Salvia is now one of the most popular recreational drugs among adolescents and young adult drug abusers. Because it is easy to obtain and carries a low addiction potential, some believe the drug is not toxic. However, there are salvia side effects that carry short-term and long-term risks.

Table of Contents

Recognizing Symptoms to Diagnosis a Salvia Addiction

Although signs of salvia abuse vary with each person, there are some commonalities. Generally, this substance can cause mood swings, hallucinations, and visual distortions. Also, it is not unusual for a person to feel detached from their body. Slurred speech and an irregular heart rate may occur.

Abuse of salvia can become problematic and lead to addiction. With this in mind, a person may display typical signs of substance abuse, such as:

Failing at all efforts to cut back
Being consumed with getting, using or recovering from salvia
Not being able to keep up with responsibilities
Craving salvia
Developing a tolerance to the substance
Continuing to use salvia even when facing health problems
Getting involved with dangerous, risky situations to use the substance

Exhibiting just two or three of these signs indicates a person needs help. Without proper support, a person will have psychological and physical setbacks.

Psychological Salvia Side Effects

Also called salvia divinorum, this drug can have substantial effects on a person’s mind. Its psychoactive component produces potent hallucinogenic effects. A person under the influence of salvia may feel like they are floating or flying.

Additionally, a person may feel heaviness or lightness in their body. Their emotional changes become severe and fast. Before they know it, they begin isolating themselves from others.

Typically, psychological side effects are short-lived. Despite the strength of traveling through space or spinning, symptoms may last less than 30 minutes.

Physical Salvia Side Effects

The physical side effects of salvia divinorum can also vary. What is common is a loss of coordination, particularly when a person’s perception changes. Salvia can cause dizziness, nausea, chills, and uncontrolled laughter.

Unlike heroin or similar drugs, the physical side effects of salvia are not dangerous. However, driving a vehicle while feeling dizzy could create a disastrous situation.

Long-Term Salvia Side Effects

More research is necessary for clarity about the long-term effects of salvia. However, there is evidence of psychiatric symptoms and cognitive deficits from using.

Abusing salvia can lead to structural changes in a person’s brain. With these changes comes the potential for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or psychosis. Low mood levels and general dissatisfaction with life are also common.

Physically, damage to the liver, lungs, or kidneys is possible. When salvia causes a person’s perception of reality to change, they are subject to accidents and injuries.

Struggling to stop abusing salvia before the long-term effects become permanent is crucial. However, it is easier to achieve sobriety with professional assistance.

Get Help Today

Even though salvia is not considered addictive, it still has the potential of causing short-term and long-term damage. Bayview Recovery, a rehab and holistic drug rehab center in Tacoma, WA, can help you.

We offer comprehensive addiction treatment in settings such as:

Don’t allow salvia to cause you to miss out on the best of life. Contact us today at 855.478.3650 for the first step towards ending your use. Our addiction specialists are ready to help you find a path to recovery.