Salvia (Salvia divonorum)

Alkaloid: Salvinorin A

a. Cultivation

Growing Salvia divinorum, also known as Diviner’s Sage or simply Salvia, requires careful attention to its unique needs and growing conditions. Here’s a detailed guide to help you successfully cultivate Salvia divinorum:

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Salvia divinorum

1. Propagation

Salvia divinorum is typically propagated through cuttings, as it rarely produces viable seeds.

From Cuttings:

1. Selecting a Cutting:
   • Choose a healthy cutting about 4-6 inches long with at least two nodes (the points where leaves grow).
2. Preparation:
   • Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top.
   • Optionally, dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root growth.
3. Rooting:
   • Place the cutting in a glass of water or directly into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix.
   • If rooting in water, change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
   • If rooting in soil, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
4. Environment:
   • Place the cutting in a warm, shaded area with indirect sunlight.
   • Maintain high humidity around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or using a humidity dome.

2. Soil Requirements

• Type: Salvia divinorum thrives in rich, well-draining soil. A mixture of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss is ideal.
• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6-8 is suitable.

3. Light Requirements

• Location: Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
• Artificial Light: If growing indoors, fluorescent or LED grow lights can be used. Keep lights on for about 12-16 hours a day.

4. Watering

• Frequency: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Avoid: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.

5. Temperature and Humidity

• Optimal Temperature: Salvia divinorum prefers temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C).
• Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels, ideally above 50%. Use a humidifier or mist the plant regularly if growing indoors.

6. Fertilization

• Type: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Frequency: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

7. Potting and Repotting

• Initial Pot: Start with a small pot and repot as the plant grows.
• Repotting: Move to a larger pot when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

8. Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Regularly pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.
• Maintenance: Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health.

9. Pest and Disease Control

• Common Pests: Watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Diseases: Root rot is a common issue due to overwatering. Ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogged soil.

Additional Tips

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Salvia divinorum can be grown both indoors and outdoors. If growing outdoors, choose a shady spot protected from strong winds.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, bring the plant indoors during winter to protect it from frost. Maintain high humidity indoors.
• Legal Considerations: Be aware of the legal status of Salvia divinorum in your area, as it is regulated in some regions.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow and maintain Salvia divinorum, ensuring a healthy and robust plant.

b. Preparation & Dosage

Salvia divinorum is a powerful psychoactive plant used by Mazatec shamans for spiritual healing and divination. Given its potency, it’s crucial to approach its use with caution and respect. Below is a detailed guide to the preparation and dosage of Salvia divinorum.

Preparation Methods

1. Chewing (Quid Method)

• Materials Needed: Fresh or rehydrated Salvia leaves.
• Preparation:
  1. If using dried leaves, rehydrate them by soaking in water for a few minutes.
  2. Roll several leaves into a ball or “quid.”
• Administration:
  1. Place the quid in your mouth and chew slowly to release the active compounds.
  2. Hold the juices in your mouth without swallowing for at least 15-30 minutes to allow sublingual absorption.
  3. After this period, you can swallow or spit out the remaining leaf material.

2. Smoking

• Materials Needed: Dried Salvia leaves or standardized extract.
• Preparation:
  1. Use a water pipe or a regular smoking pipe.
  2. Measure out the desired quantity of dried leaf or extract.
• Administration:
  1. Inhale deeply and hold the smoke in your lungs for as long as possible to maximize absorption.
  2. Effects come on very quickly, usually within 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

3. Sublingual Tincture

• Materials Needed: Salvia tincture.
• Preparation:
  1. Obtain a commercial Salvia tincture or prepare your own by soaking finely chopped leaves in high-proof alcohol (e.g., ethanol) for several weeks.
• Administration:
  1. Place the specified dose under your tongue.
  2. Hold the liquid in your mouth for 15-30 minutes to allow for sublingual absorption before swallowing any residue.

Dosage Guidelines

1. Chewing (Quid Method)

• Light Dose: 2-4 leaves (considered mild, but starting low is advisable)
• Moderate Dose: 5-10 leaves
• Strong Dose: 10-20 leaves (only recommended for experienced individuals)

2. Smoking

(Standardized extracts can vary greatly in potency, so dosing should be approached cautiously.)

