Salvia

Salvia divinorum is a perennial herb that is part of the mint family. The plant has large spade-shaped variegated green leaves that look somewhat similar to mint. It can grow to more than three feet high and is characterized by its hollow square stems and white flowers with purple calyxes. Salvia is native to certain areas of the Sierra Mazaleca region of Oaxaca, Mexico. However, the salvia plant can be grown successfully either indoors or outside in a humid semitropical climate. Salvia’s hallucinogenic effects make it one of several plants that are used by Mazatec Indians for ritual divination. Salvinorin A is believed to be the ingredient responsible for the psychoactive effects of Salvia.

Neither Salvia divinorum nor its active constituent Salvinorin A has an approved medicinal use in the United States. Salvia is not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act but Salvia divinorum is controlled by a number of states. Since Salvia is not controlled by the CSA, some online botanical companies and drug promotional sites have advertised Salvia as a legal alternative to other plant hallucinogens like mescaline.

Salvia can be used a few different ways; it can be chewed, smoked or vaporized. Psychological effects include perceptions of bright lights, vivid colors, shapes and body movement as well as body or object distortions. Salvia may also cause fear and panic, uncontrollable laughter, a sense of overlapping realities and hallucinations. Adverse physical effects may include loss of coordination, dizziness and slurred speech. When Salvia is chewed or smoked, the hallucinogenic effects experienced are similar to those induced by other hallucinogenic substances.

Street names of Salvia include: Maria Pastora and Sally-D. Drugs that have similar effects include: Mescaline.

If you or someone you love has a problem with Salvia, call our professionals at Sobriety Resources (855)289-2640 today to experience the freedom of sobriety.