divinorum

Salvia divinorum, commonly known as diviner's sage or Mazatec sage, is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to the Sierra Mazateca region of Oaxaca, Mexico. The plant contains salvinorin A, a diterpene and the most potent naturally occurring psychoactive compound known. Salvinorin A is a highly selective kappa-opioid receptor agonist, which produces dissociative and perceptual effects that are distinct from classic serotonergic psychedelics.

Traditionally, Salvia divinorum has been used by Mazatec shamans in healing and divination ceremonies. Leaves are prepared by chewing fresh material or are dried and used to make a tea; in modern contexts people also smoke or vaporize dried leaves or resin. The effects are typically intense and short-lived, often accompanied by a sense of detachment, altered space and time perception, and vivid imagery. Onset is rapid when smoked, with durations commonly ranging from a few minutes to around half an hour, though residual effects may be reported. Adverse reactions can include nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and confusion, especially in unfamiliar settings or at higher doses.

Legal status varies widely by country and jurisdiction. Some places regulate or ban the sale and possession of Salvia divinorum or salvinorin A, while others permit possession, use, or sale with few restrictions. The plant is not a federally scheduled substance in many countries, but individual states or regions may impose controls.

Safety considerations include heightened risk for individuals with a history of mental health disorders, potential impairment during use, and the absence of established medical uses. As with any psychoactive substance, informed, cautious handling and adherence to local laws are advised.