• Dried Leaves:
  • Light Dose: 0.25-0.5 grams
  • Moderate Dose: 0.5-1 gram
  • Strong Dose: 1-2 grams
• Standardized Extract (e.g., 5x, 10x, 20x):
  • Light Dose (5x): 0.1-0.2 grams
  • Moderate Dose (10x): 0.1-0.2 grams
  • Strong Dose (20x): 0.05-0.1 grams

3. Sublingual Tincture

• Light Dose: 0.5-1 ml
• Moderate Dose: 1-2 ml
• Strong Dose: 2-4 ml

Safety and Precautions

1. Environment:
   • Use Salvia in a safe, comfortable, and controlled setting.
   • Have a sober sitter present to ensure safety.
2. Start Low:
   • Always start with a lower dose to gauge your reaction.
3. Duration:
   • Effects of smoked Salvia are short-lived, typically lasting 5-20 minutes.
   • Effects of chewing or tincture can last longer, up to 1-2 hours.
4. Risks:
   • Salvia can induce very intense, and sometimes frightening, hallucinations and altered states of consciousness.
   • It can impair motor skills and judgment, so avoid operating machinery or driving.
5. Legal Status:
   • Check the legal status of Salvia divinorum in your area, as it is regulated in many regions.

Conclusion

Salvia divinorum can provide profound experiences but must be approached with caution due to its potency. Proper preparation and mindful dosing are crucial. Always prioritize safety by starting with low doses, ensuring a secure environment, and having a trusted person present during use.

c. Medical Use

Salvia divinorum, commonly known as Diviner’s Sage, has been traditionally used by Mazatec shamans for spiritual purposes, but it also has potential medical applications that have attracted scientific interest. Here’s a detailed overview of the potential medical uses of Salvia divinorum, along with the current state of research:

Potential Medical Uses

1. Antidepressant Effects

• Potential: Salvia divinorum may possess antidepressant properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Mechanism: The primary psychoactive compound in Salvia divinorum, salvinorin A, acts on the kappa-opioid receptors in the brain. This receptor is distinct from those targeted by typical antidepressants (which often target serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine receptors).
• Research: Some preclinical studies and anecdotal reports suggest that Salvia divinorum may help alleviate mood disorders, but clinical research is still in early stages.

2. Anti-Anxiety Effects

• Potential: Salvia divinorum could be used as a treatment for anxiety disorders.
• Mechanism: The modulation of kappa-opioid receptors by salvinorin A may help to produce anxiolytic effects by altering stress pathways and emotional regulation.
• Research: Limited studies indicate potential benefits, but more clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.

3. Pain Management

• Potential: Salvia divinorum may help in managing pain, offering an alternative to traditional pain medications.
• Mechanism: Salvinorin A’s interaction with kappa-opioid receptors suggests it could play a role in pain modulation and analgesia.
• Research: Some animal studies have shown promising results for pain relief, but human studies are necessary to understand its applicability and safety.

4. Addiction Treatment

• Potential: Salvia divinorum might aid in the treatment of substance abuse disorders.
• Mechanism: The kappa-opioid receptor system has been implicated in addiction and drug craving pathways. Modulation by salvinorin A may reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• Research: Preliminary animal studies suggest potential benefits, but there is a need for data from human trials before it can be recommended for this use.

5. Cognitive Enhancement

• Potential: Salvia divinorum may enhance certain cognitive functions, potentially aiding in memory and learning processes.
• Mechanism: Modulation of kappa-opioid receptors and other neurochemical pathways may underlie these cognitive effects.
• Research: The evidence is mostly anecdotal, with limited formal studies exploring this potential.

Safety and Side Effects

1. Psychoactive Effects:
   • Hallucinations: Salvia divinorum is a powerful hallucinogenic, which can lead to intense and sometimes disturbing visions.
   • Altered Perception: Users may experience changes in sensory perception, time distortion, and dysphoria.
2. Potential Risks:
   • Mental Health: Those with a predisposition to mental health disorders (e.g., schizophrenia) should avoid Salvia due to the risk of exacerbating symptoms.
   • Physical Safety: The altered state of consciousness can impair motor skills and judgment, leading to accidents or risky behavior.

Legal Considerations

• Regulation: Salvia divinorum is controlled or banned in many countries due to its powerful psychoactive properties. It is illegal in several U.S. states and regulated under different classifications in European countries.
• Research Restrictions: The legal status may limit research opportunities and the ability to conduct large-scale clinical trials.

Current Research and Future Directions

• Investigational Use: While Salvia divinorum shows potential for various medical applications, it is primarily in the investigational stage.
• Need for Clinical Trials: Rigorous clinical trials are required to fully understand its safety profile, efficacy, long-term effects, and possible medical applications.
• Ethnopharmacology: Further ethnopharmacological studies could provide insights into traditional uses and new possibilities for medical applications.

