For thousands of years, Tobacco [occasionally mixed with hallucinogens and/or herbs]  has played a curative and religious role in Caribbean, Aztec, Mayan, Incan and other indigenous American populations.

North, South, and Central American Indians used Tobacco for:

·         Religious and Ceremonial purposes (smoke was believed to help communicate with the Gods).

·         Healing open wounds with Tobacco leaves.

·         Chewing to relieve toothaches and application to the brow for headaches.

·         Europeans discovered that Tobacco reduced hunger and increased mental alertness and physical stamina.

Modern science tells us that Nicotine is an alkaloid which produces certain physiological effects in humans and animals.  Nicotine is found in Tobacco plants, and to a lesser degree in tomatoes, green peppers, potatoes, and eggplant.  The general effects of Nicotine are biphasic: initially it is mentally invigorating, and then it leads to a relaxing effect.  In small doses, Nicotine increases alertness, concentration, and enhances mental performance. Today we know that Nicotine protects against Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s, and can help treat Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD, Schizophrenia, epilepsy, and possibly rheumatoid arthritis and colorectal cancer.  New discoveries are being made every year about the beneficial effects of Nicotine, but these benefits are usually overshadowed in the public domain by Smokerism and anti-smoke hysteria.  Fortunately, we know that Stress Kills, and the greatest benefit from luxury tobacco comes from its relaxing effects!

                 ENHANCED CONTENT:  Taste College:  Nicotine