Growing wellness: FNHA staff reconnect through traditional tobacco – FNHA
May 28, 2026
On World No (Commercial) Tobacco Day (May 31), First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) staff are sharing the strength and healing that comes from growing, preparing and learning about traditional tobacco in a good way.
Across FNHA, staff are reconnecting with traditional teachings by growing their own tobacco. Their gardens, balconies and community plots are becoming places of learning, grounding and cultural renewal.
Traditional tobacco as medicine
Traditional tobacco has been used by First Nations in BC since time immemorial as a sacred medicine that supports physical, mental, spiritual and emotional wellness.
The tobacco plant has many different names and uses among First Nations in BC. For many Nations, it is a sacred plant with significant healing and spiritual value. It is often used in ceremony, prayer and offerings. For these reasons, tobacco is treated with great respect.
