In their quest for relaxation and a deeper connection with nature, many individuals are turning to smokable herbs. These natural substances offer a holistic experience, combining unique flavors and potential therapeutic effects. From ancient rituals to modern practices, smoking herbs has been cherished across cultures. The criteria used for this list include an herb’s popularity, safety, attainability, smokability, flavor (we wanted to include some of the best-tasting herbs to smoke), and versatility (how many things it can be enjoyably used for). The natural herbs on this list have not been shown to be habit-forming and are generally considered safe for healthy adults. Now let’s take a look at our top 10 best smokable herbs.

1. Damiana:
Originating from Central and South America, damiana is renowned for its mild mood-lifting and calming properties. When used as a stress reliever, damiana may provide a gentle, soothing experience.

2. Mullein:
Mullein leaves have a long history of medicinal use. When smoked, they are believed to ease respiratory issues, making them an excellent choice for those seeking lung support and relaxation.

3. Lavender:
Known for its delightful fragrance, lavender offers calming effects that help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Smoking lavender provides a subtle floral flavor, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

4. Mugwort:
Mugwort has deep roots in herbal medicine and folklore. It is often used in smoking blends to possibly enhance relaxation and stimulate vivid dreams, making it popular among those interested in lucid dreaming.

5. Blue Lotus:
Considered sacred in various cultures, blue lotus has mild mood-lifting properties that are said to induce a sense of tranquility and well-being. It is commonly used for its relaxation, making it a favorite among herbal enthusiasts.

6. Skullcap:
Skullcap is renowned for its potential calming effects. When smoked, it provides a subtle, relaxing experience without causing drowsiness, making it ideal for unwinding after a long day.

7. Wild Lettuce:
Wild lettuce is said to have mild calming properties, providing a sense of relaxation and calmness. It may also be used in tea to possibly alleviate mild pain.

8. Rosemary:
Beyond its culinary uses, rosemary is occasionally smoked for its potential soothing effect on the respiratory system. It offers a robust flavor and is often included in herbal smoking blends for its aromatic qualities.

9. Passionflower:
Passionflower is celebrated for its calming properties and may be used to alleviate insomnia and anxiety. When smoked, it is said to deliver a sense of well-being, making it a popular choice for relaxation and stress relief.

10. Sage:
Sage has a rich cultural history and is renowned for its cleansing properties. When smoked, it provides a grounding experience, making it popular in spiritual rituals and relaxation practices.

Blending and smoking herbs can be a rewarding and enriching experience. However, it’s essential to approach these herbs with respect and understanding. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, stress relief, help with anxiety, or a deeper spiritual connection, these smokable herbs offer a natural and holistic way to potentially enhance your well-being. As with any substance, it’s crucial to practice moderation and seek guidance from knowledgeable sources to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

More scientific research and study is needed to fully verify the effectiveness of any medicinal claims attributed to these herbs. Please also keep in mind that habitual smoking has been shown to be hazardous to your health.

Introduction

Plant family: Nymphaeaceae
Genus: Nymphaea
Plant Species: Caerulea, Nouchaliivar. Var. Caeruleaa
Common Names: Egyptian Blue Lotus, Blue Water Lily, Sacred Lily of the Nile

In the realm of ancient civilizations and mythical folklore, few flowers have captured the human imagination quite like the Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea). Revered for its enchanting beauty and symbolic significance, the blue lotus has a rich history that spans thousands of years. From the banks of the Nile to the heart of ancient Indian cultures, the blue lotus has woven itself into the tapestry of human heritage, leaving behind a legacy of mystique and reverence.

Ancient Origins

The blue lotus is native to the Nile region of Egypt and was a prominent feature in ancient Egyptian mythology. Often depicted in hieroglyphics and artifacts, the flower was associated with the sun god Ra and believed to bring about spiritual enlightenment. The Ancient Egyptians used the blue lotus in religious ceremonies, believing it had the power to enhance meditation and provide a sense of enjoyment.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Throughout history, the blue lotus has symbolized different concepts in various cultures. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the lotus flower, in general, represents purity and enlightenment. The blue lotus, with its striking blue petals, is often associated with a victory of the spirit over the senses, wisdom, and knowledge. Its presence in religious texts and sculptures signifies divine beauty and spiritual awakening.

