The seeds of the morning glory, genus Ipomoea of the family Convolvulaceae, contain many lysergic acid derivatives, particularly lysergic acid amide. The hallucinogenic properties of some of these derivatives are not known. The seeds can be ingested whole; they can be ground and used to prepare a tea; or the active compound can be extracted using solvents. The seeds have also been used as a source of precursors for the synthesis of LYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE (LSD). Since the seeds contain lysergic acid derivatives, people ingesting morning glory seeds may feel "different"; however, the experience is not identical to an LSD-type "trip," even though the seeds are marketed on the street as an LSD equivalent.

Figure1 Morning Glory

Although morning glory seeds are easy to purchase legally, many varieties (those sold by reputable garden-supply distributors) have been treated with insecticides, fungicides, and other toxic chemicals—as well as with compounds that will induce vomiting if the seeds are eaten.

See Also

Hallucinogenic Plants; Mescaline)

Bibliography

EFRON, D. H., HOLMSTEDT, B., & KLINE, N.S. (EDS.) (1979). Ethnopharmacologic search for psychoactive drugs. New York: Raven Press.