Effects of Salvia Divinorum

Salvia divinorum has unique and powerful psychoactive effects. It is used for the introspective state of awareness caused by the Salvinorin-A found in Salvia. This introspective state is helpful for self-reflection, contemplation and mediation. Salvia is often called “legal pot” or “legal acid,” but these terms obscure the unique nature of Salvia. Its psychoactive effects include philosophical journeys, apparent time travel, spiritual experiences and sensual enhancement.

The botanical name Salvia divinorum means “Sage of the Diviners” The use of Salvia can produce a state of divine inebriation if the conditions are right. For this reason it has been sued for hundreds of years by the Mazatec Indians of Mexico. Currently Salvinorin-A and it’s source Salvia divinorum are legal substances in the United States and most other countries. Countries with prohibitions on the use of Savlia include Australia, Belgium, Denmark and South Korea. Italy and Finland restrict the commercial sale of Salvia.

The active chemical in Salvia divinorum is Salvinorin-A, which is a diterpene. Diterpenes have powerful psychoactive effects. Salvinorin-A is not chemically related to other psychoactive drugs. Pure Salvorin-A is extremely potent with most users consuming less than 1 milligram. The leaves of salvia divinorum contain very small quantities of Salvinorin-A so it can be used more safely. Useful for deep meditation, Salvia is best taken in a quiet and dark room. It is essential that Salvia not be used where knives, firearms, or other dangerous objects are present to ensure the safety of all those involved. Never attempt to drive while using Salvia. Do not take Salvia when you may be interrupted by pets, children phone calls or visits. Ensure that all smoking material is safely out before lying down to experience the full effects of Salvia. Do not give Salvia to violent or unstable people or to minors. Mixing Salvia with large amounts of alcohol may cause out of control behavior or cause the user to have terrifying experiences. Use extra caution when using vaporized extracts or extract enhanced leaves by having a sitter present. Do not use pure Salvinorin A due to the danger involved.

Experiences with Salvia range from subtle to very intense. Methods of use include chewing the leaves, smoking the leaves, or use of oral tinctures. The strength of experience depends on the method used and the individual. Use of Salvia offers several advantages including that it is not habit forming, it is legal in most countries, that it is not possible to overdose on Salvia, low occurrence of adverse side effects and the short duration of effects.

The use of a sober observer while using the substance is required because Salvia divinorum alters perception and behavior. The observer is there to ensure that the user does not injure themselves or others by causing things to fall over or running into objects. The observer must understand that the effects of Salvia are short acting, but may cause the user to act strangely. The observer must ensure that the user remains safe at all times. If the user enters into a dangerous situation, the observer needs to gently attempt to remove the user from that situation. Physical force should only be used if absolutely necessary. The observer is there to help reassure the user should they become frightened. Finally the observer is there to help the user recall the details of their experience.

Extreme caution should be used before attempting to combine Salvia with other drugs. Some combinations may interact in unexpected and potentially negative ways. If combining with another drug, the user should start with low doses to reduce the risk should a negative reaction occurs.