As a lover of all things natural, I believe in harnessing the earth’s bounty for our benefit.
This belief shifts into focus when it comes to natural highs.
The right herbs can help us feel relaxed, elevated, and even euphoric.
But guess what?
These herbs are not your everyday culinary garnish. These are herbs that, when smoked, can induce a natural high. They are not harmful or addictive like some recreational drugs.
And so, I’ve compiled a list of 10 herbs that you can smoke for a natural high.
In this article, we’ll explore each herb in detail – their properties, effects, and how to use them responsibly. But remember, while these herbs are natural and safe to use, moderation is key.
1) Damiana: A gateway to relaxation
Originating from Central and South America, Damiana is a small shrub that has been used for centuries for its mood-enhancing properties.
What makes Damiana stand out in the world of smokable herbs is its potent relaxing properties.
This herb has been traditionally used by indigenous cultures for its calming effects and as a tool for reaching a state of relaxation and mild euphoria.
But how does it work?
Let me explain:
Damiana contains compounds that interact with the nervous system, inducing a sense of relaxation and mild euphoria when smoked.
This natural high is often characterized by a feeling of tranquility and a heightened sense of perception.
As for me, the allure of Damiana lies not just in its psychoactive effects but also in its potential to facilitate deeper self-awareness.
When used responsibly, smoking Damiana can provide an avenue for introspection and emotional exploration, fostering a greater connection with oneself.
2) Mugwort: A dream enhancer
Transitioning to another intriguing herb, let’s discuss Mugwort — a common plant found in Asia, North America, and Northern Europe.
What piques my interest about Mugwort is its reputation as a “dream herb”.
Sounds intriguing, right?
When smoked, Mugwort has been reported to enhance the vividness of dreams and even stimulate lucid dreaming – where one becomes aware they’re dreaming and can potentially control the dream’s narrative.
Now, you might wonder – how does it achieve this?
Scientifically speaking, Mugwort contains a compound called thujone. This compound interacts with our nervous system, influencing our dream states when we sleep.
The act of smoking Mugwort before bedtime can potentially lead to more vivid, memorable dreams and for some individuals, an enhanced ability to explore their subconscious through lucid dreaming.
3) Wild Dagga: The euphoria inducer
From enhancing dreams, we now transition to an herb that’s known for inducing a sense of euphoria – Wild Dagga.
Now, don’t let the name mislead you.
Despite its name, Wild Dagga is not related to Cannabis but is a completely different plant native to Southern Africa.
Here’s where it gets interesting:
Wild Dagga has been traditionally used by indigenous tribes for its mood-enhancing properties.
But how does it do that?
The leaves of Wild Dagga contain a compound called leonurine, which when smoked, interacts with our nervous system, inducing a mild sense of euphoria and relaxation.
But remember, while the effects of Wild Dagga are typically milder compared to other psychoactive substances, it’s still important to use it responsibly.
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to unwind and elevate your mood, smoking Wild Dagga might be an option to consider. This herb offers a unique way to explore your emotional landscape and experience a natural high.
4) Blue Lotus: The spiritual connector
Ever thought about using a natural herb to deepen your spiritual connection?
If so, let me introduce you to Blue Lotus.
This sacred flower was highly esteemed by the ancient Egyptians for its ability to induce a state of tranquility and spiritual awareness.
Blue Lotus contains two key compounds, nuciferine, and aporphine, which are known for their psychoactive properties.
When smoked, these compounds interact with our brain’s dopamine receptors, resulting in a sense of euphoria and enhanced spiritual awareness.
What makes Blue Lotus particularly fascinating to me is its ability not just to induce a natural high but also to facilitate a deeper spiritual connection.
It’s like opening a door to another realm of consciousness where introspection and self-discovery can occur.
5) Passionflower: The calming balancer
After exploring spiritual connections and self-awareness, let’s venture into the realm of balance and tranquility with Passionflower.
This beautiful flower is not just pleasing to the eye but also carries properties that can induce a state of calm and balance when smoked.
The calming effect of Passionflower is attributed to a compound it contains called passiflorine. This compound interacts with our nervous system, promoting relaxation and tranquility.
Smoking Passionflower can offer:
- A natural way to unwind after a stressful day
- A means to balance your mood
- A tool for peaceful introspection
Passionflower invites us to embrace calmness and find balance in our lives.
Consider it a gentle reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle, we all need moments of tranquility to connect with ourselves.
