Salvia divinorum use and phenomenology: results from an online survey.

A survey of 154 recent users of the hallucinogenic plant Salvia divinorum found little evidence of dysfunctional use or troubling adverse consequences, and no indication of increased schizotypy. Users reported mixed hallucinogenic and dissociative effects, supporting the view that Salvia differs phenomenologically from classic serotonergic hallucinogens like LSD. The functions of use shifted with greater experience, and many respondents used Salvia as an alternative to illegal drugs, but legal prohibition would likely not deter them. The findings suggest a need for psychopharmacologically informed public health responses.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Salvia divinorum is a hallucinogenic plant with ethnopharmacological and recreational uses. It differs from classic serotonergic hallucinogens such as LSD and psilocin in both phenomenology and potent agonist activity of the active component salvinorin A at κ-opioid receptors. Awareness of S. divinorum has grown recently, with both an increase in its public representation and concern over its potential harmful effects. This discussion is particularly relevant as S. divinorum is legal to use in many countries and regions and easily available through online retailers. Drawing upon previous investigations of S. divinorum and other hallucinogens, this study surveyed 154 recent users and questioned them on their use behaviours, consequences of use and other attitudinal measures. Although reporting an extensive substance use history, and considering the limitations of online surveys, there was little evidence of dysfunctional S. divinorum use, and few reports of troubling adverse consequences of use. Furthermore, there was no evidence that users exhibited increased schizotypy. Respondents reported that S. divinorum produced mixed hallucinogenic and dissociative effects, which lends support to assertions that it phenomenologically differs from other hallucinogens with primary serotonergic activity. The functions of use changed with greater experiences with the drug, and although many respondents reported use of S. divinorum as an alternative to illegal drugs it, was apparent that legal proscription would be unlikely to dissuade them from use. These results are discussed with reference to psychopharmacologically informed public health responses to substance use.