Throwback Thursday – Smokin’ Weed

My granddaughter found this photo in a family album.  She thought we were pretty cool, until I told her it was a costume party.  Ah, the good ole days.

Peasants smoked weed, I mean, actual weeds like mullein, coltsfoot, nettle, rosemary, sage for medicinal purposes to clear the lungs, sharpen the mind, and protect against plague. They may have been mild stimulants or relaxers and not considered addictive––just warming.

Tobacco was introduced to France in the 16th century. It was expensive and exotic and used by fashionable nobles to show wealth and sophistication. If less well-to-do people got hold of cheaper tobacco, they might pack it into a clay pipe or carved wooded pipe. 

A French diplomat in 1560 promoted tobacco to cure headaches and sinus issues. His name was Jean Nicot, hence the word Nicotine.  Thanks, Jean!

VIsit my FB Group as I explore all things about 17th Century peasants and the writing journey to my next historical fiction novel. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1185865059974956