What is Snuff in Netflix’s ‘Bridgerton’?

If you’ve watched just one episode of Netflix‘s Bridgerton, you should already know that Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel) is a true icon. With layered wigs, opulent dresses, and a penchant for good gossip, the ton’s leader is setting every trend for the ladies in the area. And in the second episode of the period romance, “Shock and Delight,” you may pick up on one of the Queen’s hobbies: snuff sniffing. Say what?

Shondaland‘s luxurious new Netflix show is not all about the Queen (though it probably could be) — rather, it’s about the Bridgerton family and one scandalous new gossip columnist, Lady Whistledown. In the first season, young Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) years to marry and start a family of her own. Luckily, Queen Charlotte deems her the first diamond of the season. Over the course of the first season, the Queen pops her nose into drama, town happenings, and a few balls.

But what in heaven’s name is snuff? Was it even legal in the ton, or was it only fit for Queens? Here’s everything you need to know about the substance:

What is snuff? What is the Queen sniffing in Episode 2 of Bridgerton?

Though it may appear to be a harder drug, the Queen is actually sniffing a period-correct delicacy. Snuff is just a smokeless form of tobacco, and it was extremely popular in Queen Charlotte’s time. In fact, Queen Charlotte was actually nicknamed “Snuffy Charlotte” in real life. In the series, she’s also “addicted to snuff,” according to Rosheuvel. Basically, she’s addicted to smoking cigarettes — but without the smoking aspect of it. Snuff was huge in the wealthy classes of England in the 19th-century.

Was snuff legal in Regency-era England? Is snuff legal now?

Sure, Queen Charlotte sniffs snuff, but does that mean it’s legal? Well, yes. Snuff was legal to use in Regency-era England, though it was a luxury few could actually afford. It’s still legal today, though you may have trouble finding it in the United States. It’s mainly sold at specialized tobacco shops.

Who plays Queen Charlotte in Bridgerton? Meet Golda Rosheuvel:

English actress Golda Rosheuvel plays the glamorous Queen C in Bridgerton. You may have seen her acting alongside Florence Pugh in Lady Macbeth, where she played Agnes. She’s also starred in Luther, Silent Witness, and Rev.

Watch Bridgerton on Netflix