The Blue Lotus in Ancient Texts

References to the blue lotus can be found in ancient texts such as the Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. In these verses, the lotus is described as a symbol of purity and enlightenment, emphasizing the importance of rising above the murky waters of materialism to attain spiritual clarity.

Influence on Art and Architecture

The captivating allure of the blue lotus has influenced art and architecture across centuries. In ancient Egyptian art, the flower was a common motif in paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. Similarly, in Indian and Southeast Asian art, the blue lotus is a recurring theme in temple carvings and paintings, embodying divine grace and transcendence.

Medicinal and Ritualistic Uses

Beyond its cultural and symbolic significance, the blue lotus also boasts medicinal properties. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and the Mayans, used the flower for its potential therapeutic effects. It was believed to have calming and aphrodisiac properties and was often used in medicinal preparations and rituals.

Rediscovery and Modern Fascination

In the modern era, the blue lotus has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Its medicinal properties have piqued the interest of researchers and enthusiasts alike. Some believe that the ancient Egyptians used the flower as a relaxant, while others explore its potential as a natural remedy for various ailments.

Additionally, the blue lotus continues to be a popular motif in contemporary art, jewelry, and literature. Its timeless beauty and deep historical roots make it a subject of fascination for artists and historians seeking to unravel the mysteries of ancient civilizations.

Identification

Blue lotus flowers are the most distinctive feature. They are usually large, with sky-blue or bluish-white petals. The petals are broad and oval and have a pleasant fragrance, often described as sweet and floral. This fragrance is more pronounced in the evening, attracting insects like beetles for pollination. The leaves of the blue lotus (lily pads) float on the surface of the water and are round and flat, with purple coloring on the bottom. They can be quite large, sometimes reaching up to 18 inches in diameter. The leaves have a waxy texture that helps them repel water. Blue lotus plants have long stems that connect the leaves and flowers to the rhizome (underground stem). The rhizome of the blue lotus is an underground stem that anchors the plant and stores nutrients. It is typically brownish and grows horizontally beneath the soil or mud at the bottom of the water body.

Cultivation

Blue lotus plants require warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight to thrive and are most often found in tropical or subtropical climates. The plant grows in shallow water and should be submerged in about six to twelve inches of water, preferably in a pond or a container filled with rich, slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.5) soil below the water.

Blue lotus seeds should be sown directly in the soil of a pond or water garden.

Blue lotus plants should be pruned regularly to promote the growth of new leaves and flowers and remove dead or decaying leaves.

Blue lotus leaves and flowers are harvested. The flowers are normally harvested when they are in full bloom to prevent insects from being trapped in the flowers.

Modern Use

In the modern world, blue lotus is being used for many different things, and the ways people are finding to use the plant seem to be growing at a steady pace.

Blue lotus has a long history of recorded use in herbal medicine and is still used in natural remedies today. There are currently scientific studies that indicate the potential for blue lotus in natural medicine. However, more scientific research and study is needed to fully verify any medicinal claims and the effectiveness of blue lotus in herbal medicine.

Herbal Medicine

In today’s world, blue lotus is often used as a natural remedy for stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It is believed to have mild relaxation properties, helping individuals relax and unwind. Some users claim that blue lotus promotes a sense of overall well-being, making it popular among individuals looking for a natural mood enhancer. Some individuals use blue lotus for its purported ability to enhance memory, focus, and concentration. However, scientific research on this topic is limited, and individual responses can vary widely.

The blue lotus has an extensive history of use by Ayurveda Health Practitioners but it is important to note that Nymphaea Stellata (the blue lotus of India) is most commonly used in Ayurveda Medicine, not Nymphaea Caerulea.

Aphrodisiac

Blue lotus has a historical reputation as an aphrodisiac, and some people use it to enhance sexual experiences and increase libido.

Fragrance and Aromatherapy

Blue lotus extract is used in aromatherapy due to its pleasant fragrance. It is sometimes incorporated into scented candles, essential oils, and perfumes, providing a calming and soothing aroma.

Skin Care

Blue lotus contains antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage. Free radicals can accelerate the aging process and contribute to skin problems. Skincare products containing blue lotus may claim to have anti-aging properties due to these antioxidants. Blue lotus extract is sometimes used in skincare formulations for its hydrating and soothing properties. Products like lotions, serums, and masks may include blue lotus to enhance their hydrating effects. Blue lotus may have anti-inflammatory properties. Skincare products containing blue lotus may be marketed as suitable for individuals with skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.

