"I really do believe that if people used it in a 'sacred' manner, for prayer and offerings, with respect for both self and the plant (AND the fire which burns it), there would be no health risks". I agree.

There is a local Tlingit medicine man (who is also Roman Catholic) who does cleansings and other rites. He always cleanses the air and the people with tobacco and sage and sweet grasses before he begins the ceremony. And you pay him with tobacco, never with money.

He doesn't smoke.