MinnesotaâÄôs proposed ban on salvia is completely absurd given the drugâÄôs effects. It is not an addictive drug, and there are hundreds of species naturally growing all over the world. The only proven consequence is the possible hallucinogenic effect that lasts up to fifteen minutes. Based on this effect, scientists are able to monitor certain brain activity that could lead to breakthroughs in the treatment of various mental illnesses including schizophrenia and AlzheimerâÄôs. But none of this is important enough for the various legislators who want to ban salvia based on some ill-conceived notion that it is evil and will greatly contribute to the moral downfall of our country. Salvia has no proven long-term effect on overall health, including brain function, and may help improve the lives of those suffering from mental illness. Now, tax payer dollars will have to cover the costs of every âÄòcrimeâÄô committed. To instill fear based on a lack of solid consequential evidence does a complete disservice the American people. David Zak, University undergraduate student