Policy letter bans use of salvia divinorum, spice for special operations Airmen

  • Published
  • By AFNS
  • Air Force Special Operations Command
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  The commercially sold psychoactive hallucinogenic plants salvia divinorum and spice are prohibited for use by Air Force Special Operations Command military members, according to a major command policy letter released in February.

Lt. Gen. Donald C. Wurster, the AFSOC commander, prohibited the use of the substances for Airmen who are permanently assigned, in training or on a temporary duty assignment to AFSOC effective immediately.

Salvia divinorum, also known as "Sally D" and "Magic Mint," is commonly smoked or chewed, producing a perception of bright lights, vivid colors, shapes and distorted objects. The plant affects the central nervous system and alters brain functions 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's typically consumed by smoking, creating a euphoric feeling similar to cannabis.

"The abuse of these products by military members contradicts the nature of the profession of arms, threatens our military readiness and diminishes our ability to conduct the mission entrusted to us," General Wurster stated in the policy letter. "It is my express intent to prevent any drug from affecting the operational readiness or cognitive function of any member of this command."

Members who consume the products are subject to disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The Armed Forces Institute of Pathology staff currently tests for salvia in blood and urine. AFIP officials are also in the process of developing a urine/blood test for spice.

The general said the improper use of apice, household chemicals; chemical inhalants and other over-the-counter medications "are all fundamentally incompatible with Air Force uniformed military service in AFSOC."

"This form of substance abuse has the potential to endanger the life of the individual abuser, as well as the lives of other military members," he said. "Do yourself and those around you a favor. Do not to abuse these substances. You are too important to the Air Force."

The policy letter is posted at www.afsoc.af.mil.