Salvia divinorum: An overview of the usage, misuse, and addiction processes.

Salvia divinorum, a plant used for centuries in South American religious rituals, has become popular among adolescents and young adults as a readily available 'legal high' purchased online. Its main active compound, Salvinorin A, is a potent κ-opioid agonist. Although the short- and long-term effects are not well-studied, it is widely believed to have low addictive potential and low toxicity. However, recent findings suggest that Salvinorin A can precipitate psychiatric symptoms and negatively affect cognition. Its increasing use requires clinicians to be aware of its effects.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Salvia divinorum, a sage plant with leaves that can produce a psychoactive high, has been used for hundreds of years for its psycho-mimetic effects in religious rituals in South America. Salvia has now become popular mainly with adolescents and young adults for the short-lived relatively pleasant experiences many consider a "legal high" and its ready availability through Internet purchases. The main (psycho)active compound in salvia is Salvinorin A, a potent κ-opioid agonist and although the short and long-term effects have not been examined in sufficient detail, it is widely believed to have low addictive potential and low toxicity. Recent findings, however, seem to suggest that Salvinorin A can precipitate psychiatric symptoms and negatively affect cognition. Its ready availability and increasingly widespread use requires clinicians to have knowledge and awareness of its effects.