Top 10 Tobacco Alternatives For Joints

3. Blue Lotus

Adding blue lotus (Nymphaea Caerulea) to your spliffs will make you wonder why you were ever using tobacco in the first place. Not only will it contribute to a smooth and even burn, but it also contains psychoactive molecules. Cultures have revered blue lotus' mind-altering effects for thousands of years. Egyptian artwork often depicts the water lily during “party scenes” involving dancing and rituals.

The alkaloid aporphine underpins blue lotus’ psychoactive effects. The molecule acts as a dopamine receptor agonist endowed with antipsychotic properties.

Blue lotus has garnered the interest of modern psychonauts. Many users report accounts involving a strong sense of euphoria that calms the mind. Adding the herb to a spliff before bed may also increase the chances of lucid dreaming—the phenomenon of becoming conscious during a dream.

4. Passionflower

Passionflower is one of the most alien-looking plants on the face of the Earth. This gorgeous lifeform is known for its deeply relaxing effects. The plant is native to the Americas, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. The leaves and roots have a long history of use among Native Americans. Both fresh and dried leaves were used to brew a sedating tea. Modern science has confirmed the mechanisms behind this effect.

Research has shown that passionflower produces anxiolytic and memory-enhancing effects, and may relieve insomnia. The plant is believed to raise levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This inhibitory neurotransmitter calms down the central nervous system by slowing down the rate at which nerve cells fire. GABA works to counteract the effects of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate.

Using passionflower as a tobacco substitute may boost the anxiolytic effect of cannabis. It could also be helpful for users that often find themselves getting too high.

5. Skullcap

Despite its morbid name, skullcap is a medicinal herb with a plethora of uses. American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a member of the mint family and native to North America. Physicians have used the herb for hundreds of years as a mild relaxant and to treat anxiety and nervous tension. Modern research has discovered powerful antioxidant effects that may help to treat anxiety, depression, and diseases of the nervous system.

Skullcap is a rich source of anxiolytic agents—namely baicalin and baicalein. Both of these constituents bind to GABA receptors. The herb also contains GABA itself, which further promotes relaxation.

Although cannabis is inherently relaxing, using skullcap as a tobacco substitute can dramatically increase the effect. Skullcap can also be used to take the edge off the paranoia and panic sometimes caused by THC-rich strains.

6. Catnip

Catnip, also known as Nepeta Cataria or catmint, has become well-known for its psychoactive effect on felines. But humans can benefit from the herb too. However, it doesn’t quite have the same effect. The herb sends cats into a manic state, yet has subtly stimulating properties in humans.

Catnip is a perennial herb native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central America, and China. The plant has been used traditionally to relieve anxiety, insomnia, migraine, upper respiratory infections, and cramping. Catnip may achieve these effects thanks to the active molecule nepetalactone. The compound has a sedating effect that improves relaxation, elevates mood, and reduces restlessness. Nepetalactone is similar to the sedating compound valepotriates, found in valerian. Animal studies conducted on mice also found an antidepressant effect.

Catnip is a superb tobacco replacement, especially in the evening. Tobacco is a known stimulant, whereas catnip is a sedative. Smoke a combination of catnip and cannabis before bed to promote rest. Start low and slow to see how it affects your body and mind.

7. Greengo

Greengo was specifically developed to provide a healthier alternative to tobacco. The herbal blend consists of four natural ingredients: hazel, papaya, mint, and eucalyptus. The mix produces much less tar than tobacco and contains no addictive nicotine.

Greengo is a perfect tobacco substitute. The blend helps to fill out spliffs and provides a steady burning rate. The smoke is smooth and less harsh than tobacco, and all of the components offer unique and powerful tastes.

Greengo Smokers' Set

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Greengo isn’t just a tobacco alternative; it may even enhance the effects of cannabis. Eucalyptus stands out in the mix, thanks to its abundance of aromatic terpenes. The botanical produces high levels of α-pinene, which enhances the anti-inflammatory effect of some cannabinoids. Eucalyptus also contains caryophyllene, a dietary cannabinoid that activates the CB2 receptor to combat inflammation.

8. Mullein

Mullein is a tobacco alternative that may protect lung health. Although smoking is never good for the lungs, mullein may help to mitigate some of the adverse side effects.

Also known as Verbascum, mullein is a genus that features around 360 species of flowering plants. The plant is native to Europe, where it has a long history of use as an herbal remedy. It played a significant role in Austrian medicine and was used to treat disorders of the lungs, skin, veins, and digestive system. Research has also discovered painkilling and anti-inflammatory properties.In regards to lung health, mullein is thought to improve irritating coughs and bronchial congestion. It achieves this by helping to soothe and protect mucous membranes. Mullein also works as an expectorant to discharge mucus from the lungs.

9. White Lotus

White lotus (Nymphaea Lotus) is a psychedelic aphrodisiac that, when used as a tobacco alternative, will add an extra kick to the experience while getting you and your partner in the mood. The species contains several intriguing alkaloids, including aporphine, a molecule known to treat erectile dysfunction.

This botanical induces a floating sensation and waves of euphoria. It’s a superb additive when looking for something different from a cannabis high. It can be added to spliffs or even vaped alongside bud. If you opt for the latter, it has an optimal vaping temperature of 150°C.

Much like blue lotus, white lotus had a large impact on ancient Egyptian culture, where it was believed to give people strength. Archaeologists have since found remains of the species in burial tombs.

10. Sage

Last but not least comes sage. Sage is a common culinary herb with a rich spiritual past. White sage (Salvia apiana) otherwise known as sacred sage, has particularly strong ties to the divine. The evergreen perennial is native to parts of the United States and Mexico. It’s still widely used by Native Americans on the west coast of the US for healing purposes. Its uses include removing dirt from the eyes and giving women strength after childbirth.

White sage adds an intense flavour to joints and spliffs. Shortly after smoking, users experience feelings of deep relaxation and enhanced memory. The herb is also used to clear the throat and relieve sinus congestion.

So there you have it! For those of you trying to move away from tobacco whilst you blaze, or simply fancy adding something else into the mix, there are many options available. The great thing is that all of these herbs are legal in the majority of countries (but do check where you first!), are often cheaper than tobacco, and are just as easily obtainable on the internet. So get out there and get experimenting, your new favorite tobacco alternative could be just around the corner!