Nicotiana rustica

Many Indigenous peoples use tobacco as a sacred medicinal plant in ceremonial and cultural practices, often for the purposes of promoting physical, spiritual, emotional, and community well-being.

The smoke is seen as carrying thoughts and intentions to the spirit world. It’s often used as an offering to show respect to the Creator or to another person, place, and as part of ceremonies. For the Haudenosaunee of present-day New York State, tobacco is used to maintain a connection to the Sky World by conveying intentions and messages for the people.

Traditional tobacco has been used to treat ailments such as pain, wounds, respiratory issues and insect bites.