By Sani Yarima
Snuff is a form of smokeless tobacco made from finely ground tobacco leaves that is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the user’s mouth or nostrils.
Snuff can lead to effects such as relaxation, increased alertness, elevated heart rate, and a temporary decrease in appetite.
There are two types of snuff: dry, which is powdered tobacco sniffed through the nostrils, and moist, which is cut tobacco placed in the mouth.
The use of snuff is common in Nigeria, particularly in the northern part of the country, where many people who do not smoke tobacco or have retired from smoking use snuff instead.
Users such as Danjuma Muhammed and Sanusi Alhaji in an interview with our Correspondent in Jalingo said it makes them feel strong and healthier without experiencing health issues.
According to them, they have used snuff for over thirty years without adverse effects.
A snuff dealer, Malam Rabi’u Mai Shake, mentioned that there are different types of snuff available, including a popular variety called “Moringa” and a newer, more potent product called “Danmilla.”
The “Danmilla” variant is growing in popularity due to its effectiveness in treating various conditions such as piles, waist pain, eye problems, heartburn, and menstrual issues for women.
However, the container for “Danmilla” indicates contraindications for people with asthma, tuberculosis, and pneumonia.
Malam Rabi’u claimed that snuff has no negative effects on human health and is not linked to cigarettes, noting that many smokers are quitting cigarettes and switching to snuff not only in Taraba State but in many northern states.
He said he has been using snuff for over ten years without experiencing any health issues.
Mai Shake also disclosed the wholesale prices of “Danmilla” (N1000) and “Moringa” (N700) snuff containers and advised smokers to switch to snuff for its purported health benefits.
He revealed that he used to make sales of thirty to fifty thousand (N30,000 to N50,000) per day.
On the other hand, Dr. Isaiah Hunuato, a medical doctor, stated that smokeless tobacco, including snuff, contains cancer-causing chemicals such as tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines, cadmium, polonium, formaldehyde, and polycyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons.
Hunuato who spoke via telephone interview, also pointed out that all tobacco products, including snuff, contain nicotine, which is addictive.
According to him, prolonged use of snuff can lead to addiction and an increased risk of mouth or throat cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and other health problems.
Dr. Isiah Hunuato discouraged the use of snuff and warned about its potential to cause high blood pressure and stroke.
It is important to note that snuff is not a safe alternative to smoking and should be used with caution.
