PUBLICIZING SALVIA WILL LEAD TO MORE KIDS TRYING IT

Re: Sale of herb stirs parents to action, Forester front, May 4.

Having read the article about salvia divinorum, I have to say I'm more than
a little concerned about the sensationalist edge to it. The absolute worst
way to try and discourage teenagers from trying something is to publicize
it, especially when it's sensationalized with claims that it is "popular
for many teens," and that it can take you "away to a different land" with
"little people."

Tell teenagers the truth -- that most people who try it only try it once,
because it is not an enjoyable experience. Tell them also that since salvia
is a strong dissociative, it can be very dangerous to use when alone. I
agree its sale should be restricted to adults, but sensationalizing it is
only going to result in more teenagers trying it out.

Derek Snider

Toronto