Snuff tobacco has been around for centuries and is used for various purposes. Tobacco-containing products are often promoted as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes, but how harmful is the consumption of this type of tobacco really and what long-term effects should consumers expect? I want to explore the effects of snuff tobacco and explain the advantages and disadvantages.
What exactly is snuff tobacco?
Although snuff tobacco was introduced to Europe in the 17th century, records confirm that the product was used much earlier in Latin American cultures. Indigenous peoples sniffed tobacco as part of their rituals, and sailors brought it to Europe. Here, it was initially used as a royal remedy for headaches and migraines and was only available in pharmacies for a long time. In Germany, there is now a wide variety of snuff tobacco manufacturers. Snuff tobacco is made from fermented tobacco and is obtained from the dried leaves of the tobacco plant. After maturation, it is mixed and ground with various aroma blends. Oil is used to keep the tobacco moist. Fermentation and drying processes vary depending on the manufacturer. Recently, tobacco-free products are also being sold. It is called white snuff tobacco and usually consists of glucose and menthol.
What is the effect of snuff tobacco?
Snuff tobacco contains nicotine, just like cigarettes. Nicotine causes various psychological and physical phenomena that lead to a stimulating and activating effect. Nicotine suppresses negative emotions such as anxiety and tension, while simultaneously activating the reward system in the brain and sending positive signals such as relaxation. The addition of a base enhances the physical and mental effects of snuff tobacco and facilitates absorption. Upon initial use, snuff tobacco can cause unpleasant reactions such as nausea and dizziness.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of snuff tobacco?
Unlike cigarettes, snuff tobacco does not burn during consumption, and no toxic substances such as tar or condensate are used in its production. Since there is no smoke, snuff tobacco can be used in places where smoking is prohibited, without disturbing your surroundings. This also means that the products are biodegradable and therefore have minimal impact on the environment.
When comparing the long-term effects of snuff tobacco with those of cigarettes, this product is indeed a less harmful alternative to cigarettes. However, snuff tobacco is not completely immune to harmful side effects. The most common complaints include irritation of the nasal mucosa and unpleasant discharge. There is no evidence yet that snuff tobacco can cause cancer. Although the carcinogenic effect of nicotine is widely discussed today, it has never been proven as a cancer-causing factor - it is mostly the byproducts of combustion, such as tar, carbon monoxide, etc., that are responsible for cancer. Nicotine can also cause headaches, coughing, and gastrointestinal issues.
Advantages at a glance:
- No combustion.
- Does not disturb the surroundings.
- No toxic substances like tar are used.
- Environmentally friendly.
Disadvantages at a glance:
- Can cause inflammation of the nasal mucosa.
- Can be addictive.
- May cause other symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, and nausea.
What alternatives are there to snuff tobacco?
The most likely smokeless tobacco product is chewing tobacco. Chewing tobacco is loose or packaged tobacco powder. Place it under your upper lip when consuming, and the effect takes place within seconds. The nicotine content varies depending on the variety, and you can try both strong and mild products. Chewing tobacco does not burn like snuff tobacco and is a less harmful alternative to cigarettes.
Conclusion - An alternative form of tobacco consumption
Snuff tobacco is one of the oldest forms of consuming tobacco plant leaves. It is made by adding substances such as flavors and oils to fermented tobacco powder. Both products contain nicotine, so the effect of snuff tobacco is similar to that of cigarettes.
