How To Consume Morning Glory Seeds? Safe Practices & Dosage
Morning glory seeds contain LSA (lysergic acid amide), a natural psychedelic compound. Consuming them involves preparing and ingesting the seeds, typically to induce psychoactive effects, but it’s crucial to do so safely and with awareness of the potential risks and ethical considerations.
Understanding Morning Glory Seeds and LSA
Morning glory seeds, particularly those from the Ipomoea violacea species (like Heavenly Blue, Pearly Gates, and Flying Saucers), contain lysergic acid amide (LSA), a naturally occurring analogue of LSD. Unlike LSD, LSA is considered less potent and produces a different, often milder, but still psychedelic experience. Understanding the nature of LSA is crucial before considering consumption.
Intended Use: A Careful Evaluation
Before embarking on any experience with morning glory seeds, it’s vital to critically evaluate your intentions and mental state. The psychedelic effects of LSA can be unpredictable, influenced by factors like individual sensitivity, set (your mindset), and setting (your environment). Individuals with a history of mental health issues, such as schizophrenia or psychosis, should absolutely avoid consuming morning glory seeds due to the risk of exacerbating these conditions. Responsible consumption should always be the priority.
Choosing the Right Seeds and Avoiding Treatments
Not all morning glory seeds are created equal. Only seeds from the Ipomoea violacea species (Heavenly Blue, Pearly Gates, Flying Saucers) contain significant amounts of LSA. Critically, many commercially available morning glory seeds are treated with toxic chemicals to deter consumption.
- Avoid seeds labeled with warnings like “treated” or “coated.” Look for untreated, organic seeds specifically sold for planting purposes.
- Inspect the seeds: They should be a dark, unadulterated color.
Preparation Methods: Extracting LSA
There are several methods for preparing morning glory seeds for consumption, all aiming to extract the LSA while minimizing unwanted side effects. Here are two common techniques:
1. Cold Water Extraction (CWE)
This method is considered the most common and safest for reducing nausea.
- Grind the seeds: Use a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle to finely grind the desired amount of seeds (see dosage guidelines below).
- Soak in cold water: Place the ground seeds in a jar and add cold, distilled or purified water (approximately 100-150ml).
- Agitate and refrigerate: Stir vigorously for several minutes, then seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably 12-24 hours. This allows the LSA to dissolve into the water.
- Filter and discard solids: Use a cheesecloth or coffee filter to strain the mixture, discarding the solid seed material (which contains most of the nausea-inducing compounds). The remaining liquid contains the LSA.
- Consume the liquid: Drink the filtered liquid.
2. Direct Consumption (Less Recommended)
This method involves simply eating the seeds after grinding. However, it is more likely to induce nausea and other unpleasant side effects.
- Grind the seeds: As with CWE, grind the seeds finely.
- Mix with food: Combine the ground seeds with a small amount of easily digestible food, such as yogurt or applesauce. This can help mask the taste and ease digestion.
- Consume cautiously: Eat the mixture slowly and be prepared for potential nausea.
Dosage: Finding the Right Amount
Dosage is highly individual and depends on factors such as seed potency, body weight, and sensitivity. It is crucial to start with a low dose and gradually increase it in subsequent experiences, if desired.
Dose Level | Approximate Seed Count | Effects |
---|---|---|
Threshold Dose | 50-100 | Very mild effects, potentially only slight mood elevation. |
Light Dose | 100-250 | Mild euphoria, altered perception, increased introspection. |
Medium Dose | 250-400 | Noticeable psychedelic effects, visual distortions, changes in thought patterns. |
Strong Dose | 400+ | Intense psychedelic experience, potential for strong visuals and altered reality. |
Important Considerations:
- Err on the side of caution: Start with a low dose, especially for your first time.
- Wait at least 2 hours before considering taking more, as the effects can take time to fully manifest.
- Never combine with other substances, including alcohol or other drugs.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using treated seeds: This can lead to serious health complications. Always ensure the seeds are untreated.
- Taking too high a dose: This can lead to overwhelming and unpleasant experiences. Start low and go slow.
- Ignoring set and setting: Ensure you are in a safe, comfortable environment and in a positive frame of mind.
- Consuming on an empty stomach: This can increase nausea. Eat a light meal beforehand.
- Neglecting harm reduction: Have a trusted friend present (a “trip sitter”) who can provide support if needed.
After the Experience: Integration and Reflection
The psychedelic experience doesn’t end when the effects wear off. Integration is the process of reflecting on the experience and applying any insights gained to your daily life. Journaling, meditation, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist can be helpful tools for integration.
Legal Considerations
The legality of morning glory seeds varies depending on your location. While the seeds themselves are generally legal to possess (as they are often sold for gardening purposes), the extraction and consumption of LSA for psychoactive purposes may be subject to legal restrictions. It is your responsibility to be aware of and abide by the laws in your jurisdiction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the potential side effects of consuming morning glory seeds?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, anxiety, and muscle tension. Less common but more serious side effects can include panic attacks, paranoia, and even psychosis in susceptible individuals. It’s crucial to be aware of these risks and take precautions to minimize them.
How long does it take for the effects to kick in?
The onset of effects can vary, typically ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion. Several factors influence this, including metabolism, dosage, and whether the seeds were consumed whole or as an extract.
How long do the effects of morning glory seeds last?
The duration of the experience typically lasts for 6-10 hours, although residual effects can linger for several hours afterward. This can be affected by dosage and individual sensitivity.
Can you become addicted to morning glory seeds?
While LSA is not considered physically addictive, psychological dependence is possible. Regular and irresponsible use can lead to tolerance and a desire to repeat the experience, potentially interfering with daily life.
Is it safe to combine morning glory seeds with cannabis?
Combining morning glory seeds with other substances, including cannabis, is generally not recommended. The interaction can be unpredictable and may amplify both the positive and negative effects.
Are there any medications that interact negatively with LSA?
LSA can interact with certain medications, particularly antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming morning glory seeds if you are taking any medications.
Can morning glory seeds cause permanent brain damage?
While there is no definitive evidence that LSA causes permanent brain damage in healthy individuals, repeated and excessive use could potentially have negative long-term effects. More research is needed in this area. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions are at greater risk.
How can I reduce nausea when consuming morning glory seeds?
Cold water extraction is the most effective way to reduce nausea. Consuming ginger or taking an antiemetic medication before or during the experience may also help.
What should I do if I have a bad trip?
If you experience a bad trip, try to remain calm and remember that the effects are temporary. Focus on your breathing, change your environment if possible, and have a trusted friend present to provide support. If necessary, seek medical attention.
Are morning glory seeds a good alternative to LSD?
While LSA is chemically related to LSD, it is not a direct substitute. The effects of LSA are generally considered to be milder and less predictable. The experience can also be more introspective and less visually intense than LSD.
How should morning glory seeds be stored?
Morning glory seeds should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place to preserve their potency. Avoid exposure to heat, light, and moisture, which can degrade the LSA content.
Is consuming morning glory seeds ethically responsible?
The ethical implications depend on individual values and circumstances. Consider the potential risks to your health and well-being, as well as the potential impact on others if you experience adverse effects. Always prioritize responsible consumption and harm reduction.