Don't knock the herb

Earlier this year, Senate Bill 38 was submitted to our Legislature, which would add Salvia divinorum to the state's list of scheduled (controlled) substances. Thankfully, this bill will allow controlled use for medical research, because here we have another "herb" fallen victim to the power of the federal and state government.

Some of salvia's top effects are listed as a contemplative sense of peace, a sense of profound understanding and uncontrollable laughter. Surely the federal and state government must be fully aware we have too much of this already in our society, so why not ban it instead.

After all, there are no known health risks associated with its use, and its medicinal use could affect the sales of over the counter drugs, alcohol and tobacco — all things we can’t let happen, now can we?

Nobody opposed SB 38 moving forward, possibly forever banning hojas de Maria Pastora, also known as the leaves of Mary Shepherdess, which is one of many sacred names given to Salvia divinorum. So, it was done, as that is the protocol with lawmakers.

Another non-addictive, non-narcotic medicinal herb has bitten the dust. Maybe catnip is next? I forgive our state government for condemning Salvia before even giving it a chance. As the saying goes, ignorance is bliss.

Dustin Lee Billings

Big Lake