Salvia divinorum---also known as diviner's sage or simply "salvia"---is a hallucinogenic plant native to Oaxaca, Mexico. Traditionally, salvia leaves have been chewed or smoked for their mind-altering effects, though potent smokable extracts are also available. Despite its natural origins, salvia can potentially cause dangerous effects when used irresponsibly. Understanding the risks and benefits of salvia may help minimize dangers while allowing users to get the most positive effects from the herb.
Characteristics
Salvia divinorum is a plant from the sage family. It contains salvinorin A, which is active in doses as low as 200 micrograms, making it one of the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogens known. Salvia has broad green leaves and white flowers that bloom infrequently. It grows naturally in the Sierra Mazateca in Mexico at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 feet.
Effects
Salvia contains salvinorin A, which acts as a kappa-opioid agonist in the body. When smoked, salvia produces hallucinogenic effects that may include visual and auditory hallucinations, laughter and synesthesia---or confusion of the senses, such as "smelling sounds" or "hearing colors."
According to The Salvia Divinorum User's Guide, effects come on in less than a minute when smoked and taper off greatly after five or 10 minutes. Chewing salvia generally results in longer-lasting but less potent effects. Other effects may include involuntary recall of forgotten memories, slurred speech, and altered perception of location, time and other aspects of reality.
Side Effects/Risks
Salvia extracts are often extremely potent and may cause overwhelmingly intense effects when smoked. Feelings of anxiety or panic, loss of control and frightening hallucinations sometimes occur. While the plant itself cannot cause overdose, its disorienting effects may lead to accidental self-harm when taken without a sober observer present. Like tobacco, smoking salvia can lead to lung irritation, coughing and sore throat.
Legal Status
To date, salvia divinorum remains an unscheduled substance in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 14 states have placed salvia into Schedule I of state law---effectively banning the sale, purchase or possession of the plant. Other states have enacted less restrictive laws regarding salvia and its active component, salvinorin A. The plant has been outlawed in several countries, some of which include Italy, Denmark, Australia and Sweden.
Warning
Never attempt to drive or operate machinery under the influence of salvia. Having a sober, experienced observer present during use may decrease the risk of accidental self-harm. As with other herbs and supplements, salvia may contain unknown levels of active compounds as well as contaminants. The only proven way to completely avoid self-injury or other negative effects is to abstain from using salvia.
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