Vegetative anatomy and micromorphology of Salvia divinorum (Lamiaceae) from Mexico, combined with chromatographic analysis of salvinorin A.

Salvia divinorum, a species traditionally cultivated in Oaxaca, Mexico, has hallucinogenic properties and is legally controlled in many countries. Proper identification of the plant in fresh and dried forms is important for crime prevention. This paper provides a thorough anatomical description of leaves, petioles, and stems, with detailed investigation and illustration of foliar trichomes. Chromatographic analyses, including TLC and HPLC, were applied to fresh and dried plant material alongside the standard reference salvinorin A. A comprehensive identification method based on anatomical examination combined with chemical analysis is proposed for proper plant recognition.

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Abstract

Salvia divinorum--a species traditionally cultivated in Oaxaca, Mexico--possesses hallucinogenic properties. It is legally recognized as a controlled substance and prohibited in many countries. The proper identification of the plant, both in fresh and dried forms, is an important issue in crime-prevention campaigns. This paper provides a thorough anatomical description of leaves, petioles, and stems of S. divinorum. Detailed investigation of foliar trichomes was performed and illustrated. In addition, chromatographic analyses, including TLC and HPLC, were applied to fresh and dried plant material, together with the standard reference salvinorin A. A comprehensive identification method for S. divinorum based on a thorough anatomical examination is proposed, combined with chemical analysis for proper plant recognition.