The use of Salvia divinorum may have adverse health effects. Among other things, it may lead to hallucinations, restlessness, confusion, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and psychosis. An RIVM study has shown that even the recommended quantity may cause these symptoms. That is why RIVM advises against the use of Salvia divinorum.
RIVM also advises the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport to consider limiting or banning the sale of Salvia divinorum (and herbal preparations that contain it as an ingredient). This advice comes from a Ministry-commissioned risk assessment carried out by RIVM. In this assessment, RIVM investigated whether this product posed any health risks.
Psychotropic
Dried Salvia divinorum leaves and herbal extracts are sold in the Netherlands by smart shops, including online smart shops. The herb is used as both a psychotropic and a stimulant. Its effects are caused by the substance salvinorin A.
Most users either smoke the (dried) leaves or extracts or inhale the fumes using an evaporator. The leaves can also be chewed or used to make tea.
Common sage (Salvia officinalis) has a culinary use. Salvia officinalis does not contain salvinorin A and has no hallucinatory effect.