Salvia is a plant genus with many species, some of which are commonly found in gardens or used in cooking, like garden sage (Salvia officinalis). One particular species, Salvia divinorum, however, is known for its distinct psychoactive properties. This article explores the nature of Salvia divinorum and its potential for causing harm.
Understanding Salvia Divinorum
Salvia divinorum is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. This plant is native to the cloud forests of the Sierra Mazateca region in Oaxaca, Mexico.
Indigenous Mazatec people have a long tradition of using Salvia divinorum for spiritual and medicinal purposes, including divination and healing ceremonies. The primary active compound responsible for its psychoactive effects is salvinorin A, a non-nitrogenous diterpenoid. This compound is unique among hallucinogens as it acts as a potent and selective agonist at the kappa-opioid receptor in the brain, a mechanism different from classic psychedelics like LSD, which primarily affect serotonin receptors.
Immediate Effects and Potential Dangers
The psychoactive effects of Salvia divinorum are typically rapid in onset and short in duration, often lasting between 5 to 30 minutes when smoked, or 30 to 120 minutes when chewed. Users frequently experience intense hallucinations, which can include vivid colors, shapes, and patterns, along with perceptions of body movement or object distortions. These experiences can feel surreal and may involve a sense of overlapping realities or being in multiple places at once.
Users commonly report feelings of disembodiment or detachment from their physical body, sometimes described as an “out-of-body” experience. This can be accompanied by a loss of motor control, dizziness, and slurred speech, making physical coordination difficult. There is a risk of accidental injury due to impaired judgment and coordination during these intense, disorienting effects. The experience can also trigger acute panic attacks, intense anxiety, paranoia, and psychological distress.
Long-Term Concerns and Health Implications
Research into the long-term effects of Salvia divinorum is still limited, making definitive conclusions about chronic use challenging. Some reports suggest that while physical addiction is uncommon, psychological dependence can develop, particularly in individuals who use it to escape reality or cope with stress. This may manifest as cravings for its dissociative effects or neglecting responsibilities due to continued use.
Some users have reported lingering psychological distress or changes in mood after repeated use, including persistent anxiety or depression. There are also anecdotal accounts of difficulty distinguishing between reality and hallucinations, or experiencing flashbacks, though these occurrences are not considered common. While the physical harms from long-term use are not thoroughly studied, concerns exist regarding potential impacts on learning and long-term memory function.
Legal Status and Seeking Help
The legal status of Salvia divinorum and its active compound, salvinorin A, varies considerably across different regions. Federally, Salvia divinorum is not controlled under the United States Controlled Substances Act. However, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified it as a “drug of concern” due to its hallucinogenic effects and potential for abuse.
Many states have enacted their own regulations, with some classifying it as a Schedule I substance or imposing outright bans on its sale, possession, and use. If you or someone you know experiences a severe adverse reaction to Salvia divinorum, such as overwhelming hallucinations, intense emotional distress, or dangerous behavior, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. For those struggling with problematic substance use, professional support and treatment options are available and can be beneficial.