Traditional Tobacco

A True Medicine

Traditional tobacco holds deep cultural significance for American Indian communities. A sacred gift, the tobacco plant has spiritual and medicinal uses among Indigenous peoples. Traditional tobacco connects individuals to their ancestors, the land, and the Creator.

While various* tribes and Indian nations have different histories, traditions, and practices with tobacco plants, there is a clear commonality: proper use¹ of sacred tobacco does not lead to addiction or poor health, like commercial tobacco.

Unlike commercial tobacco, traditional tobacco is not mass-produced or chemically altered. It is grown, harvested, and prepared with care, often incorporating other sacred herbs and plants.

Traditional tobacco has been gathered by Indigenous groups for medicinal, spiritual, and ceremonial needs for centuries. Among many Tribes, the belief that the smoke from burned tobacco passes prayers to the Creator. Traditional tobacco is carefully and respectfully prepared by hand, burned in a fire or smoked by pipe, and is usually not inhaled. Used during prayer, smudging ceremonies, and offered as gifts or trade, traditional tobacco contributes to spiritual and physical health and wellbeing. Traditional tobacco fosters community bonds, serving as a bridge between generations and reinforcing cultural identity.

*Not all² Native Tribes burn tobacco leaves in cultural practices.