photo: zeitrafferin

Salvia Divinorum is a plant used by people throughout the world. It is an herb in the mint family that is often cultivated in Mexico. Salvia can provide mind altering effects, has not been proven to be habit forming, and few if any research studies have been done showing health problems that have developed from its use. Salvia does not show up on common drug tests as it is legal in a majority of states in America. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) states, “Salvia divinorum and salvinorin A are not currently controlled under the CSA. As of October 2009, fourteen states have enacted legislation placing regulatory controls on Salvia divinorum and/or salvinorin A.” Utah is not one of these states.  However Utah Rep. Paul Ray (R) from Clearfield has been constantly trying to outlaw the plant in the state of Utah since 2006. The salvia debate in America often surrounds its transport from Mexico and possible ensuing hallucinations.  The United States has a past history of banning substances likely to cause hallucinations as well as many substances crossing the border from Mexico. If you are concerned about the future of any legal substance you should solicit your local government representative, and if you are involved in legal issues surrounding any controversial substance or herb you should immediately contact a criminal defense attorney well versed in the area.