Aztec tobacco from Köhler’s Medicinal Plants / Nicotiana rustica

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Aztec tobacco plant also known as Nicotiana rustica, and it's a pretty cool illustration from Köhlers Medicinal Plants. This drawing is from way back in 1887, so it's a pretty valuable piece of historical botanical art.

The best part is that this image is super versatile! You can use it for all sorts of things, like printing posters or adding it to your creative projects. The resolution is top-notch, and the details are super intricate, so it's perfect for any project that needs some botanical imagery.

Nicotiana rustica is a species of tobacco plant that is native to South America and has been cultivated for centuries by indigenous communities in the region.

It is a very hardy plant that does not require the same stable climate as e.g. Nicotiana tabacum does, so it can be grown in many places in the world. And has, among other places, been cultivated in Russia, Vietnam, Turkey and several other places.

Characterized by its small leaves, compact stature and high nicotine content, Nicotiana rustica is viewed as an important cultural crop, particularly among Amazonian peoples who view it as a sacred plant with spiritual and medicinal properties. Nicotine levels can be 8-18 times higher than those found in other varieties of tobacco, which makes it more addictive and harmful when consumed in excess. Despite this, the plant continues to be consumed by some tribes in the form of snuff or through smoking ritualistic pipes called ‘kuripes’. While this species has not gained widespread popularity outside of its native regions due to its harsh taste profile, interest has increased among scientists who are seeking to study its unique chemical makeup for potential therapeutic applications.