Ethnobotany – A Guide to Lesser-Known Plants

18 min read

Ethnobotany – the science examining the relationship between humans and plants – reveals a fascinating world of traditional medicinal and psychoactive species that humanity has utilized for thousands of years. While cannabis ranks among the most thoroughly researched representatives, dozens of ot...

Ethnobotany – the science examining the relationship between humans and plants – reveals a fascinating world of traditional medicinal and psychoactive species that humanity has utilized for thousands of years. While cannabis ranks among the most thoroughly researched representatives, dozens of other plants possess remarkable pharmacological properties deserving attention from both the general public and scientific community alike.

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This guide introduces eight ethnobotanical plants gaining growing popularity in Europe. For each, we focus on botany, active compounds, effects, traditional use, available scientific research, legal status in the Czech Republic, and safety profile. The aim is to provide factual information, not to promote use – before any experimentation, always consult your health status with a physician.

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa)

Botany and Origin

Kratom is a tropical tree from the Rubiaceae family (madder family), reaching heights of up to 25 meters. It originates from Southeast Asia – specifically Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Myanmar. Its leaves contain over 40 alkaloids; the pharmacologically most significant are mitragynine (comprising approximately 66% of the alkaloid profile) and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which exhibits significantly higher binding affinity to opioid receptors.

Effects

Kratom is pharmacologically unique in its dose-dependent biphasicity – at low doses it acts stimulantly, at higher doses sedatively:

Dose Effect Mechanism
Low (1–3 g) Stimulating, energizing, increased focus Adrenergic receptors
Medium (3–5 g) Analgesic, anxiolytic, euphoric Opioid μ-receptors (partial agonist)
High (5–8 g) Strongly sedative, analgesic Full μ-receptor agonism

Mitragynine as a partial μ-opioid receptor agonist does not produce the pronounced respiratory depression characteristic of classic opioids – precisely this is the primary cause of fatal morphine or fentanyl overdoses. This property has been subject to research regarding development of new analgesics with lower risk profiles.

Strains (vein colors)

  • Green vein – balanced combination of stimulating and relaxing effects, suitable for beginners
  • White vein – predominantly stimulating and nootropic effect, popular as a morning coffee alternative
  • Red vein – prevailing sedative and analgesic properties, most commonly used in afternoon and evening

Traditional Use

Farmers and laborers in Southeast Asia have chewed fresh kratom leaves for centuries – primarily to increase work endurance and suppress pain during physically demanding labor. In traditional Thai medicine, kratom served against diarrhea, cough, and as an affordable opium substitute in regions with limited healthcare access.

Safety and Risks

  • Habituation – regular daily use develops tolerance and can create physical dependence
  • Withdrawal symptoms – similar to mild opioid withdrawal: insomnia, irritability, muscle and joint pain, sweating
  • Interactions – combining with opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol is potentially dangerous and may lead to CNS depression
  • Contamination – low-quality products without certification may contain heavy metals or pathogens (Salmonella spp.)

Kratom is legal in the Czech Republic (status as of March 2026). EU-wide regulation is fragmented – in Denmark, Poland, Sweden, Lithuania, Latvia, and Romania, the substance is banned. Debate about possible regulation is ongoing at the Czech level; it is advisable to monitor legislative developments.

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum)

Botany and Origin

Kanna is a succulent plant from South African flora. The Khoisan and San peoples utilized it for thousands of years under the name kaugoed (literally "something to chew") to suppress hunger, fatigue, and anxiety during hunting expeditions. The main active alkaloids are mesembrin, mesembrenon, and tortuosamine.

Effects

Kanna acts as a natural antidepressant and anxiolytic. Mesembrin is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) – it shares the basic mechanism with pharmaceutical SSRI antidepressants but with a markedly milder and shorter effect profile. Additionally, it inhibits phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), an enzyme associated with inflammation and cognitive function, which explains the observed anti-inflammatory and nootropic effects.

