Smoking is an ancient practice that was part of the ceremonial traditions of many Native cultures. Habitual smoking, in contrast, lacks the intention, respect, and reverence of these traditions, where tobacco and other herbs were smoked prayerfully, as spiritual medicine.
As you enjoy this smoke blend, take a quiet moment from the busyness of your life to make it a mindful ritual.
This herbal smoking blend is tobacco free and non-addictive. It has a pleasant flavor and is crafted with a relaxing blend of herbs.
Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) leaf was one of the plants used by Native Americans in their herbal smoking mixtures, called “Kinnikinnick.” It smokes well and adds body to the blend.
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has a delicious flavor and a relaxing, uplifting, and mildly euphoric effect.
Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus) adds body to the blend and is restorative to the lungs. It can be helpful for long-term smokers, helping to cleanse the lungs and bring up congestion.
Skullcap (Scutellaria Lateriflora) is mildly sedative, helping to promote relaxation.
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) has a cheery, uplifting effect.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) adds delicious flavor and is calming to the mind. It also aids in relaxing muscles, helping to ease tension.
To craft this blend, you will need:
- 2 parts raspberry leaf
- 2 parts damiana
- 1 part mullein
- 1 part skullcap
- 1 part St. John’s wort
- 1 part lavender
Combine the herbs in a bowl & then store in a glass jar. If the herbs are too dry, the smoke will be harsh, so add a bit of moisture, if necessary, by misting the herbs lightly with a spray bottle. Herbalist, jim mcdonald, recommends adding a slice of apple or pear to the container that’s holding the mixture for a little while to help add moisture. Just be careful not to get the herbs too wet before storing, as this will cause them to mold.
This blend can be utilized to help treat nicotine addiction. Just mix the herbs with tobacco, slowing adding less over time, until eventually you taper completely off of it.
Please note: while this blend is certainly healthier than chemically-laced cigarettes, smoking should be practiced in moderation, rather than utilized as a regular vice or coping mechanism. As Paracelsus, an early 16th century physician & alchemist, said, “the dose makes the poison.”
References
Brounstein, Howie. “Herbal Smoking Mixtures.” Columbines School of Botanical Studies. botanicalstudies.net
McBride, Nome. “Herbal Smoking Mixes.” Traditional Roots Institute.
mcdonald, jim. “kinnikinnick…” herbcraft.org
Nikki. (2013) “Make Your Own Natural Herbal Smoke Blend!” Harmony Herbals.
Nikki. (2013) “The Best Natural Smoking Herbs.” Harmony Herbals.
Nikki. (2013) “25 Natural Dried Herbs to Vaporize.” Harmony Herbals.
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