is not as potent as tobacco but offers some of the same benefits. Damiana smokers consume it alone or blend it with other herbs. Damiana is another good option if you’re looking for an alternative to tobacco.
Conclusion
Tobacco smoking is a practice that has been around for centuries, but it’s known to have many adverse health effects. If you’re a smoker worried about risking your health, now is the time to consider alternatives to tobacco.
Many plants and herbs make great tobacco alternatives, including lavender, mugwort, marijuana, damiana, and hemp. Most of them you can get online, but make sure you get them from credible suppliers to get top-quality products. All these plants have unique characteristics, so it’s essential to do your research before choosing an alternative that fits you.
Image Source: unsplash.com
Health Disclaimer :
Information provided by Newszii.com does in no way substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Any text, videos, or any other material provided by us should be considered general information only. Any health-related information may vary from person to person, hence we advise you to consult specialists for more information.