Form of use Onset Duration Characteristics
Sublingual 15–30 min 2–4 h Most effective, direct mucosal absorption
Tea/infusion 30–60 min 2–3 h Milder onset, traditional form
Snuffing 5–10 min 1–2 h Fastest onset, traditional Khoisan method
Capsule 45–90 min 3–5 h Slowest, most consistent dosing

Safety

Kanna demonstrates a favorable safety profile. A randomized clinical trial by Terburg et al. (2013) demonstrated anxiolytic effects of 25 mg mesembrin without serious adverse effects. Critical contraindication: kanna preparations must not be combined with SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAO inhibitors – serotonin syndrome is a risk, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Legal. Kanna is not listed among controlled substances in the Czech Republic or the EU.

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)

Botany and Origin

Blue lotus – also called Egyptian lotus or blue water lily – is an aquatic plant originating from the Nile Delta and East Africa. In ancient Egypt, it held sacred status: its depiction adorns tomb wall paintings, papyrus scrolls, and the text of the Book of the Dead. The psychoactive effects are primarily attributable to nuciferine (aporphine alkaloid) and apomorphine (dopamine agonist).

Effects

Blue lotus is a mild euphoric relaxant with a predictable profile:

  • Mild euphoria and overall sense of wellbeing
  • Relaxation without marked sedation or cognitive dulling
  • Increased sensuality – subjective intensification of perception of colors, sounds, and touch
  • Mildly aphrodisiac effects documented in traditional sources
  • Support for lucid dreaming – when used before sleep, may prolong REM phases and increase vividness of dreams

Nuciferine modulates dopamine and serotonin receptors; apomorphine acts as a direct dopamine agonist. The synergistic action of both substances creates a subtle, pleasant state without aggressive intoxication or risk of loss of control.

Traditional Use

Ancient Egyptians macerated lotus in wine – alcohol accelerated alkaloid extraction and likely intensified the overall effect. Lotus symbolized creation, solar energy, and rebirth. In traditional Thai medicine, roots and flowers are used as a tonic and to calm the nervous system.

Forms of Use

  • Tea – 5–10 g of dried flowers steeped in boiling water for 10–15 minutes
  • Tinctures – alcohol extract administered sublingually for faster absorption
  • Wine – traditional Egyptian method: macerate fresh or dried flowers in wine for 1–3 weeks
  • Vaporization – dried flowers at 100–125 °C

Blue lotus has a low risk profile. Side effects are rare and limited to mild nausea upon overdose. Legal in the Czech Republic – not listed among controlled substances. In some jurisdictions (Louisiana state in the USA, Russia), it is regulated as a psychoactive substance.

Kava (Piper methysticum)

Botany and Origin

Kava is a shrub from the Piperaceae family (pepper family), cultivated exclusively in Oceania – in Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Samoa, and the Hawaiian Islands. For thousands of years, it has formed the center of social and ceremonial rituals of Pacific cultures, where "kava ceremony" serves the function of a social bond. The active compound is kavalactones – a mixture of lactones (kavanin, desmethoxyyangonin, yangonin, and others) with anxiolytic, muscle-relaxing, and analgesic properties.

Effects

Kava ranks among the best scientifically researched natural anxiolytics:

  • Anxiolytic – anxiety reduction comparable to low doses of benzodiazepines, confirmed by meta-analysis by Pittler & Ernst (2003) in the Cochrane Database
  • Muscle-relaxing – targeted relief of muscle tension without overall sedation
  • Social facilitation – increased openness and communicativeness without loss of mental clarity
  • Mildly euphoric – pleasant sense of wellbeing that does not impair cognitive performance
  • Analgesic – local numbing of oral mucosa during consumption is direct evidence of effectiveness

Preparation

Traditional preparation involves grinding the root, soaking in cold water, and filtering through a cloth filter. Modern alternatives include instant kava, capsules with extract, and concentrated kavalactone extracts.

Critical note: Use exclusively the side roots (lateral roots) – above-ground plant parts contain hepatotoxic compounds pipermethysticin and flavokavins, which are associated with liver damage.

Safety

The question of kava hepatotoxicity remains a subject of expert discussion. In 2002, Germany banned it due to reported cases of liver damage. Subsequent WHO analysis (2016) found that the vast majority of adverse cases involved either low-quality extracts from above-ground parts, combination with alcohol, or individuals with preexisting liver disease. Traditional preparation from roots has an acceptable safety profile according to WHO with moderate use.

