Forensic Identification of Salvia divinorum and Salvinorin A

Salvia divinorum, a hallucinogenic plant from the mint family, is increasingly used as a drug, prompting research into methods for identifying its material. Common techniques include UV/Vis, TLC, and GC/MS, while two other widely used identification methods have been found ineffective for this plant. The article also describes an extraction method.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Salvia divinorum is a member of the mint family that is growing in popularity in the United States and many other countries as a hallucinogenic drug. Because of this, numerous studies have been conducted in identifying the plant material. Some of the most common methods include UV/Vis, TLC, and GC/MS. This article discusses these methods, as well as two other common identification methods proven to be ineffective towards salvia. An extraction method is also discussed.