6) Skullcap: The stress alchemist
When it comes to natural herbs for achieving a high, Skullcap is one that I personally find intriguing.
Native to North America, Skullcap has been used by indigenous cultures as a natural remedy for stress and anxiety.
But how does it work?
Let’s get straight to it:
Skullcap contains a unique compound called scutellarin. This compound interacts with our brain’s GABA receptors, which play a crucial role in calming the nervous system.
When we smoke Skullcap, the scutellarin in the herb helps boost the activity of these GABA receptors, leading to a reduction in stress and anxiety.
It’s like a natural stress alchemist, transforming our anxiety into tranquility.
That’s why I belive that including Skullcap into our wellness routine can offer us a natural and effective way to manage stress.
And let’s be honest, in our fast-paced world, we could all use a little more tranquility.
7) California Poppy: The sleep enhancer
Imagine having a long day, feeling stressed, and finding it difficult to sleep. You’ve tried everything but sleep seems to elude you.
If you’ve been in such a situation, you might find California Poppy interesting.
California Poppy is a beautiful flower native to the western United States. What makes it special is its ability to promote restful sleep when smoked.
It contains a compound called eschscholzia, which interacts with our brain’s GABA receptors, just like Skullcap. This interaction promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, making it easier for us to fall asleep.
For me, the magic of California Poppy lies in its simplicity.
It’s not just about inducing a natural high; it’s about providing a natural remedy to one of our most basic needs – sleep.
So if you’re struggling with sleep or just want to enhance your sleep quality, consider adding California Poppy to your evening routine.
Who knows?
It might just be the natural sleep aid you’ve been looking for.
8) Catnip: Your cat’s favorite treat
Yes, you read that right.
The same herb that sends your feline friend into a frenzy can also be smoked by humans for a natural high.
Contrary to what you might think, Catnip doesn’t make you want to chase mice or purr excessively. Instead, when smoked, this herb produces a mild sedative effect that can help you relax and unwind.
It’s like a warm blanket on a cold day – comforting and soothing. Many users report feeling less anxious and more at ease after smoking Catnip.
Interestingly, despite its stimulating effect on cats, Catnip has the opposite effect on humans. It slows down your heart rate and calms your mind, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a natural remedy for stress or anxiety.
Still, remember to consume Catnip in moderation, though. While it’s generally safe for human consumption, smoking too much can lead to headaches or an upset stomach.
9) Wild lettuce: A mild sedative
Also known as “opium lettuce,” this herb isn’t as innocent as it sounds.
Wild Lettuce, originally found in Central Asia and Southern Europe, has a long history of being used as a natural pain reliever.
When smoked, Wild Lettuce can have mild sedative effects. It’s not going to give you the extreme high that some substances might offer, but it can provide a gentle sense of relaxation and ease.
Now for the raw truth:
While Wild Lettuce is natural and generally safe, it isn’t for everyone. Some people may experience side effects like dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating.
It’s also not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with enlarged prostates.
Despite these caveats, Wild Lettuce remains a popular choice for those seeking a natural high. But as with any substance, it’s important to approach it with caution and respect for your body’s limits.
10) Cannabis: The versatile herb
The final herb on our list is one you’re likely familiar with – Cannabis. It’s one of the most widely recognized herbs that can be smoked for a natural high.
Cannabis contains a compound called THC, which interacts with receptors in our brain to induce a range of effects, from relaxation and euphoria to heightened sensory perception.
One aspect that I find particularly fascinating about Cannabis is its versatility. Depending on the strain and method of consumption, it can induce different effects, from calming to energizing.
This makes Cannabis not just an herb for achieving a natural high, but also a potential tool for managing stress, enhancing creativity, and exploring different states of consciousness.
As always, responsible use is key.
Cannabis provides us an opportunity to explore our inner landscape in new and profound ways.
Exploring new avenues in wellness
In the quest for wellness, the exploration of natural herbs offers a unique pathway.
These 10 herbs we’ve discussed each offer their own distinctive experience, from inducing relaxation and enhancing dreams to promoting introspection and spiritual connection.
Incorporating these herbs into your lifestyle can provide new perspectives and tools for personal growth and self-discovery.
However, it’s essential to approach this exploration with respect, responsibility, and an openness to learn.
As we delve deeper into the world of smokable herbs, let’s continue to remember our commitment to holistic wellness, growth mindset, diverse perspectives, and practical applications.