Many people wonder if tobacco is naturally present in cannabis. This article clarifies the relationship between these two distinct substances and explains why they are sometimes combined.
Understanding Tobacco and Cannabis
Tobacco and cannabis are distinct botanical entities, belonging to different plant families. Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) belongs to the Solanaceae (nightshade) family, which includes potatoes and tomatoes. Cannabis belongs to the Cannabaceae family, which also includes hops. This fundamental difference means cannabis plants do not naturally contain tobacco.
Despite their distinct origins, combining tobacco with cannabis is a common practice in various cultures. This mixture is often consumed in forms known as “spliffs” or “blunts.” A spliff typically involves cannabis mixed with tobacco, rolled into a cigarette paper, similar in appearance to a joint. In contrast, a blunt uses a hollowed-out cigar wrapper, which is made from tobacco leaf, to contain the cannabis.
Why People Combine Tobacco and Cannabis
Individuals choose to combine tobacco with cannabis for several reasons, often influencing the smoking experience. One common motivation is to alter the burn rate and consistency of the cannabis. Tobacco can help the cannabis burn more evenly and continuously, preventing the need for frequent relighting.
Another practical reason for mixing is to extend a limited supply of cannabis. By adding tobacco, users can make their cannabis last longer, effectively stretching their reserves. This can be a cost-saving measure or a way to manage consumption.
The addition of nicotine from tobacco also plays a role, providing an immediate stimulant effect that contrasts with or complements the effects of cannabis. This nicotine “kick” can contribute to a different overall sensation. Some users also report a preference for the taste of combined tobacco and cannabis, finding the flavor profile more appealing than cannabis alone. For many, combining the two becomes a habitual practice, integrated into their routine over time.
Health Considerations of Combining
Combining tobacco and cannabis introduces amplified health risks compared to using either substance alone. The combustion of both tobacco and cannabis generates numerous toxins and carcinogens. When mixed, exposure to these harmful compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, increases significantly.
The highly addictive nature of nicotine, present in tobacco, is a major concern when the two are combined. Nicotine can create a strong physical dependence, and its presence in a cannabis mixture may increase the likelihood of developing a dependence on cannabis as well. This dual exposure can make cessation more challenging.
Combined use can exacerbate potential respiratory issues. Both tobacco smoke and cannabis smoke are irritants to the lungs and airways. Regular inhalation of this combined smoke can lead to symptoms like chronic cough, increased phlegm production, and a higher risk of developing bronchitis. The long-term effects on lung health are compounded by the presence of both substances.