How do You Get Lsa from Morning Glory Seeds? - Plant Care Guide

The LSA (Lysergic Acid Amide) compound found in Morning Glory seeds is naturally present within the seeds themselves, rather than something you "get" from them through complex extraction like a chemical process. The method of "getting" LSA from Morning Glory seeds for psychoactive purposes typically involves simply ingesting the seeds, either whole, ground, or after a simple water extraction, allowing the body to absorb the naturally occurring alkaloids. However, it's crucial to understand that ingesting these seeds for such effects is not only dangerous due to unpredictable potency and negative side effects but also potentially illegal in some jurisdictions.

What is LSA (Lysergic Acid Amide)?

LSA, or Lysergic Acid Amide, is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in the seeds of certain plants, most notably Morning Glory (Ipomoea violacea, Ipomoea tricolor) and Hawaiian Baby Woodrose (Argyreia nervosa). It is structurally related to LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) but has a distinct psychoactive profile.

Here's a breakdown of what LSA is:

• Chemical Name: Lysergic Acid Amide.
• Classification: It belongs to a group of compounds called ergoline alkaloids, which are derivatives of lysergic acid.
• Natural Source: Found in the seeds of plants belonging to the Convolvulaceae family (Morning Glory, Hawaiian Baby Woodrose). These plants produce LSA as a natural defense mechanism against herbivores, particularly fungi.
• Psychoactive Effects: LSA is a psychedelic compound, meaning it can alter perception, mood, and thought processes. Its effects are often described as milder than LSD, with a more dreamlike, sedative, or introspective quality.
• Historical Use: Plants containing LSA have a long history of traditional use in indigenous spiritual and medicinal practices in parts of Mesoamerica, where they were revered for their hallucinogenic properties.
• Difference from LSD: While LSA is a precursor to LSD and shares a similar core structure, LSD is a semi-synthetic compound created in a laboratory, typically far more potent and with a different effect profile than naturally occurring LSA.

Important Note:

It is critically important to understand that using Morning Glory seeds or Hawaiian Baby Woodrose seeds to obtain LSA for recreational psychoactive effects is highly dangerous and comes with significant risks. These risks include unpredictable potency, severe physical side effects (nausea, vomiting, vasoconstriction), psychological distress, and potential legal consequences. This content is for informational purposes only and does not endorse or encourage the use of these substances.

Which Morning Glory Varieties Contain LSA?

Not all Morning Glory varieties contain significant amounts of LSA (Lysergic Acid Amide). If someone is seeking LSA for psychoactive purposes, they typically focus on specific species known for their higher concentrations of these ergoline alkaloids.

The Morning Glory varieties that primarily contain LSA are:

1. 'Heavenly Blue' (Ipomoea tricolor):

   • Description: This is perhaps the most well-known and widely available Morning Glory variety associated with LSA. It produces beautiful sky-blue flowers with white or yellow throats.
   • LSA Content: Its seeds contain LSA and related alkaloids. The concentration can vary significantly between batches, growing conditions, and even individual seeds.
   • Availability: Widely available as ornamental garden seeds.

2. 'Pearly Gates' (Ipomoea tricolor):

   • Description: A white-flowered cultivar of Ipomoea tricolor.
   • LSA Content: Similar to 'Heavenly Blue', its seeds contain LSA.

3. 'Flying Saucers' (Ipomoea tricolor):

   • Description: Features variegated blue and white flowers.
   • LSA Content: Its seeds also contain LSA.

4. 'Ololiuqui' (Ipomoea violacea):

   • Description: This is the species that was historically used by indigenous peoples in Mesoamerica for its psychoactive properties. It produces white or light blue flowers.
   • LSA Content: Known for containing LSA and other ergoline alkaloids.
   • Availability: Less commonly found commercially than 'Heavenly Blue'.

Varieties Generally NOT Used for LSA:

• Most other ornamental Morning Glory varieties, particularly those commonly found at garden centers (e.g., Ipomoea purpurea, Ipomoea nil), typically contain very little to no LSA, or contain different, potentially more toxic alkaloids.
• The seeds of these common garden varieties are also sometimes treated with chemical coatings (fungicides or other deterrents) that are highly toxic if ingested.

