Snus is a moist powder tobacco product, sold in loose form or small pouches, designed to be placed under the upper lip. Unlike other forms of smokeless tobacco, traditional snus is pasteurized rather than fermented, which affects its chemical composition. Using snus involves a unique blend of immediate physical sensations and a systemic psychoactive effect on the body.
The Initial Sensory Experience
When snus is positioned under the upper lip, the user feels the physical presence of the moist, pliable pouch or loose tobacco. The initial taste is typically a combination of salt and a subtle, earthy tobacco flavor, often accompanied by flavorings like mint, citrus, or wintergreen.
Almost simultaneously, a characteristic tingling, stinging, or burning sensation develops at the contact point on the gum and inner lip. This feeling, sometimes called the “prilla” or “burn,” is caused by the nicotine and the product’s alkalinity (pH level). A higher pH facilitates the absorption of “free” uncharged nicotine, which interacts with the sensitive oral mucosa. This initial intensity often subsides after a few minutes as the mouth acclimates.
Understanding the Nicotine Sensation
The systemic effects of snus begin as nicotine is rapidly absorbed through the oral mucosa, entering the bloodstream. This absorption triggers the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to the sensation often described as a “nicotine rush” or “buzz.”
The effects are dual-natured, acting as both a stimulant and a relaxant, depending on the individual and the dose. Users often report feelings of mild euphoria, heightened alertness, and increased concentration, as nicotine stimulates the central nervous system. Conversely, the experience can also induce a sense of calm and relaxation.
Duration and Intensity of the Effects
The onset of the systemic nicotine effect from snus is typically slower compared to smoking a cigarette, as absorption through the buccal mucosa takes several minutes. However, once the effect begins, it is often more sustained and long-lasting than the peak experienced from smoking.
The steady, slower absorption rate allows the body to maintain a more level concentration of nicotine in the blood over a longer period. The overall intensity and duration are heavily influenced by the product’s composition. Snus with higher moisture content and a higher pH level releases nicotine more quickly and effectively, leading to a faster onset and a more intense peak sensation. Users generally keep the product in place for 30 to 60 minutes, during which the sustained feeling gradually tapers off.
Common Unpleasant Reactions
For new users or those trying a product with a higher-than-usual nicotine concentration, the physical experience can quickly become uncomfortable. The rapid introduction of nicotine can lead to immediate, dose-dependent negative reactions. A common initial response is lightheadedness or dizziness, which occurs as the body reacts to the surge of the stimulant.
Other common side effects include nausea, sometimes referred to as “nicotine sickness,” which is a sign of nicotine overdose. Nicotine acts on the cardiovascular system, causing a temporary increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which some users may perceive as palpitations or jitters. These uncomfortable physical symptoms, which also include sweating, result from an excessive dose of the compound.