Tobacco in Indigenous cultures of Canada has been common in religious practices and rituals, and still is today. There are also Native smokes today that are being considered as a natural form of smoking in a market that commercial cigarettes dominate. But what sets them apart, and are they better for you?
What Native Smokes Are
Native smoke or Native cigarettes are usually manufactured in indigenous reserves. They tend to use traditional techniques that involve less processing than new-fashioned cigarettes. This has made some smokers consider them as purer substitutes.
How Do They Vary from Commercial Cigarettes?
One of the largest differences lies in how they are created. Most tobacco products readily available in the market contain additives. These additives help to add flavour and extend the product’s shelf life.
Native smoke, as the name suggests, may contain fewer or no additives compared to commercial smoke. This, in turn, creates a purer tobacco smoking experience.
Moreover, there are other reasons why Canadians prefer purchasing Native cigarettes online. These reasons include the difference in prices and the quality of the product.
Are Native Smokes Safer?
Even though these cigarettes might be Native smokes free of additives, they still contain nicotine and tar. These substances are not safe, no matter how natural their source may be. These products are often marketed as ‘less processed’ or ‘natural.’ However, they are not completely without their risks.
Why Consider Native Smokes?
It is important to note that Canadians consume Native smoke for reasons other than the health consequences. Some say they want to back Indigenous businesses and understand the cultural significance of tobacco use. Some love the stronger taste and smoother draw mentioned by some users as compared to other vaping devices.
Another factor is price, as Native smokes can be cheaper because they benefit from tax breaks in many reserves. Unfortunately, that cultural aspect and cost difference could potentially make them even more appealing.
What to Consider Before You Make the Switch
Consumers who want to quit using commercial cigarettes should switch to Native smokes. Compared to commercial, native smokes are safer and have fewer health risks.
However, it is important to understand why you want to quit if you’re a smoker. Plus, keep the following things in mind before you make a switch:
- These smokes don’t just have nicotine. They can also be addictive sometimes.
- Lung cancer is preventable, and no cigarette is safe. This is regardless of how products are marketed or advertised.
- Don’t blindly make the decision to buy without being aware of the health consequences.
In conclusion, Native smokes remain a better alternative to commercial cigarettes. To some people, they represent tradition, roots, and advocacy. However, it is not a health product, and consumers should not think of it as such.
Still, if your interest is personal, make sure you get your facts straight. For instance, do you want to minimize your tobacco consumption?
If so, talk to your healthcare provider. Knowledge is key to making the right decisions concerning your well-being.
