Salvia is a plant that grows in South and Central America. It comes from Mexico and is typically reserved for use in healing and rituals. The FDA has listed it as a poisonous plant. Salvia divinorum is an herb considered potent for its hallucinogenic properties. It is not believed to disrupt levels of serotonin in the brain, which makes it different than other drugs. A salvia trip is similar to other drugs that produce hallucinations, which is why it is so dangerous. Find out why it is dangerous and how to know if a loved one is struggling with drug use and withdrawal.
Effects of Salvia
The effects of using this drug hit a person rapidly, but also wear off quickly. When someone uses the drug, it might overtake them. The experience is vivid from start to finish. It is believed to interact with parts of the brain related to consciousness, moods, and pain sensations. When someone is under the influence of this drug, the following are common side effects:
- Detachment from self
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Slowed heart rate
- Nausea
When taking this drug, a person can lose complete control. They may even lose touch with reality due to hallucinations. Going on a ‘bad trip’ may include delusions, panic, paranoia, and anxiety.
Signs of Use
When a person use salvia, there are some signs to look out for. This might include some of the following:
- Withdrawal
- Suspcious mail packages
- Presence of plant like material on the person’s clothing
- Appetite or sleep changes
- Out-of-character behavior changes
Dependence and withdrawal are challenging. Taking the drug regularly is likely to produce dependence. When salvia is stopped, people are liable to suffer from headaches, stomach issues, sleep issues, and other things that make it hard for them to manage. Long-term, the side effects can include flashbacks or increased risk of mental illness like schizophrenia or psychosis.
Seeking Help
Addiction can impact a person’s whole life. It may derail their employment, personal lives, and overall health. When a person suffers from addiction, they cannot control the amount of salvia used and how often it is used. Addiction treatment programs can help address why it happens. People can attend group meetings, gain life skills in training, and find support in treatment. The key is to work closely with the family to devise a treatment plan that works for every individual so they can have a long, healthy recovery. Treatment is about finding what works for the individual and not allowing them to struggle if there is help available.
Oceanfront provides a safe space to be vulnerable and try to navigate addiction recovery in a healing way. We believe in the power of connection which is why we have a community of people here to help you recover from addiction. Call us to find out how we can help you navigate addiction recovery: 888-981-4295
