Vegetative anatomy and micromorphology of Salvia divinorum (Lamiaceae) from Mexico, combined with chromatographic analysis of salvinorin A

J Nat Med. 2014 Jan;68(1):63-73. doi: 10.1007/s11418-013-0769-9. Epub 2013 Apr 21.

Abstract

Salvia divinorum--a species traditionally cultivated in Oaxaca, Mexico--possesses hallucinogenic properties. It is legally recognized as a controlled substance and prohibited in many countries. The proper identification of the plant, both in fresh and dried forms, is an important issue in crime-prevention campaigns. This paper provides a thorough anatomical description of leaves, petioles, and stems of S. divinorum. Detailed investigation of foliar trichomes was performed and illustrated. In addition, chromatographic analyses, including TLC and HPLC, were applied to fresh and dried plant material, together with the standard reference salvinorin A. A comprehensive identification method for S. divinorum based on a thorough anatomical examination is proposed, combined with chemical analysis for proper plant recognition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Calibration
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid / standards
  • Chromatography, Thin Layer / standards
  • Diterpenes, Clerodane / analysis*
  • Mexico
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Leaves / anatomy & histology
  • Plant Leaves / chemistry
  • Plant Stems / anatomy & histology
  • Plant Stems / chemistry
  • Plants, Medicinal
  • Reference Standards
  • Salvia / anatomy & histology*
  • Salvia / chemistry*
  • Salvia / classification

Substances

  • Diterpenes, Clerodane
  • salvinorin A