Health Iowa Q&A

I recently talked to a friend and they said they had used Salvia. What is salvia?

Salvia, also known as “magic mint”, or “diviner’s sage” is a member of the mint family. The plant can grow very tall, has large green leaves and purple flowers. It is widely used by the Mazatec Indians for their belief of its divination and healing.1 Salvinorin A, is believed to be the ingredient responsible for hallucinogenic effects of Salvia.

The most common way to ingest the Salvia plant is by smoking or chewing the leaves. The effects of the Salviorin A are perception of bright lights, vivid colors and shapes, and body or object distortions. People may also become dysphoric, have uncontrolled laughter, or an out of body experience. Other, more dangerous effects, can include dizziness, uncoordination and slurred speech. These effects can last up to thirty minutes.

According to SAMSHA, a national survey on drug use in February 2008 reported that “1.8 million persons aged 12 or older used salvia in their lifetime, and 750,000 did so in the last year.” 1 For this reason, this drug is being looked upon with greater concern by state governments. As of 2008, twelve states have placed regulatory controls on Salvia, and 13 other states, including Iowa have legislation pending.

If you would like more information or need help with a substance abuse issue, call Health Iowa at 335-8394 to set up an appointment with our substance abuse counselor.

1. Office of Diversion Control. (2008). Salvia Divinorum and Salvinorin A. Retrieved November 14, 2008 from Drugs and Chemicals of Concern 

Lindsey Sirowy, BA
Graduate Assistant
Health Iowa/Student Health Service

Written 11/14/2008