Kinni-kinnick tobacco blends

"Most of the North American Indians mixed their tobacco with other herbs before smoking it. Among the more northern tribes, especially those who did not raise tobacco themselves, this was done partly through motives of economy, but the mixture was also designed to improve the flavor, as in our own commercial blends. The favorite smoke of the tribes of the eastern United States and Canada was called kinnikinnick, from an Algonquian word meaning "that which is mixed." Each tribe had its own formula for this mixture, but it usually consisted of tobacco, sumac leaves, and the inner bark of a species of dogwood. The bark and leaves of a number of other plants were sometimes added or substituted. A little oil was usually added to the mixture to bind the dust, which would otherwise irritate the smoker's throat and clog the pipe. Kinnikinnick was milder than pure tobacco, and was preferred by most Indians and by many white hunters and settlers." - Chicago Natural History Museum, 1922.

If you want to try Kinni-Kinnick, I recommend Missouri River Brand. Dixie Gun Works carries at least one variety. You can find other sources on the www, but I've done business with Dixie before and have found them to be honest and reliable. Be warned that Kinni-kinnick mixtures contain plant ingredients that aren't typical to western tobacco blends and could cause allergic reactions and/or other unwanted side effects. Always examine the ingredients first, don't try your first bowlful alone, and consult your doctor if you have any doubts whatsoever.

Photo: Library of Congress