|
░ Definition
Nicotine is an organic compound, an alkaloid found throughout the tobacco plant (Nicotiana tabacum), with a high concentration in the leaves. Consumption of tobacco is consumption of a dangerous drug with a potent charge of poison, which has been used even as an insecticide (from 1746).
The first Europeans in consuming tobacco were Christopher Columbus and his crewman on their voyage to America. But nicotine has its name by Jean Nicot, who introduced it into France in 1560.
░ Effects of nicotine
In the short term :
Nicotine acts on the central and peripheral nervous system. Smoking can be stimulating or relaxing, it depends on a person's mood and dosage of nicotine. The rapid effects of nicotine include: increases in blood pressure and heart rate, faster respiration, constriction of arteries and stimulation of the central nervous system.
In the long term :
Long term exposure to tobacco and nicotine increases the chances of cancer and results in addiction and dependence. Exactly how nicotine produces addiction and dependence is not clear, but there are some theories. In the brain, limbic pathways that use the neurotransmitter dopamine are affected by nicotine, what may be an explanation for the addiction.
It is clear though, that nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known. Common withdrawal symptoms in people who are trying to kick the habit include: anxiety, depression, headaches, fatigue.
░ The nervous system
In tobacco smoke, nicotine is mixed with tar. When the smoke gets to the lungs, the nicotine is absorbed quickly, eight seconds after nicotine reaches the brain. In every cigarette, a smoker gets about 1 mg of nicotine. When tobacco is chewed, nicotine reaches the central nervous system in about 3-5 minutes.
░ Important: Danger, cancer
Scientific studies have continuously proved the relation cause-effect that exists between tobacco and cancer. And not only in the case of lung cancer, but also in the case of 11 different types of cancer, according to the latest scientific results. According to the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) the disappearance of smoking would reduce cancer incidence by 25% and would increase the rate of survival by 20%.
More information (University of Washington) >>
More Courses
░ Alcohol
░ Amphetamines
░ Barbiturates
░ Cocaine
░ Caffeine
░ Ecstasy
░ GHB
░ Heroin
░ Inhalants
░ LSD
░ Marijuana
░ Mushrooms
░ Nicotine
░ PCP
░ Rohypnol
| 
Español