Teas and Infusions

Dried blue lotus flowers are often used to make herbal teas and infusions. The tea is prepared by steeping the flowers in hot water. Some people find the tea relaxing and use it as a bedtime drink.

Smoking

Some individuals smoke or vaporize the dried flowers, as they are said to aid in relaxation.

Ceremonial Use

The blue lotus is still to this day used in some spiritual and ceremonial practices. It is valued for its symbolism and is sometimes incorporated into rituals, meditation practices, and religious ceremonies.

Conclusion

The blue lotus, with its captivating hue and profound symbolism, stands as a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and the natural world. Across cultures and millennia, this exquisite flower has inspired awe, reverence, and creativity. As we continue to uncover its historical significance and rediscover its hidden properties, the blue lotus remains a source of wonder, inviting us to delve deeper into the realms of spirituality, art, and ancient wisdom.

It’s important to note that while blue lotus has a long history of use in traditional medicine and religious rituals, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is limited. If you are considering using blue lotus for any purpose, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is safe for you.

A simple and natural program that may help someone stop smoking tobacco habitually.

It only requires loose rolling tobacco (someone could gather this from their favorite brand of cigarettes), rolling papers, a cigarette rolling machine, lavender flowers, honeyweed leaf and lobelia leaf. Menthol smokers or some non-menthol smokers may also want to mix in some field mint leaf, as it has the strongest concentration of menthol among herbs in the mint family.

If you have never rolled your own cigarettes, don’t worry. You will get the hang of it quickly, or you may use cones if you are uncomfortable rolling them.

The purpose of this program is to assist someone in weaning off of tobacco and help minimize the eventual withdrawal symptoms.

Step One: Prepare yourself to start replacing tobacco.

The first part of the program will help the smoker become less familiar with the taste and flavor of smoking tobacco.

Start blending a small amount of lavender petals into your rolling tobacco. Lavender flowers are potent, so it requires very little to start with. As you become used to the flavor of lavender, start adding a little more. If lavender does not suit you, cornflowers can be used.

Step Two: Begin replacing the tobacco and weaning off of it.

Once you become accustomed to smoking the lavender-flavored tobacco, you can start adding in a small amount of honeyweed leaf. Honeyweed is a stimulant that may also aid in relaxation and has been used to help with symptoms of withdrawal. If honeyweed does not suit you, damiana may be used.

As you become more accustomed to smoking the mixture of tobacco, honeyweed and lavender, start adding in a higher percentage of honeyweed leaf.

There is no need to rush any of these steps. However, this is your program, and you control how fast or slowly it advances.

Step Three: Continue replacing the tobacco and begin getting accustomed to the herb that can help relive withdrawal symptoms.

Start adding a very small amount of lobelia leaf. Lobelia leaf contains lobeline which shares many characteristics with nicotine and has been shown to help with withdrawal symptoms from long-term habitual smoking. You must only add a very small amount because it can also dampen the effects of nicotine, which may increase your cravings for it.

Continue to reduce the percentage of tobacco and increase the amount of honeyweed leaf.

Step Four: Fully discontinue the use of tobacco.

When you feel ready, create a mixture of honeyweed leaf, lobelia leaf and a small amount of lavender petals. Slowly add in more lobelia leaf as you go forward.

If you are able to avoid smoking for intervals of a couple of hours, and you are feeling heavy cravings for tobacco, you can use a Step Three Mixture when things get bad. Adding a higher percentage of lobelia leaf to your non-tobacco mixture may also help. However, at this point, the goal is to completely quit smoking tobacco and not slip backwards. Most importantly, do not give up!

This is a very simple program because, in many cases, simplicity works best. The herbs in this program have no addictive qualities, so they will not aid in your dependency. You may choose to research and experiment with other herbs during the program or after to have something to smoke when you have a craving. Years of smoking can become habit-forming in more ways than one. It can also become a routine, having something you can go to that is not habit-forming can help fill that void.

There have been many testimonials online from people who claim to have been able to wean themselves off tobacco with the help of natural herbs. This program is intended to show someone without experience with herbs and natural remedies how they may go about doing it. 

You can rid yourself of tobacco addiction, and you will if you keep trying!

