Influence of Age on Salvia Divinorum Use: Results of an Internet Survey

Abstract

An Internet-based survey of Salvia divinorum (“salvia”) users was conducted to identify correlates surrounding its use. Salvia-knowledgeable persons were recruited via “social networking Internet websites” (n = 23) where notices were posted on recreational salvia group message boards (n = 69). Data collection included demographics, use circumstances, experiences, and age (current and at first salvia use). A total of 219 surveys were analyzed. Salvia users who were young adults (≤21yrs) at first use favored salvia for fun (OR = 1.94, CI = 1.08–3.49, p = 0.03) or to relieve boredom (OR = 2.06 CI = 1.09–3.91, p = 0.02), while salvia users who were adults (≥22yrs) at first use favored salvia for spiritual effects (OR = 2.63, CI = 1.02–6.75, p = 0.04). Being an adult at first use was associated with higher odds of concurrent marijuana (OR = 2.68, CI = 1.50–4.78, p = 0.0007) or tobacco use (OR = 1.94, CI = 1.05–3.60, p = 0.03). Over half of all respondents reported use reduction or cessation in the past 12 months (114 of 219, 52%), citing dishke of the high (33.3%) or loss of interest in salvia (28.9%). Reports of cessation suggest salvia use may be more attributed to curiosity than continual abuse.