Salvia divinorum and salvinorin A: an update on pharmacology and analytical methodology.
Planta medica August 1, 2007 Oliver Grundmann, Stephen M Phipps, Immo Zadezensky et al. 81 citations
Salvia divinorum, a plant used for centuries by the Mazatecan culture and now a recreational drug, produces potent hallucinogenic effects. Its main compound, salvinorin A, is the first highly selective non-nitrogenous kappa opioid receptor agonist. Animal studies show rapid onset, short half-lives, and no evidence of short- or long-term toxicity. Salvinorin A appears promising for new treatments of central nervous system illnesses, but further research is needed to understand the plant's medicinal properties and inform legislation.