Chemistry of Nicotine

Introduction

Although Asians and Native Americans were consuming tobacco prior or simultaneously as the Europeans, it has been said that tobacco was first introduced into western society in the 16th century. It began in France in 1556, then to Portugal in 1558, then to Spain in 1559, then at last England in 1565. Some say the Native Americans introduced tobacco to the Europeans although they both used tobacco in different manners. The Native Americans consumed this drug to speak with the gods and was used as a medicine. Europeans used tobacco for more medicinal use and then it became more of a recreational thing. Tobacco in Europe was often used among the more popular and higher classes, as displayed in the tale of Sir Walter Raleigh getting even the Queen to partake in smoking. (1)

The name nicotine originates from the Tobacco plant named Nicotiana Tabacum, which was named after Jean Nicot a French ambassador to Portugal. It was discovered when Nicot sent Tobacco seeds to the royal family in France for medicinal use which was effective against asthma, toothaches and ulcerated wounds. Then in the 19th century the name was changed Nicotine. (2)

Although we are all fully aware of the negative consequences which come along with smoking, many people are still smoke today. In the past, advertisements would promote smoking, depicting the positive social aspects, however they were very inaccurate. Currently most ads involving smoking are against it and provide statistics and details on why not to begin to smoke and why to stop smoking. Recently smoking has been banned in public places because of its harmful affects not just on the smoker but on other individuals that are exposed to second hand smoke. As we continue to grow as a society, more people learn how bad smoking really is for them.

Addictive Properties of Nicotine

Nicotine is the tobacco plant’s natural protection from insects that is known to be more deadly than rattlesnake venom and believed to be...