This sacred herbal mixture was used ritualistically by Native Americans because it is believed to have the power to absorb prayers and send them to the Great Spirit.  This blend was also mixed with tobacco and smoked in a sacred pipe, and this is the actual blend when mixed with tobacco became known as Kinnikinnick, from the Algonquian word for "mixture".

There is no tobacco in this blend, and does not have to be smoked as it is used traditionally, but can instead be used as a ceremonial incense or for smudging.  There are several accepted spellings for this product; one is "Kinick Kinick" and the other is "Knick Knick", and both both refer to the same ceremonial incense.  Also, the original word for this sacred herbal blend originally known as "Kinnickinnick" has been improperly interchanged with the Bayberry Bush that was also used and also held in high esteem by Native Americans.  The Bearberry Bush (also known for its mild stmulant properties) is indeed an ingredient in this sacred blend, but it certainly isn't the only, and only becomes "Kinnickinnick" when tobacco is added to the mix as well.