LANSING – The state should prohibit the distribution and consumption of the herb salvia divinorum because of its psychedelic effects, a West Michigan lawmaker says.

“It has a devastating impact on an individual and there is no good reason for any individual in the state to purchase it,” said Rep. Michael Sak, D-Grand Rapids.

The leaves of the plant can be smoked or chewed and can produce a natural hallucinogen, he said.

“If you saw someone under the influence, you would know it’s not good for their health and well-being,” Sak said.

Managers of head shops that sell salvia in Grand Rapids and East Lansing declined to comment for publication.

Sak said salvia is a drug that is available over the counter at head shops and from Web sites.

“As of now, this drug is frighteningly easy to get, and it’s becoming more and more popular among young people as a way to get high,” Sak said.

The legislation would classify salvia as a narcotic, and violators would face the same penalties as for marijuana and methamphetamine possession and distribution.

There are no co-sponsors.

Currently, salvia is illegal in Louisiana, Delaware, Missouri, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Maine and North Dakota. The federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) lists it as regulated in eight foreign countries.

Salvia is grown domestically and imported from Mexico, Central and South America, according to the DEA. The Mazatec Indians in Mexico originally used the drug for religious ceremonies.

James McCurtis, a media relations officer for the Department of Community Health, said the department is reviewing the bill and has no position.

It is pending in the House Health Policy Committee.