Hawaiian Baby Woodrose (Argyreia nervosa):

• While not a Morning Glory, Hawaiian Baby Woodrose is another plant whose seeds contain LSA and are often mentioned in the same context. Its seeds typically have a much higher concentration of LSA than Morning Glory seeds, making them more potent but also more prone to causing severe side effects.

It is absolutely crucial to reiterate that the ingestion of any of these seeds for their psychoactive effects is extremely risky due to unpredictable potency, severe physical side effects (nausea, vomiting, vasoconstriction, muscle spasms), and psychological distress. Moreover, in many places, the use of LSA for recreational purposes is illegal. This information is purely for educational context regarding the compound's natural sources.

What Are the Dangers and Side Effects of Ingesting Morning Glory Seeds?

Ingesting Morning Glory seeds for their LSA (Lysergic Acid Amide) content is highly dangerous and associated with a range of severe and unpredictable physical and psychological side effects. It is not a safe or recreational activity and should be strongly avoided.

Here are the significant dangers and side effects of ingesting Morning Glory seeds:

Severe Physical Side Effects (Common and Often Unpleasant):

1. Extreme Nausea and Vomiting: This is the most common and often debilitating side effect. LSA itself can cause gastrointestinal distress, and the fibrous nature of the seeds, along with other naturally occurring compounds, contributes significantly to intense nausea and prolonged vomiting.
2. Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea: Severe stomach pain and bowel disturbances are frequently reported.
3. Vasoconstriction: LSA can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to:
   • Muscle Cramps and Stiffness: Especially in the legs and jaw.
   • Cold Extremities: Fingers and toes may feel unusually cold or numb.
   • Tightness in the Chest: Can be alarming and uncomfortable.
4. Dizziness, Lightheadedness, and Vertigo: Often accompanies the nausea and can lead to falls or disorientation.
5. Fatigue and Lethargy: Despite potential psychedelic effects, a strong feeling of sedation and tiredness is common.
6. Headache: Intense headaches are often reported.
7. Dilated Pupils: Similar to other psychedelics.
8. Toxicity from Seed Coatings: Many commercially sold Morning Glory seeds are treated with fungicides or other chemical coatings to deter ingestion and prevent spoilage. These coatings are highly toxic if consumed and can cause severe illness, including liver damage, kidney damage, and neurological symptoms. Always assume ornamental seeds are treated.

Psychological Side Effects (Unpredictable and Potentially Harmful):

1. Anxiety, Paranoia, and Panic Attacks: The psychedelic experience from LSA can be overwhelming, leading to intense fear, paranoia, and severe anxiety, especially for individuals unprepared for the effects.
2. Disorientation and Confusion: Users may experience a loss of sense of reality, confusion, and difficulty distinguishing between what is real and imagined.
3. Hallucinations (Visual and Auditory): While often described as milder than LSD, LSA can induce visual and auditory hallucinations, which can be pleasant for some but terrifying for others, leading to a "bad trip."
4. Flashbacks: Some individuals may experience spontaneous recurrence of previous drug experiences (flashbacks) long after initial ingestion.
5. Psychosis: For individuals with underlying mental health vulnerabilities, LSA can potentially trigger or exacerbate psychotic episodes.
6. Duration: The effects can last for 6-12 hours, with lingering effects for much longer, which can be very distressing if the experience is negative.

Due to these severe and unpredictable risks, ingesting Morning Glory seeds for psychoactive purposes is strongly discouraged and is a significant health hazard. This information is provided strictly for educational purposes and to highlight the dangers associated with such activities.

What Are Common Misconceptions About Morning Glory Seeds?

The use of Morning Glory seeds for psychoactive purposes has led to several common misconceptions, often fueled by misinformation or a lack of understanding about their true nature and dangers. Dispelling these myths is crucial for public safety.

