Originally from the cloud forests of Oaxaca, Mexico’s Sierra Mazateca, Salvia divinorum is more often known as just Salvia.
It is often used for its hallucinogenic effects. Salvinorin A, the main active compound in Salvia divinorum, is a potent naturally occurring psychedelic substance.
Salvia has very distinct affects than THC does. While both can shift one’s perspective, that’s about where the similarities end. Many people report feeling powerful and confusing effects from using Salvia, which can include:
- Visual distortions and vivid hallucinations
- Feelings of disorientation, heaviness, or distortion in one’s body
- Changes in mood
- The experience of going somewhere else or being in more than one location at once
- Reflective pauses or temporary disconnection from the present
Despite its potency, these effects rarely last longer than 30 minutes.
In contrast, the effects of cannabis (especially THC-rich strains) are typically milder and stay for longer.
These effects can range from mild to severe and encompass everything from simple bliss and relaxation to paranoia and anxiety at extremely high doses.
Both substances can have varying effects on various people based on factors such as dosage, physiological make-up, and previous exposure to psychoactive drugs.
Salvia’s legal position is unclear, and it is outlawed in many countries and jurisdictions, whereas cannabis is generally accepted for both medical and recreational usage around the world. At least in progressive countries.
Finally, while cannabis is usually thought to be harmless, there is less research on the safety of Salvia, and it may have detrimental psychological effects if used in excess.
Anyone thinking about trying out one of these substances should do so in a responsible manner, in a secure setting, and under the guidance of an experienced professional.
