4 Hallucinogenic Herbs That Are Legal & In Your Garden

For centuries, humans have been drawn to substances that can expand the mind, unlock hidden perceptions, and offer a glimpse into otherworldly realms. From ancient rituals in the Amazon to mystical ceremonies in Siberia, the quest for a deeper connection with the universe has often been fueled by the use of plants and herbs with powerful psychedelic properties. But while many of these substances have since been banned or regulated, there remains a curious world of legal highs still waiting to be discovered. Some of these everyday items might even be sitting in your kitchen right now—ready to take you on a journey beyond the ordinary. So what are these hidden mind-altering wonders, and how do they work?

The Roots of Psychedelic Laws and Regulations

Psychedelic substances have been a part of human culture for thousands of years, primarily used in spiritual and medicinal contexts. However, drug regulation, especially in the United States, is a relatively recent development. The roots of psychedelic regulation trace back to the 19th century when laws were first introduced to control substances deemed harmful or “poisonous.” By the early 1900s, the U.S. began cracking down on mislabeling and improper sales of drugs.

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 further solidified the illegality of many psychedelics, categorizing them as Schedule I substances—those considered to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. This placed them alongside drugs like heroin and cocaine, even though substances like psilocybin mushrooms and mescaline were traditionally used in cultural and religious rites around the world. Today, while some U.S. states are starting to decriminalize or legalize certain psychedelics, the federal stance remains largely prohibitive​.

Globally, regulations vary widely. Countries like Brazil and Peru have legalized the use of certain substances like ayahuasca for religious purposes, recognizing the cultural importance of these plants​.

Legal Highs: Natural Substances That Alter the Mind

Though many psychoactive substances are banned or regulated, there are still a variety of legal natural highs you can access. These substances are often overlooked due to their mild effects and the fact that they don’t tend to be addictive. However, when consumed in specific ways or quantities, they can offer a mind-altering experience.

Nutmeg: A Festive Spice with a Psychedelic Twist

Nutmeg might bring to mind cozy holidays, but in large amounts, it can take you on a trippy journey. Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that, when metabolized, can induce hallucinations and intoxication. Consuming 4 to 8 tablespoons of nutmeg has been reported to cause mild hallucinations, feelings of euphoria, and a distorted sense of time. However, the effects don’t kick in immediately—users report that it takes around 6 hours for the high to begin, often lasting for several days. Despite its psychoactive properties, nutmeg can also cause some unpleasant side effects like nausea, vomiting, and even heart issues, so caution is advised​.

Kava and Damiana: A Relaxing, Euphoric Combo

The combination of kava root and damiana creates a unique legal high. Kava is traditionally used in Pacific Island ceremonies for its calming effects, often compared to mild intoxication. It helps users unwind by inducing a feeling of euphoria and reducing anxiety. On the other hand, damiana, a shrub native to Mexico and Central America, has been known for its libido-enhancing properties, and some users liken its effects to that of marijuana. When combined, kava and damiana can provide a heightened sense of well-being and relaxation​.

Fly Agaric Mushroom: A Psychedelic with a Mythical Aura

The Amanita muscaria, or Fly Agaric mushroom, is one of the most iconic fungi in the world with its vibrant red cap and white spots. But its fame isn’t just based on appearances—this mushroom has long been used for its psychoactive properties. The main active compound, muscimol, induces a range of effects, from euphoria and hallucinations to extreme sedation. Unlike psilocybin mushrooms, Fly Agaric produces a different type of high, often described as lucid and dreamlike, with some users reporting vivid visual distortions and altered perceptions of time and space.

Fly Agaric mushrooms have deep cultural roots, especially in Siberian shamanic rituals, where they were used to enter trance states. These mushrooms don’t contain psilocybin like other hallucinogenic mushrooms, but their psychoactive properties come from ibotenic acid and muscimol, which can cause intense hallucinations and sedation if not properly prepared​.

However, Fly Agaric is also toxic if consumed improperly, leading to nausea, confusion, or even seizures in high doses. Despite its potentially dangerous effects, its symbolic connection to mythology and cultural rituals continues to intrigue people across the world.

Salvia: Mexico’s Gateway to Other Realms

Salvia divinorum, commonly known as salvia, is a powerful psychoactive plant used for centuries in spiritual rituals by the Mazatec people of Mexico. Traditionally, it was believed that salvia allowed users to communicate with divine figures, such as the Virgin Mary, and was used in religious ceremonies for its profound hallucinogenic effects.

The plant contains salvinorin A, one of the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogens, which can induce intense, often otherworldly experiences. When consumed, salvia can cause vivid visual and auditory hallucinations, time distortion, and dissociative states—users often report feeling detached from reality, with some experiencing out-of-body sensations. What makes salvia unique among psychoactive plants is its activation of kappa-opioid receptors, which results in short-lived but intense effects, typically lasting no more than 30 to 45 minutes.

While legal in some U.S. states and countries, salvia’s legality varies, and many regions have restricted its sale and use due to concerns about its potent effects. Even seasoned users warn that salvia is not for the faint of heart, as trips can be highly disorienting and sometimes terrifying.

From Curiosity to Caution: A Safe Approach to Legal Natural Highs

Throughout history, humans have sought ways to alter their states of consciousness, often turning to nature for mind-expanding experiences. Today, while many traditional psychedelics are illegal or heavily regulated, several natural substances, such as nutmeg, kava, and salvia, still offer a legal way to explore these altered states. However, with this accessibility comes responsibility. The line between a mild experience and one that can lead to serious side effects is thin, particularly with substances like nutmeg, which can be toxic in large doses.

By following safety protocols, including starting with low doses, researching the substances, and ensuring you are in a controlled, comfortable environment, these legal natural highs can be enjoyed without compromising your well-being. Whether for relaxation, introspection, or curiosity, legal psychedelics allow modern users to explore mind-altering experiences in a way that echoes the past while staying on the right side of the law.

However, even with legal substances, it’s important to be mindful of potential risks and to approach these experiences with respect and caution. Arm yourself with knowledge, practice moderation, and always prioritize your safety to ensure these natural highs remain a positive experience​.