Here are some common misconceptions about Morning Glory seeds:

1. "It's a Natural, Safe High":
   • Myth: The idea that because something comes from a plant, it is inherently safe or "natural" for recreational use.
   • Reality: This is profoundly false. Many plants contain powerful toxins (e.g., hemlock, oleander, nightshade), and LSA itself comes with severe physical and psychological risks. The "natural" origin does not equate to safety, especially given unpredictable potency and negative side effects.
2. "Just Like LSD":
   • Myth: That LSA from Morning Glory seeds provides an experience identical or even very similar to LSD.
   • Reality: While chemically related, the experience is significantly different. LSA is generally much less potent, often more sedating, nauseating, and dreamlike, with heavier body load and less clearheadedness compared to LSD. The effects are typically much less desirable due to the strong physical discomfort.
3. "The Seeds Don't Have Side Effects if You Extract the LSA":
   • Myth: That processing or "extracting" the LSA eliminates the unpleasant physical side effects like nausea and vomiting.
   • Reality: Simple home extractions are often ineffective at isolating pure LSA and frequently fail to remove the other compounds in the seeds that contribute to nausea, vasoconstriction, and other adverse effects. Even purified LSA can cause some physical discomfort. Moreover, performing chemical extractions at home can be extremely dangerous due to the use of hazardous solvents.
4. "All Morning Glory Seeds Are the Same":
   • Myth: That any variety of Morning Glory seed can be used for LSA.
   • Reality: Only specific varieties, primarily Ipomoea tricolor cultivars like 'Heavenly Blue' and 'Pearly Gates', and Ipomoea violacea ('Ololiuqui'), contain significant LSA. Many other common ornamental varieties (e.g., Ipomoea purpurea, Ipomoea nil) either contain no LSA or different alkaloids that can be more toxic and less psychoactive. Furthermore, commercially sold ornamental seeds are often chemically treated (e.g., with fungicides) which are highly poisonous if ingested.
5. "You Can't Die From It":
   • Myth: While rarely directly fatal in a healthy adult (unless compounded by pre-existing conditions or other substances), the severe physical side effects (extreme dehydration from vomiting, severe vasoconstriction) and the potential for a psychologically overwhelming "bad trip" can lead to dangerous situations (e.g., accidents, self-harm) that can be fatal. Ingesting chemically treated seeds can certainly be lethal.
   • Reality: It can cause severe distress and potential medical emergencies.

These misconceptions dangerously downplay the significant risks associated with ingesting Morning Glory seeds for recreational purposes. It is crucial to rely on accurate, scientifically vetted information regarding any substance consumption.

What Are Other Plants with Naturally Occurring Psychedelics?

Beyond Morning Glory seeds, numerous other plants around the world naturally contain psychedelic compounds, many of which have been used for centuries in traditional spiritual and medicinal ceremonies. Understanding these plants is part of a broader study of ethnobotany and psychoactive substances in nature.

Here are some other plants with naturally occurring psychedelics:

1. Psilocybe Mushrooms (Magic Mushrooms):
   • Compound: Psilocybin and psilocin.
   • Plant Type: Fungi (not technically plants, but often discussed in this context).
   • Origin: Found worldwide.
   • Effects: Induce profound changes in perception, mood, and cognition. Used historically by indigenous cultures.
2. Peyote Cactus (Lophophora williamsii):
   • Compound: Mescaline.
   • Plant Type: Spineless cactus.
   • Origin: Native to the deserts of the southwestern US and Mexico.
   • Effects: Visual and auditory hallucinations, altered thought processes. Has a long history of ritual use by Native American tribes.
3. San Pedro Cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi, formerly Trichocereus pachanoi):
   • Compound: Mescaline.
   • Plant Type: Columnar cactus.
   • Origin: Andes Mountains of Peru and Ecuador.
   • Effects: Similar to Peyote, but often described as gentler. Also has a long history of traditional use.
4. Ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi and other admixtures):
   • Compound: DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) from plants like Psychotria viridis, and MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine that make the DMT orally active.
   • Plant Type: A vine and various admixtures, brewed into a potent tea.
   • Origin: Amazon rainforest.
   • Effects: Profound, long-lasting visions, spiritual insights, often accompanied by strong purging effects (vomiting, diarrhea). Central to shamanic practices.
5. Salvia divinorum:
   • Compound: Salvinorin A.
   • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial.
   • Origin: Sierra Mazateca region of Oaxaca, Mexico.
   • Effects: Very intense, short-acting dissociative and hallucinogenic effects. Used traditionally by Mazatec shamans.
6. Datura / Brugmansia (Angel's Trumpets):
   • Compound: Scopolamine, atropine, hyoscyamine (tropane alkaloids).
   • Plant Type: Flowering shrubs/trees.
   • Origin: Worldwide.
   • Effects: Powerful deliriant and hallucinogenic effects, often associated with terrifying and disorienting experiences, severe physical toxicity, and a very high risk of fatal overdose. Extremely dangerous and not recommended for any use.

