Herbal substances have long been used as drugs of abuse, with traditional addictive substances like opium and cannabis often being derived from natural, crude plant materials. Cannabinoids and cathinones, for example, are natural derivatives. However, the safety and efficacy of these substances remain significant concerns that require attention and increased awareness. This review highlights various plants, including khat, kratom, salvia, and mandrake, to inform both experts and the general public about the potential risks associated with regular use and synthetic derivatives. Some of these “herbal plants” should be recognized as harmful substances, as prolonged use has been linked to addiction and cognitive impairments. Despite ongoing research, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies addressing these issues. This paper explores the toxicological concerns and key safety risks associated with plant-based products. Ensuring the safety and reliability of herbal remedies is of paramount importance, given ongoing concerns about their use.
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