Snuff and stuff
Posted by Margaret on October 19, 1997 at 16:33:17:
In response to Snuff, written by Inko on October 19, 1997 at 15:51:41
] Does anybody know whether taking snuff was meant to have any effect--such as getting "high" or a buzz? Or was it only a means of providing a good sneeze?? Any information on snuff would be very welcome! Thanks, Inko
Inko, I imagine that using snuff gave one the same buzz as smoking a cigarette. Snuff is made (according to my 1959 Brittanica) with fire-cured leaf and stems. The nicotine content of fire-cured leaves is high (4 to 4.5%). The nasal snuff was of a very fine grind and its nicotine content could be absorbed easily by the lining of the nasal passages. Nowadays, those who use snuff place a pinch between their cheek and gum. I have a brother-in-law who quit smoking by switching to this smokeless tobacco form. (And before the rush of condemnation-----I know he's at greater risk of oral and throat cancer and I think his habit is nasty.) If one can satisfy a nicotine craving by placing tobacco in the mouth, it seems reasonable that snuffing it would also provide a way of getting nicotine into the bloodstream. Finally, I imagine the tendency to sneeze would disappear as the nasal passages grew accustomed to this frequent assault.
Margaret
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