In doing research for this article, I discovered what I felt to be some interesting and widely disseminated misconceptions. The term “tobacco alternative” is most often used to describe another option to smoking or chewing tobacco. Yet, it is often assumed that it is describing a substitute for nicotine. Wouldn’t that be a “nicotine alternative”? For example, simply using the term “tobacco alternative” can be a violation of some search engines’ shopping category policies. When doing a search under the term “tobacco alternatives,” in the first 25 results, I found only one result that was a tobacco-free smoking or tea blend. The rest of the results led to information about tobacco, nicotine alternatives, or chewing tobacco alternatives. I found it odd because there are so many non-addictive natural herbal alternatives to smoking tobacco. Let’s talk a little bit about tobacco. Unburned tobacco leaf has been shown to contain 37 compounds classified as carcinogens. Tobacco smoke contains up to 80 compounds classified as carcinogens (1). Did you know that around 90 percent of people with oral cancer use tobacco, and 40% of all cancers diagnosed in the US can be linked to tobacco (2)? Smoking cigarettes can be linked to over 80% of lung cancer deaths. Not to mention, tobacco is much more addictive than almost any commonly used herb. Tobacco is widely used, but so are many other herbs. More people use other herbs for herbal tea, remedies and food dishes than use tobacco, and almost none have been cited as having the health risks associated with tobacco. There are some herbs that can be dangerous, but they are rarely used in herbal products or food and should never be. Smoking a hookah is said to be just as bad as smoking cigarettes because more smoke is inhaled. So wouldn’t smoking non-addictive herbs be less harmful than tobacco because someone would potentially smoke less? Putting herbs that can be smoked or chewed as an alternative to tobacco in the same category as tobacco has little basis in fact. Most are far less addictive and have nowhere near the potential negative side effects of tobacco. Some herbs can have side effects, exacerbate current medical conditions, or interfere with medications. Please fully research any herbs you plan on consuming. 

Many herbs can be chewed and smoked, tobacco is not the only option. Here is a list of some popular herbs that have a history of being used as alternatives to tobacco.

Coltsfoot Leaf and Flowers

Botanical Name: Tussilago Farfara
Plant Family: Asteraceae
Also Called: British Tobacco, Tash Plant, Ass’s Foot, Bull’s Foot, Coughwort, Farfara, Foal’s Foot, Foalswort and Horse Foot.

This is a great place to start. Not only has coltsfoot (British Tobacco) been used as a smoking herb for hundreds of years, but it is also used to reduce congestion from cold and flu symptoms. Coltsfoot is a slightly harsh smoke but has a pleasant, clean aftertaste, slightly resembling menthol.

However, like tobacco, coltsfoot has been shown to contain chemicals that can cause health issues, like pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can negatively affect the liver and may cause birth defects. The flowers are used in Chinese Medicine with clear warnings regarding use during pregnancy or for people who are on medications, drink alcohol or have liver problems.

Because of these concerns, many herbal practitioners recommend other options like Garlic (Allium Sativum), Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra), Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) or Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) to assist with congestion and other cold and flu symptoms (1).

It should be noted that there is not enough clinical evidence at this time to determine the potential side effects of inhaling coltsfoot.

Mullein Leaf

Botanical Name: Verbascum Thapsus
Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae
Also Called: Lungwort, Hedge Taper, Candlewick, Feltwort, Hare’s-Beard, Torches, Blanketleaf, Jacob’s, Jupiter’s,  or Peter’s Staff,  velvetplant,  Old Man’s Flannel and  Miner’s Candle.

Mullein (Lungwort) has been used for hundreds of years and has been shown to be quite safe. Most negative side effects from mullein are allergic reactions to the plant. It is mainly used to relieve inflammation and congestion from cold and flu symptoms.  Mullein leaves and flowers are also commonly smoked and used as tea.

When smoked, Mullein can be slightly harsh and does not have a great flavor, but it is not all that bad either. Many people do find it a relaxing smoke. The leaves of mullein are very fluffy and have fluffy little hairs on them that cause them to stick together, making it challenging to mix with other herbs.

Lobelia Leaf

Botanical name: Lobelia Inflata
Plant family: Campanulaceae
Also called: Indian Tobacco, Eyebright, Asthma Weed, Bladderpod, Puke Weed, Gagroot and Vomitroot.

Lobelia is a famous and widely used smoking herb also known as Indian tobacco that contains the active compound Lobeline. Lobeline and nicotine both agonistically activate nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Meaning that in low doses they act as a stimulant, and in high doses they act as a depressant (1).

