By Luke Sumpter


Do you know the difference between a spliff and a joint? Whereas joints are rolled using only weed, spliffs contain tobacco. This addition helps the roll-up to burn evenly, fills out each cone, and comes along with a hit of nicotine.

While many European smokers enjoy adding tobacco to their cannabis, we all know the health dangers associated with this plant. Luckily, Mother Nature provides a banquet of smokable herbs, each with its own unique effects.

Of course, any kind of combustion produces tar and other nasty substances. But many herbs also contain beneficial terpenes and, if you buy organic, aren’t coated in pesticides and other damaging chemicals.

Check out the best smokable herbs below to use as tobacco alternatives in your spliffs. Read to the end to find out how to mix your own herbal blends.

1. DAMIANA

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Damiana is an interesting herb with a rich history. It was originally utilised by the Aztecs as a remedy for impotence, and is reported to exhibit aphrodisiac effects and boost sexual drive and desire. Damiana is also used traditionally to treat headaches, depression, bedwetting, and constipation.

The herb is also associated with a mild psychoactive effect that is said to uplift the user, due to the presence of substances that may affect the nervous system and brain. Next time you fancy getting in the mood with your partner, sprinkle some dried damiana into a joint as a tobacco alternative.

2. KRATOM

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Kratom, known by its scientific name Mitragyna speciosa, is a member of the coffee family that is native to Southeast Asia. The plant has garnered some serious attention over its ability to assist opioid users in cases of withdrawal. Kratom is known as an effective opioid substitute, meaning it may also be effective at managing chronic pain.

Kratom has been used traditionally for hundreds of years and played the role of a traditional medicine. The leaves are still chewed as a means to relieve pain and boost energy.

The effects brought on by kratom are dose-dependant. Lower doses of the plant, between 1–5g, cause stimulant effects that are felt within a timeframe of 10 minutes and last up to 90 minutes. These effects may lead to increased energy and alertness.

Moderate doses of the plant, between 5–15g, have opioid-like effects. The effects of doses of this size can last for multiple hours and may incite pain relief, a calm mental state, and a reduction of opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Kratom can be sprinkled into spliffs in a dose-dependant manner in order to achieve the desired effects. However, users should thoroughly research the plant beforehand to make sure it is compatible with any health conditions they have or any medications they are taking, as side effects and complications are possible and have been reported.

3. KANNA

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Kanna, or Sceletium tortuosum, is an herb that is recognised for its abilities to boost mood and ease stress, tension, and anxiety. Doses on the lower end of the spectrum are reported to induce stimulation, whilst higher doses are associated with more sedating effects. This dose-dependant action makes kanna quite a flexible addition to a weed smoking session, with users able to adjust the effects depending on the occasion and all around mood of the setting.

Some users report that kanna boosts their confidence in social situations, so it may help to enhance conversations and decrease social anxiety. For this reason, it may also help to offset any anxiety associated with cannabis consumption. Although, kanna is said to enhance some of the effects of cannabis too.

Once again, be sure to research this plant before adding it to your spliffs, to make sure it is safe for you to consume as an individual. For example, the herb may temporarily increase blood pressure.

4. LAVENDER

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

This famous and therapeutic herb is easy to access and is found residing in many gardens across the world. The stunning scents derived from this species are in part due to the presence of the terpene linalool, also found in many different strains of cannabis. This terpene can add some truly delicious tastes to spliffs.

The role of lavender in a spliff goes far beyond just taste though; the so-called “entourage effect” makes it apparent that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD synergise with terpenes to boost the effects and alter the high.

Smoking lavender is reported to possibly assist with nervousness and insomnia, and can make for a smoother smoking experience.

5. ROSEMARY

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Often found within many delicious culinary dishes, rosemary is another herb often found in gardens. As well as tasting delicious, rosemary is associated with improved cognition and memory due to the active constituents found within the plant. The herb may also assist with inflammation and immune system function.

6. HOPS

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

This herb is commonly found within a wide variety of beers, yet it can also play a part in spliffs too. Hops are actually part of the same plant family as cannabis. Hops contain the terpene myrcene, which is also found within numerous types of cannabis. This terpene is associated with both sedative and antidepressant effects, making it an enjoyable and complementary addition to a cannabis high.

Hops are reported to be dangerous when smoked at higher temperatures, so this herb is a better addition to vaping blends instead.

7. CATNIP

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, stars in many online videos of cats ingesting the herb and shortly after exhibiting some strong psychoactive effects. The herb also generates some interesting effects in humans, only slightly less intensely. The addition of catnip in a spliff can contribute a sedating effect, leading to feelings of relaxation and stress relief.

8. GREENGO

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Greengo is a much healthier alternative to tobacco that helps spliffs burn at a steady pace. The mixture is a combination of papaya, mint, hazel leaf, and eucalyptus. Greengo contains no nicotine and is in no way addictive. It also produces much less tar than tobacco.

9. SKULLCAP

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Skullcap serves as a superb replacement for tobacco when looking for a mellow and relaxing high. The herb is used traditionally to ease anxiety, reduce nervous tension, and stress. This makes the herb an excellent addition to indica strains. There are numerous species of skullcap with varying effects, so make sure to look for the right one for you.

