Salvia divinorum: from Mazatec medicinal and hallucinogenic plant to emerging recreational drug.
Human psychopharmacology September 1, 2013 Jolanta B Zawilska, Jakub Wojcieszak 34 citations
Salvia divinorum, a sage traditionally used by Mazatec Indians for divination and spiritual healing, has gained popularity as a recreational drug among adolescents and young adults, often as an alternative to marijuana and LSD. Its major active ingredient, salvinorin A, is the most potent known hallucinogen of natural origin. The plant induces intense but short-lived psychedelic changes in mood and perception, with hallucinations and disorientation. Despite some websites misinterpreting limited research as evidence of safety, accumulated data indicate potential health risks, especially for teenagers, users of other substances, and those with underlying psychotic disturbances. Further basic and clinical studies are needed to develop prevention and treatment strategies.