Both lobeline and tobacco will also induce vomiting if taken in larger doses.

Strangely, lobeline does not share the addictive qualities of nicotine. Lobelia is not a habit-forming herb like tobacco and is currently used in products that ease the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.

It is believed that lobelia may lessen the effects of nicotine when smoked with tobacco, so mixing them may not be recommended. 

Lobelia would best be used as an alternative to smoking tobacco after someone has stopped smoking it and is dealing with withdrawal symptoms.

When smoked, lobelia leaf is mildly harsh and of average flavor, and it is often used in tobacco-free smoking mixtures.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, tobacco sensitivity, paralysis, seizure disorder, shortness of breath, and those recovering from shock should not take lobelia (2).

Mugwort Leaf

Botanical name: Artemisia Vulgaris
Plant family: Asteraceae
Also called: Sailor’s Tobacco, Mother of Herbs, Felon Herb, Sweet Wormwood and St. John’s plant.

Mugwort is called sailor’s tobacco because it was smoked by sailors in lieu of tobacco on long voyages. As documented in The Flora Altaica, 1829–33.

Mugwort is both a nervine sedative and a nervine stimulant, meaning it is said to calm the nerves while increasing energy (1). I often have mugwort tea, and it seems to wake me up while also making me feel a bit more at ease.

When smoked, mugwort has a strong flavor but is not harsh. Because of its fluffy consistency, it is best suited for a pipe or dry herb vaporizer. This also makes it difficult to blend with other herbs. It is a slightly bitter tea.

Thank you for reading my post! This is a work in progress please check back for updates!

The following are instructions for making an individual cup of herbal tea without using tea bags.

1. Fill a cup that is able to be placed in a microwave with water and add your herbal tea blend. Do not stir.
2. Make sure the water level is 1 inch below the rim of the cup, and heat it in the microwave on high for one to two minutes (depending on the microwave). This should bring it to a full boil. Keep an eye on the cup. Different herbal tea mixtures can affect how the water boils.
3. Carefully remove the cup and slowly stir the water. If you would like, you can add a little more water, so you have a full cup.
4. In a short period of time (about the time it takes for the water to cool down enough to drink), the herbs will have settled at the bottom of the cup.
5. If there are any left on top, slowly stir the top of the water. In most cases, it will sink to the bottom of the cup.
6. Slowly sip the tea, tilting the cup just enough to be able to reach the tea.
7. Almost all the herbs will remain on the bottom of the cup.
8. If you would like to, when you reach the bottom of the cup, you can take a spoon and compress the herbs in the cup to release the remaining water.

For some medical tea blends or herbs, boiling the tea in water for a significant period of time or letting the herbs soak in water for a day or more is recommended.

We have been following these instructions and are surprised at how well they work. It takes a little practice, but eventually you are able to drink the tea without sipping up any of the blend. And you do not need to worry about tea bags. The amount of herbal tea you would use per cup may vary based on the type of herbs.

For most of our blends, we have found that a 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of herbal tea blend for every 1 cup of water works best.

These instructions can be easily adapted to make tea on the stove in larger quantities.

Of course, you can purchase empty tea bags or a reusable tea ball infuser and soak the herbal tea blend that way. There are also devises that will filter out the herbs when you poor the tea.

Thank you for reading my post. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to comment below!

In the case of responsibly and professionally blended “100% natural” herbal smoking mixtures, yes. Overall, the herbal smoking blend industry has a good track record for safety (other than the negative health effects known to be associated with smoking) when the products are used as directed by healthy adults. There are very few herbs that do not come with some warning for pregnant or nursing women and people with health problems. These people should consult their doctor before smoking any substance.

Safer than Tobacco?

It depends on how you look at it. The fact of the matter is that, although many people find herbal blends enjoyable and relaxing, they have (in most cases) not been shown to be habit-forming. So, in that respect, they are safer because it is less likely the act of smoking herbs will become habit-forming.

As far as smoking herbs being safer to smoke than tobacco, we simply do not have enough scientific evidence to be able to answer that. We have seen research that shows particular herbs and blends produce less tar than tobacco when burned and have fewer harmful compounds. We do know that, when smoked, herbs produce tar and carbon monoxide, which are known to have negative side effects. This leads to reason that the habitual smoking of any substance is likely to be unhealthy.