Salvia Addiction And Abuse

What Is Salvia?

Salvia, or salvia divinorum, is a plant native to Oaxaca, Mexico, used in spiritual and divination practices. The plant belongs to the lamiacae family and has the flavor composition of mint, vibrant purple stems, and a distinct aroma. Salvia goes by many names:

In addition to its spiritual uses, the drug is also used recreationally to achieve hallucinations. Some have compared its effects to that of LSD due to salvia’s active ingredient, salvinorin A, which provides hallucinogenic effects comparable to the kind LSD produces. Salvia is considered a Schedule I controlled substance in many states, meaning it has a high potential abuse and no legitimate medical purpose, although it’s legal in some jurisdictions.

How Is Salvia Used?

Salvia is available in the form of a green plant or a liquid and can be smoked or chewed. The leaves are dried and can be smoked in pipes, similarly to marijuana. The result is a rapid-onset and short-lived high that may begin within minutes of consumption and generally lasts around 30 minutes. Users typically experience the most intense effects within 2 minutes of smoking, but these usually fade within 20 minutes. Salvia use is known for causing noticeable changes in perception.

When salvia is chewed, the leaves secrete chemical components of salvinorin A. These are absorbed through the oral mucosa, creating visual hallucinations and altered states of cognition that last from 1 to 2 hours. When in liquid form, salvia can be combined with other liquids. Another common method of use is crushing the leaves and mixing them into drinks or vaporizing the herb.

Signs Of Salvia Dependence

A salvia dependence can occur due to the plant’s effects on the mind. The active ingredient, salvinorin A, attaches to the opioid receptors in the brain. Acting at the KOR, or kappa opiate receptor site, the compound alters the user’s ability to perceive reality. People may find the herb appealing because of the hallucinations it produces.

If someone has to use more of the drug to feel the same effects, this can indicate a problem. For instance, using more than the safe dose of 1 gram could show that someone has developed a tolerance to the effects of salvia. Drug tolerances occur gradually and often transition into substance use disorders.

A dependence is also marked by someone craving the substance when they reduce or stop their use. They may feel mild, uncomfortable symptoms like irritability and anxiety. To combat these feelings, they may continue using salvia.

Signs that may indicate salvia abuse include:

Featured Centers Offering Treatment for Salvia Addiction

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects Of Salvia

Considered the strongest natural hallucinogen, salvia has both short-term and long-term effects. The hallucination-inducing effects on the brain are one of the trademarks of the substance. Many may notice physiological and psychological effects such as:

There are several studies concerning the long-term effects of salvia. Some sources reveal long-term use can lead to problems with cognition, both with learning and long-term memory function. Anxiety is another long-term effect. Individuals suffering “bad trips” would have problems adjusting to a grounded reality and could struggle with feeling relaxed.

In rare cases, some may endure psychotic side effects and have trouble adjusting to reality. If people combine salvia with other chemicals like alcohol or stimulants, there is a higher risk of complication and even overdose. Don’t hesitate to get help. 

Salvia’s Legal Standing

Because of salvia’s potent side effects it’s been deemed dangerous, resulting in its illegal status in many states. If someone is found using the drug in a state where it’s illegal, they can suffer 5 years of prison time. Salvia is legal in states such as California and Maine. Some states, like Florida, previously allowed use without restriction but have since made the substance illegal. Missouri, Oklahoma, and Delaware have ruled salvia a Schedule I controlled substance. Wisconsin prohibits the selling and manufacturing of salvia, which is punishable by up to $10,000 in fees.

Get Help Today

Salvia has potentially damaging effects that can last a lifetime. If you or a loved one struggles to taper use, or finds they need more to cope, there is help available. Contact a treatment provider today. They can provide helpful details on facilities and treatments to help those battling a salvia dependency.