Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
Recent press draws attention to salvia use
By Staff Writer
There has been an increase in the attention given to the psychoactive herb known as salvia after a video surfaced online of Miley Cyrus abusing it. In addition, a childhood friend of Jared Loughner, the Tuscon shooter, recently revealed that the killer had used the drug.
These developments have led many to take notice of the rise in salvia abuse among teenagers. According to The Partnership at Drugfree.org, salvia divinorum is available as green plant leaves or a liquid extract. It can either be smoked or ingested directly.
When abused, salvia can induce psychedelic effects, but cannot be detected by traditional drug tests, according to an expert in child psychology. Drugfree.org states that the substance's hallucinogenic effects can sometimes cause dramatic and frightening mind-states.
The expert added that 15 states have outlawed the sale of salvia. However, it is still relatively easy for individuals to acquire the substance. There is concern that the celebrity glamorization of the substance may influence a rise in salvia use among young adults.
People of all ages, who use salvia or other substances, may want to seek substance abuse help before an addiction can develop.
