Salvia divinorum: an hallucinogenic mint which might become a new recreational drug in Switzerland.
Forensic science international – August 14, 2000
Source: PubMed
Summary
A potent hallucinogenic mint, historically used by indigenous cultures for spiritual practices, is increasingly being encountered in Switzerland. Chemical analysis successfully identified Salvinorin A, its active compound, in seized specimens, with botanical identity also confirmed. Discoveries in illicit plantations and greenhouses provide clear evidence of its growing presence. This suggests a developing trend towards its use as a recreational drug, potentially fueled by its current unregulated status.
Abstract
Salvia divinorum Epling & Jativa is an hallucinogenic mint traditionally used for curing and divination by the Mazatec Indians of Oaxaca, Mexico. Young people from Mexican cities were reported to smoke dried leaves of S. divinorum as a marijuana substitute. Recently, two S. divinorum specimens were seized in a large-scale illicit in-door and out-door hemp plantation. Salvinorin A also called divinorin A, a trans-neoclerodane diterpene, was identified in several organic solvent extracts by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The botanical identity of the plant was confirmed by comparing it to an authentic herbarium specimen. More plants were then discovered in Swiss horticulturists greenhouses. All these data taken together suggest that many attempts exist in Switzerland to use S. divinorum as a recreational drug. This phenomenon may be enhanced because neither the magic mint, nor its active compound are banned substances listed in the Swiss narcotic law.