Get Lit, Legally: 5 Legal Plants to Get You Buzzed

Let’s be real—humans have always looked to nature to alter consciousness. Whether for ceremony, connection, or just a damn good time, plants have long been our co-conspirators in expanding the mind and softening the edges of reality.

And while the word "high" might stir up images of red-eyed stoners and trippy festivals, we're talking about a different kind of elevation here—one that's rooted in reverence, ritual, and yes…a little rebellion.

Here are a few of our favorite legal plants that’ll get you lifted, softened, buzzed, or blissed—all without a trip to the dispensary:

Blue Lotus – The Original Third-Eye Opener

This ancient Egyptian water lily was the nectar of the Nile. Used in sacred ceremonies to reach euphoric and ecstatic states, blue lotus is subtle but sensual—like a soft body buzz wrapped in velvet. You can smoke the dried petals, infuse them into wine (just like the Pharaohs), or sip as a tea before a deep meditation. Said to alleviate pain, sadness, and stagnation, this plant brings gentle waves of pleasure and dreaminess.

Note: She's legal federally but banned in Louisiana. And safety data on long-term use is limited, so go slow and listen to your body.

Kanna – The Heart Opener

Native to South Africa, Kanna is an empathogen—meaning she’ll drop you right into your feels. Often described as “nature’s MDMA,” kanna connects you to joy, empathy, and touchy-feely vibes without the crash. You can chew it, brew it, or smoke it (our fave). Kanna doesn’t warp your visuals, but she can shift your mood, heighten sensation, and make you feel like every song was written just for you.

Salvia – The Intense One

This powerful member of the mint family is not for the faint of heart. Salvia divinorum can crack open your perception and serve up deep, sometimes dark visions. It’s technically legal at the federal level, but outlawed in many states. And while some people have profound experiences, others find it terrifying. Salvia is sacred—and she deserves to be treated that way. If you choose to explore her medicine, have a sitter, a safe space, and a grounded integration practice.

San Pedro – The Desert Gateway

This tall, unassuming cactus hides a long lineage of visionary wisdom. Containing mescaline (a powerful psychedelic also found in Peyote), San Pedro has been used by Indigenous communities for thousands of years in healing rituals. It’s legal to grow but illegal to extract mescaline. That said, some people consume the fresh cactus raw for a ceremonial psychedelic experience. It’s bitter, intense, and not something to do lightly or without guidance.

Amanita Muscaria – The Red-Capped Trickster

Those fairytale mushrooms with the red caps and white spots? Yeah, those are psychoactive. Amanita doesn’t contain psilocybin, but instead muscimol and ibotenic acid, which can create sedative, delirious, or even dissociative effects depending on dose. Some modern herbalists work with low doses (especially in tincture or gummy form) for sleep, tension, and dreamwork. But raw caps can be toxic—so please, please don’t forage and eat these without deep knowledge and preparation.

Nutmeg – The Kitchen Cabinet Psychedelic

Yes, nutmeg. In high doses, nutmeg can absolutely mess you up—but not in a fun way. Large quantities can lead to nausea, delirium, and even organ damage. That said, small amounts (we’re talking micro!) of nutmeg essential oil or tea may offer a floaty, cannabis-like high. Just don’t expect it to be subtle or short-lived—effects can last over 12 hours, so don’t schedule anything important. (And definitely don’t dump the spice jar into your smoothie. We see you.)

Want more information on Nutmeg? Check out this article by Doubleblind Magazine: https://doubleblindmag.com/psychoactive-nutmeg-recipes/

Not all highs are created equal.

And not all plants are here to party. At Untamed Altar, we believe that getting high is sacred—it’s a ritual, a rite, and a rewilding. Whether you’re looking for connection, clarity, or just something a little more cosmic, these herbs can be your allies when used with intention. Our fav way to explore altered states? Our own herbal smoke blend OMEN—infused with Blue Lotus and other plant allies designed to open your crown, calm your nerves, and anchor you in the magic of the moment. She’s your reminder that elevation doesn’t have to mean escape—it can mean embodiment.

Now go forth, roll something up, sip something divine, and remember:

You don’t need to leave your body to feel divine. You just need the right herbs.