Nicotine is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the leaves of the tobacco plant and in lesser amounts in other plants like tomatoes and potatoes. It is a potent alkaloid and the primary psychoactive substance in tobacco products, responsible for their addictive properties.
When consumed, nicotine acts as a stimulant, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and dopamine levels in the brain, leading to feelings of pleasure and alertness.
However, nicotine is highly addictive, and prolonged use is associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.