Conclusion

Salvia divinorum has intriguing potential for a range of medical uses, particularly in the areas of mental health, pain management, and addiction treatment. However, its powerful psychoactive effects, legal status, and the need for more comprehensive research mean that it should be approached with caution. Always consult with healthcare professionals before considering Salvia divinorum for any medical use, and be aware of the legal restrictions in your area.

d. Active Substances

Salvia divinorum, commonly known as Diviner’s Sage, contains several active compounds that contribute to its psychoactive and potential medicinal effects. The most notable and potent of these compounds is salvinorin A. Here’s a detailed look at the principal active substances found in Salvia divinorum:

Main Active Compounds

1. Salvinorin A

• Description: Salvinorin A is the primary psychoactive compound in Salvia divinorum. It is a unique and potent diterpene.
• Mechanism of Action:
  • Kappa-Opioid Receptor Agonist: Salvinorin A is a highly selective kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) agonist. Unlike many other psychoactive substances that often target serotonin, dopamine, or glutamate receptors, salvinorin A interacts primarily with KORs.
  • Immediate Effects: Activation of these receptors results in intense hallucinations, altered perception, and dissociative effects.
  • Non-Alkaloid: Uniquely, salvinorin A is not an alkaloid, distinguishing it from many other natural psychoactive substances.
• Psychoactivity: It is known for causing short-lived but powerful psychoactive experiences.

Minor Active Compounds

2. Salvinorin B

• Description: Salvinorin B is a non-psychoactive metabolite of salvinorin A.
• Role: While it is not psychoactive, it is considered significant in the biosynthesis and metabolism of salvinorin A in the plant.

3. Other Diterpenes

• Salvinorins C to F: These are related diterpenes found in smaller quantities in Salvia divinorum.
• Potential Effects: Their roles and effects are not well characterized and are considered much less potent than salvinorin A for psychoactivity.

4. Divinatorins and Salvinicins

• Divinatorins A and B: These compounds are part of the diterpene profile found in Salvia divinorum, but their effects are relatively unknown.
• Salvinicins A and B: These are also diterpenes present in the plant, with ongoing research to understand their potential roles and effects.

Summary of Mechanisms

• Kappa-Opioid Receptor Modulation: Salvinorin A’s potent agonism at the kappa-opioid receptors results in profound alterations in consciousness and perception. This mechanism is quite distinct from the commonly known psychedelics, which often act on serotonin receptors.

Key Characteristics of Salvinorin A:

• Selectively binds and activates KORs.
• Causes intense dissociative and hallucinogenic effects.
• Rapid onset when smoked or vaporized, with effects peaking within minutes and lasting under an hour.

Conclusion

Salvia divinorum’s most significant and unique component is salvinorin A, responsible for the plant’s powerful psychoactive effects through its action on kappa-opioid receptors. Minor compounds like salvinorin B and other diterpenes exist in the plant, but their contributions to the overall effects are minimal compared to salvinorin A. Understanding these active substances can guide safe and informed use, as well as further research into the plant’s potential medicinal applications.

e. Effects

Salvia divinorum is known for its unique and potent psychoactive effects. The primary active compound, salvinorin A, produces a range of effects by binding selectively to the kappa-opioid receptors in the brain. These effects can be quite intense, and the experience can vary widely depending on the dose, method of administration, and individual sensitivity. Here is a comprehensive overview of the effects of Salvia divinorum:

Psychoactive Effects

1. Hallucinations

• Description: Users commonly experience vivid, often intense visual and auditory hallucinations. These can range from geometric patterns and fractals to full-blown visionary experiences involving people, places, and scenarios.
• Onset: Rapid onset within seconds to minutes when smoked or vaporized.
• Duration: Effects peak quickly and generally last 5-20 minutes, though residual effects can last up to an hour.

2. Altered Perception of Reality

• Description: Salvia can profoundly alter the sense of reality, leading users to feel disconnected from their body or surroundings. This dissociative effect can make the user feel as though they are in a different world or dimension.
• Mechanism: Activation of kappa-opioid receptors leads to these dissociative states.

3. Changes in Sensory Perception

• Vision: Intensified colors and visual distortions are common, including warping of objects and spaces.
• Sound: Auditory hallucinations or distortions might occur, such as hearing voices or sounds that aren’t there.
• Touch: Enhanced or altered tactile sensations, sometimes feeling as though the body is merging with surroundings.

4. Time Distortion

• Description: Users often report a distorted sense of time. Minutes can feel like hours, and the passage of time can seem to slow down or stop altogether.

5. Loss of Motor Control

• Description: Salvia can impair motor coordination, making it difficult to move or maintain balance.
• Recommendation: It’s important to stay seated or lying down during use to prevent injury.

Emotional and Cognitive Effects

6. Euphoria or Dysphoria

• Description: Some users may experience intense euphoria, while others might feel anxiety, fear, or dysphoria. Emotional responses can be unpredictable.

7. Introspection and Deep Thought

• Description: Salvia can lead to deep, introspective thoughts and a heightened sense of self-awareness. Some users report profound personal insights or a sense of clarity about their life.

8. Memory Impairment

• Description: Short-term memory can be significantly impaired during the experience, leading to difficulty recalling the events that occurred during the trip.

9. Disconnected Thoughts

• Description: Thought processes may become fragmented or nonsensical, with users experiencing rapid shifts in focus and attention.