10. SAGE

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Sage is another herb found in many gardens and upon many kitchen shelves. Who knew it could also be added to spliffs to boost relaxation and calmness. White sage, in particular, is known to bring about these effects. The dried herb also helps to bulk out spliffs and assists with burning.

11. MARSHMALLOW LEAF & ROOTS

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

No, marshmallows aren’t just that sugary snack you eat by the packet every time you get the munchies. It’s actually a herb native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Ancient cultures used marshmallows in their preparations for an array of purposes, and modern research has uncovered a host of interesting phytochemicals in the plant.

When smoked, marshmallow root and leaf produce a relaxing effect on the body and the mind. Although much milder than cannabis, this plant puts the mind at ease and reduces tension. Place this in your spliffs for an added sense of chill when blazing in the evenings.

We advise talking to your doctor before using this herb to rule out any interactions with medications or health conditions.

12. MULLEIN

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Mullein is a common herb used in smoking blends. The plant produces a thick, smooth smoke that possesses a soothing and cooling quality, which helps to offset some of the harshness that comes with inhaling cannabis.

Much like cannabis, mullein serves as a rich source of interesting phytochemicals, including flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and terpenes. Aside from helping spliffs burn slow and steady, the plant produces some unique properties of its own.

A spliff loaded with mullein will produce deeply relaxing effects that ground the body and clear the mind. Enhance the effects of cannabis and place your mind in the present moment with this robust species.

13. WILD DAGGA

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

Wild dagga, also known as lion’s tail, shares a few similarities with cannabis, making it a perfect companion herb in any spliff. Native to Southern Africa, this member of the Lamiaceae family possesses psychoactive properties. The name “dagga” derives from the Khoikhoi “dacha”, the indigenous name for cannabis.

The species grows to a height of 2m, produces aromatic, dark green leaves, and blooms beautiful bright-orange, tail-like flowers. Traditionally, natives used the leaves, roots, bark, flowers, and stems to make botanical preparations.

When smoked, the leaves and flowers produce a relaxing effect that some describe as a mild version of cannabis.

HOW TO MAKE A HERBAL SMOKING BLEND

We recommend experimenting with the herbs above individually to get an appreciation for their effects. But, after you’ve determined your favourite, why stick to just one? Using the simple guidelines below, you can craft your own herbal blends to create synergistic spliffs that hit like a dream.

THE FORMULA FOR HERBAL SMOKING BLENDS

When making your own herbal blend, use this formula to help strike the perfect balance. A good blend consists of four distinct components:

  • Base herbs: These species hold everything together. Use them in bulk to give the blend some structure and help your spliffs burn evenly and slowly.
  • Action/flavour herbs: A good blend usually consists of 1–3 action species. These offer phytochemicals that underpin the effects of the blend and contribute unique tastes to the mix.
  • Astringent herbs: These herbs add balance to the blend and help round off the taste and feel of the smoke.
  • Kicker/acute herbs: These potent herbs inject some kick into the mix. Their potent phytochemicals add a pleasant bite when used in small but effective amounts.

PROPORTIONS

Now that you’re aware of the key components, let’s talk proportions! Adding each herb in the desired amount will create a flavourful blend that delivers the desired effect. Check out the ideal proportions of each herbal blend below:

  • Base herbs: 40%
  • Flavour/action herbs: 40%
  • Astringent herbs: 15%
  • Kicker/acute herbs: 5%

EXAMPLE HERBAL BLEND RECIPE

To help this information sink in, we’ve created an example recipe using the 13 tobacco alternatives mentioned above. Feel free to incorporate this blend into your spliffs, or simply use the recipe as a foundation to get creative. This recipe makes a blend that weighs 500g, enough for a few big smoking sessions.

Base herbs (200g):

  • 100g mullein
  • 100g marshmallow root

Action herbs (200g):

  • 100g damiana
  • 100g hops

Astringent herb:

  • 75g lavender

Kicker/acute herbs (25g):

  • 12.5g catnip
  • 12.5g skullcap
Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

DIRECTIONS

1. Collect the jars full of each herb you plan to use.

2. Process each herb by removing any large stems, and grind down large chunks into a coarse powder.

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

3. Weigh out each herb using a sensitive scale.

4. Place the weighed amount into a large Tupperware container or plastic bag and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

5. Open the container and use your hands to mix the blend for a further 30 seconds.

6. Empty the contents into a large mason jar and store in a cool and dark place until you plan to use it.

Top 13 Tobacco Replacements

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Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

+34 937 379 846

support@royalqueenseeds.com


The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

1.1 Account purchases

Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

Purpose of data collection

We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

(a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

(b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

(c) to conduct market research and analysis;

(d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

1.2 Newsletters

With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

Purpose of data collection

The data collected is used to:

(a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

(b) provide gender-specific content.

You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

1.3 Customer service and contact form

In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

4.1 Account information

Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

4.2 Newsletters

In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

SECTION 5 – COOKIES

Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

5.1 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

5.2 Analytical Cookies

Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

Web analytics service (anonymous data)

On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

Courier service

To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

Mailing service

Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

Marketing services

Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

Payment services

At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

SECTION 6 – SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: