Policy letter bans use of Salvia Divinorum, Spice

  • Published
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The psychoactive hallucinogenic plants Salvia Divinorum and Spice, although sold commercially, are prohibited for use by 82nd Training Wing military members, according to a new wing policy letter.
 
Brig. Gen. O.G. Mannon, commander of the 82nd TRW, prohibited use of the substances for permanent party, Airmen in Training and TDY personnel effective Nov. 3.
 
Salvia Divinorum, also known as "Sally D" and "Magic Mint," is commonly used by smoking and or chewing, producing a perception of bright lights, vivid colors and shapes and distorts objects. The plant affects the central nervous system, which causes altered brain functions that produce the metioned hallucinogenic effects. 

Spice, including Golden Spice, is a mixture of herbs with hallucinogenic effects. The quantity and toxicity of the herbs varies in each product, making some more potent than others. It is typically consumed by smoking, creating a euphoric feeling similar to cannabis.
 
In the general's letter, he said the plants "affect the 82nd Training Wing's mission and the maintenance of good order and discipline at Sheppard Air Force Base. Therefore, all United States military members, regardless of branch of service, who are permanently or temporarily assigned to the 82nd Training Wing are ordered not to use Salvia Divinorum or Spice, whether on base or off."
 
Those who choose to consume the products are subject to disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
 
The general said the improper use of drugs does not match the honor and integrity that goes along with serving in the military.
 
"The wrongful use of any drug, including Salvia Divinorum or Spice, may result in your being court-martialed and/or discharged from the Air Force," he wrote. "Do yourself a favor and make sure not to misuse drugs. You are too important to the Air Force to let that happen."