This overview highlights the incredible diversity of naturally occurring psychoactive substances in the plant kingdom and their deep historical and cultural significance in various traditions. However, it is essential to emphasize that the recreational use of any of these substances carries significant and often unpredictable risks, and many are illegal. This information is purely for academic and educational purposes.

The Importance of Responsible Use and Legal Considerations

The discussion around LSA from Morning Glory seeds and other naturally occurring psychedelics invariably leads to the critical topic of responsible use and legal considerations. For general public safety and understanding, it is paramount to address these aspects clearly and unequivocally.

Importance of Responsible Use:

1. Unpredictable Potency: Natural sources of psychoactive compounds have highly variable potency. The concentration of LSA in Morning Glory seeds, for example, can differ wildly depending on the species, cultivar, growing conditions, age of seeds, and even individual seeds. This makes accurate dosing impossible and significantly increases the risk of an overdose or a far more intense experience than anticipated.
2. Severe Side Effects: As discussed, the physical side effects of Morning Glory seeds (extreme nausea, vomiting, vasoconstriction, muscle cramps) are often severe and unpleasant. The psychological effects can be terrifying, inducing intense anxiety, paranoia, disorientation, and even triggering psychotic episodes, especially in vulnerable individuals.
3. Chemical Treatments: Commercially sold ornamental Morning Glory seeds are almost always coated with toxic fungicides or other deterrent chemicals to prevent ingestion and spoilage. These chemicals are highly poisonous and can cause severe illness or death if consumed. Never ingest commercially sold ornamental seeds.
4. "Bad Trips": Psychedelic experiences, particularly with unpredictable natural substances, can easily become overwhelming and terrifying "bad trips," which can lead to psychological trauma, dangerous behavior (e.g., running into traffic), or self-harm.
5. Interaction with Other Substances/Conditions: Ingesting LSA or other psychoactive plants can have dangerous interactions with prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, alcohol, or pre-existing physical or mental health conditions.
6. Lack of Medical Supervision: Recreational use occurs without medical supervision, meaning there's no immediate access to help if a severe adverse reaction occurs.

Legal Considerations:

1. Variability by Jurisdiction: The legal status of LSA and plants containing it can vary significantly by country, state, or even local municipality.
2. LSA as a Controlled Substance: In many jurisdictions, LSA itself is classified as a Schedule III or Schedule I controlled substance, similar to other hallucinogens. This means possession, sale, or distribution can carry severe legal penalties.
3. "For Cultivation Only" Loophole (Often Misunderstood): While Morning Glory seeds are widely available for ornamental cultivation, the act of purchasing or possessing them with the intent to extract or consume LSA for psychoactive purposes can be illegal, even if the seeds themselves are not explicitly banned. Laws often target the intent of use rather than just the substance itself.
4. Federal vs. State Laws: Federal laws may prohibit the processing of such seeds for LSA, while state laws might have additional regulations or outright bans on certain plants.
5. Consequences: Penalties can range from fines and community service to severe jail time, depending on the jurisdiction and the quantity involved.

Therefore, it is unequivocally stressed that engaging with Morning Glory seeds for psychoactive purposes is both medically dangerous due to severe and unpredictable side effects and legally risky due to laws governing controlled substances and intent of use. This content serves only as an informational resource and does not promote or condone the use of these substances.