Additional information

Native, Sacred or Traditional Tobacco Use
For thousands of years, American Indian nations have believed that tobacco is a sacred gift with the power to both heal if used properly and cause harm if used improperly. Native tobacco is sacred and is used for ceremonial, spiritual and healing purposes. The use of sacred tobacco varies from tribe to tribe.  Native tobacco is grown, gathered and prepared with care and respect and no chemicals are added. It is not addictive and is not associated with adverse health effects.

Commercial Tobacco Use
Commercial tobacco, viewed as an abuse of sacred tobacco, is different from traditional, native tobacco. Commercial tobacco is intended for recreational, habitual use and is associated with significant short-term and long-term health effects. It is made with many added chemicals, mass produced in a non-respectful way and sold for profit.

Tobacco Industry Targeting
In their marketing campaigns, commercial tobacco companies have exploited the use of sacred tobacco among American Indians, misrepresenting their commercial products to increase sales to the Indian Nations. 

Tobacco companies use a verity of marketing tactics to target American Indians, such as implying that the use of commercial tobacco and smokeless tobacco are elder-approved for ceremonial use, directly targeting minors, and offering lower priced products knowing Indian Nations are not held to local and state tobacco control laws that regulate other areas. Some companies have used American Indian imagery to promote the sale of commercial products and non-Native tobacco shops. In addition, the commercial companies provide sponsorship for community events, cultural events and directly to community organizations.