Salvia divinorum is a herbal plant native to the southwest region of Mexico. Traditional preparations of this plant have been used in illness treatments that converge with inflammatory conditions and pain.

The name Salvia meaning 'healthy'. Elizabeth Blackwell (1737) wrote that it had '... all the noble Properties of the other hot Plants; more especially for the Head, Memory, Eyes, and all Paralytical Affections. In short, 'tis a Plant endu'd with so many and wonderful Properties, as that the assiduous use of it is said to render Men Immortal" with which Hans Sloane agreed. Its health giving properties were recorded in the aphorisms of the School of Salerno (fl 9-13th century) - quoted in the Decameron [ c.1350, translated: Why should man die when Salvia grows in the Garden']. Some salvias, such as SALVIA DIVINORUM, contain hallucinogenic compounds.

Used in shamanic ceremonies in Mexico.

Smoking the leaves or drinking an infusion produces hallucinations because of their content of Salvinorin A, which acts on opioid and other receptors. It is unusual as an entheogen because it is a non-alkaloidal diterpene and it is very potent.

Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten. HTA guidelines.