Physical Effects

10. Dizziness

• Description: A feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness is common.
• Safety: Ensure a safe environment to prevent falls or accidents.

11. Sweating

• Description: Some users may experience increased sweating during the experience.

12. Chills or Goosebumps

• Description: Physical sensations such as chills or goosebumps can occur.

Potential Negative Effects

13. Anxiety and Fear

• Description: The intensity of Salvia’s effects can invoke fear, panic, or anxiety, especially in higher doses or inexperienced users.
• Coping: Having a sober sitter can help mitigate these effects and provide comfort.

14. Confusion and Disorientation

• Description: Users might feel disoriented or confused, unable to comprehend their surroundings or what is happening.
• Coping: Ensure a familiar and safe environment to reduce disorientation.

15. Nausea

• Description: Some users report nausea, although this is less common.

Safety Considerations

1. Set and Setting:
   • Use Salvia in a safe, comfortable, and controlled environment.
   • A sober sitter should be present to ensure safety and provide reassurance.
2. Starting Dose:
   • Start with a very low dose, especially if you are new to Salvia, to gauge your sensitivity and response.
3. Legal Status:
   • Be aware of the legal status of Salvia divinorum in your area, as it is regulated in many places.
4. Health Considerations:
   • Avoid use if you have underlying mental health conditions or are predisposed to psychosis.

Conclusion

Salvia divinorum induces powerful and unique psychoactive effects that can range from intensely profound to overwhelming. Users should approach its use with caution, respect, and preparation to ensure a safe and meaningful experience. Always be mindful of the dosage, setting, and legal considerations involved in using Salvia divinorum.

f. Legality (Europe & USA)

The legality of Salvia divinorum varies significantly across different regions in Europe and the USA. Here’s a detailed overview of its legal status:

United States

The legal status of Salvia divinorum in the USA is complex and varies by state.

Federal Level

• Legal Status: Salvia divinorum is not scheduled under the Controlled Substances Act at the federal level, meaning it is not illegal per se throughout the United States.
• Regulation: Despite its non-scheduled status, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified Salvia divinorum as a “drug of concern,” indicating increased scrutiny and the potential for future regulation.

State Level

The following are examples of states where Salvia divinorum is regulated or banned:

1. California: Illegal to sell or provide Salvia divinorum to a minor.
2. Delaware: Classified as a Schedule I controlled substance.
3. Florida: Illegal to possess, buy, or sell.
4. Illinois: Regulated and considered a controlled substance.
5. Kansas: Schedule I controlled substance.
6. Louisiana: Illegal under state law.
7. Maine: Sale or possession involving a minor under the age of 18 is illegal.
8. Maryland: Sale to minors illegal.
9. Minnesota: Considered a Schedule I controlled substance.
10. Missouri: Banned under state law.
11. New York: Sale or possession illegal.
12. North Dakota: Schedule I controlled substance.
13. Ohio: Illegal.
14. Oklahoma: Schedule I controlled substance.
15. Pennsylvania: Illegal under state law.
16. Texas: Illegal to sell or distribute.
17. Virginia: Sale or distribution restricted.

Europe

The legal status of Salvia divinorum is varied across European countries, with some countries having outright bans and others having more relaxed regulations:

1. United Kingdom:
   • Legal Status: Banned under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, making it illegal to produce, supply, or import Salvia divinorum.
2. Germany:
   • Legal Status: Controlled under the Betäubungsmittelgesetz (Narcotics Act), making possession, sale, and distribution illegal without proper authorization.
3. Netherlands:
   • Legal Status: Was previously available in smart shops, but it has been banned and is no longer legally available.
4. France:
   • Legal Status: Classified as a controlled substance, making its possession, sale, and use illegal.
5. Italy:
   • Legal Status: Scheduled as a controlled substance, making its possession and use illegal.
6. Spain:
   • Legal Status: Not specifically regulated, but sale and use are discouraged. Enforcement can vary by region.
7. Belgium:
   • Legal Status: Banned, making sale and possession illegal.
8. Sweden:
   • Legal Status: Classified as a controlled substance, making its possession, sale, and use illegal.
9. Portugal:
   • Legal Status: While not explicitly listed as a controlled substance, its psychoactive effects make it subject to general prohibitions on unregulated psychoactive substances.
10. Other EU Countries:
    • The legality varies, so it is important to check specific local regulations if you are in a different country.

Conclusion

The legality of Salvia divinorum is a patchwork of regulations, varying significantly between and within countries. In the USA, it is legal at the federal level but banned or controlled in many states. In Europe, it is illegal in many countries, including the UK, Germany, and France, while others may not have explicit regulations but enforce general prohibitions on psychoactive substances.

Before considering the purchase, possession, or use of Salvia divinorum, it is crucial to check the specific legal status in your local jurisdiction to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.