Contraindications: History of liver disease, concurrent use of alcohol, SSRIs, or benzodiazepines.

Legal. Kava kava is freely available in the Czech Republic as a dietary supplement.

Salvia divinorum (Diviner's Sage)

Botany and Origin

Salvia divinorum is a perennial herb from the Lamiaceae family (mint family), endemic to misty mountain forests of Mexico's Oaxaca state. Mazatec shamans have utilized it for generations in divination and healing rituals, where it bears the name ska María Pastora (Herb of the Virgin Mary the Shepherdess). The active compound is salvinorin A – a diterpenoid ketone and simultaneously the strongest naturally occurring psychoactive substance known.

Effects

Salvinorin A is a selective κ-opioid receptor agonist – a mechanism entirely different from classic psychedelics, which work primarily serotonically. Effects are intense, brief, and considerably unpredictable:

  • Radical alteration of reality perception – spatial and temporal disorientation to reality fragmentation
  • Dissociation – strong sensation of separation from one's own body or surroundings
  • Visual hallucinations – geometric patterns, transformation of surrounding space, contact with "other entities"
  • Loss of identity – phenomenon of ego dissolution, merging with surroundings
  • Duration – 5–20 minutes with inhalation, 30–60 minutes with slow absorption through chewing leaves

Safety

Salvia does not exhibit a toxic profile at typical dosing and has no addictive potential. The dominant risks are psychological – the intensity of the dissociative experience can be profoundly disorienting, even traumatizing, especially for those without prior experience. Combining with other psychoactive substances is strongly inadvisable. The presence of a sober and informed companion (a so-called sitter) is an absolute necessity with every use.

Legal (status as of March 2026). Salvia divinorum is not listed among controlled substances in the Czech Republic. In numerous European countries (Belgium, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Sweden, and others), it is regulated or completely banned.

Damiana (Turnera diffusa)

Botany and Origin

Damiana is an aromatic shrub native to Mexico and Central America, commonly growing in dry subtropical regions. The Maya and Aztecs considered it an aphrodisiac and strengthening tonic. Botanically relevant components include flavonoids (pinocembrin, acacetin), terpenic compounds (thymol, cineol, alpha-pinene), and trace amounts of caffeine; traditionally discussed compound is also arbutin.

Effects

  • Mildly aphrodisiac – traditional reputation was supported by preclinical studies on animal models with diminished libido
  • Anxiolytic – flavonoids exhibit affinity for GABA-A receptors, similarly to chrysin from passion flower
  • Mildly stimulating – gentle energy increase without the overstimulation typical of caffeine
  • Carminative and digestive – traditional use for bloating, cramps, and digestive disorders

Forms of Use

The most common form is tea (1–2 teaspoons of dried herb steeped for 10 minutes) or alcohol tincture. Damiana is also a traditional ingredient in Mexican herbal liqueur and historically was among popular ingredients in aromatic blends for vaporization.

Damiana is very well-tolerated at recommended dosing. Contraindications include diabetes (may affect blood glucose) and pregnancy. Legal in the Czech Republic – commonly available as herbal tea and dietary supplement.

Wild Dagga (Leonotis leonurus)

Botany and Origin

Wild dagga or lion's ear is a striking South African shrub with dense clusters of vivid orange flowers. Khoisan and Zulu peoples traditionally smoked it as a cannabis substitute, both in ritualistic and recreational contexts. The mild psychoactive effects are attributable to leonurin – an alkaloid with relaxing, antispasmodic, and mildly sedative properties.

Effects

  • Mild relaxation and sense of wellbeing comparable to very low cannabis dose, yet significantly less intense
  • Lightly sedative character without mental cloudiness
  • Analgesic properties used in traditional Zulu medicine for headaches and joint pain
  • Duration – approximately 1–2 hours with smoking, 2–4 hours with tea preparation

Forms of Use

Dried flowers and leaves are smoked, vaporized at 180–200 °C, or prepared as an infusion. In herbal blends, wild dagga is often combined with cannabis, kanna, or passion flower for synergistic effect.

At typical dosing, wild dagga is safe. Scientific evidence remains limited – most available data comes from ethnographic records and preclinical studies. Legal in the Czech Republic.

Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata)

Botany and Origin

Passion flower is a climbing herb originating from North and Central America. It received its name from Spanish missionaries who perceived symbols of Christ's Passion (passio) in the geometric structure of its flower. Pharmacologically active components include flavonoids (chrysin, vitexin, isovitexin), harmala alkaloids (harman, harmin, harmalol), and naturally occurring GABA.

Effects

Passion flower ranks among the best clinically documented natural sedatives available in Europe:

  • Anxiolytic – a randomized study by Akhondzadeh et al. (2001) demonstrated comparable effectiveness to oxazepam in patients with generalized anxiety disorder, without impairment of work performance
  • Hypnotic – a double-blind study by Ngan & Conduit (2011) confirmed shortened sleep onset time and improved subjective sleep quality
  • Antispasmodic – relaxation of smooth muscle in the intestines, suitable for psychosomatically conditioned digestive complaints
  • Analgesic – mild pain suppression through GABAergic pathway

Chrysin binds to the benzodiazepine binding site of the GABA-A receptor – the same target as Diazepam or Alprazolam, but with significantly lower affinity and without the risk of dependence development or rebound phenomenon after discontinuation.

Forms of Use

  • Tea – 1–2 teaspoons of dried herb steeped for 10–15 minutes; ideally 30–60 minutes before sleep
  • Tinctures – 30–60 drops sublingually before sleep or during acute anxiety
  • Capsules – standardized extracts (400–500 mg) for consistent dosing
  • Combinations – work synergistically with valerian (Valeriana officinalis), hop cones, or lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Passion flower has an excellent safety profile confirmed by both clinical studies and EU institutions. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) classifies it as a traditional medicinal plant intended for "temporary relief of mild psychological stress symptoms and sleep support". Contraindications: concurrent use of MAO inhibitors (harmala alkaloids exhibit weak MAO-I activity), pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Legal in the Czech Republic – available as tea, dietary supplement, and registered medicinal product.

Comparative Table

Plant Primary Effect Intensity Addictive Potential Legal in CZ
Kratom Stimulating/analgesic Medium–high Medium Yes
Kanna Antidepressant/anxiolytic Low–medium Low Yes
Blue lotus Euphoric/relaxing Low Minimal Yes
Kava Anxiolytic/social Medium Low Yes
Salvia Dissociative/visionary Very high None Yes
Damiana Aphrodisiac/anxiolytic Low None Yes
Wild dagga Relaxing/euphoric Low None Yes
Passion flower Sedative/anxiolytic Low–medium None Yes

Safety Principles

  1. Start with low doses – the principle of "start low, go slow" applies without exception, especially with first experience with a given substance
  2. Do not combine – drug interactions between herbal preparations and prescription medications can be serious and difficult to predict
  3. Verified sources – purchase exclusively from suppliers with laboratory testing certificates for active compound content and contaminants
  4. Health contraindications – with any chronic illness or regular medication, consult your intention with a physician or pharmacist
  5. Set and setting – mental state, environment, and presence of trusted individuals substantially influence both the course and outcome of the experience
  6. Sober companion – with stronger substances (salvia, higher kratom doses), the presence of an informed and sober companion is a necessity, not a recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

No. Legislation varies significantly among member states. Kratom is banned in several EU countries; salvia divinorum in many others. Before traveling abroad, always verify the current legislation of the destination country – you bear full responsibility for compliance with local laws.

Can these plants replace medical treatment?

No. Ethnobotanical preparations may, under certain circumstances, complement conventional care, not replace it. Never arbitrarily discontinue prescribed medication without prior consultation with your treating physician.

Where to purchase quality ethnobotanical plants?

From specialized vendors who transparently publish laboratory analysis certificates (content of active compounds, heavy metals, microbiological purity). Anonymous sellers without traceable testing offer no guarantees of either quality or safety.

How does ethnobotany relate to cannabis?

Cannabis is one of the most significant and thoroughly studied ethnobotanical plants. Particularly interesting are intersections at the receptor system level: beta-caryophyllene present in cannabis terpenes is a CB2 agonist, passion flower modulates GABA-A receptors, and kratom acts on opioid receptors. The study of these plants thus expands understanding of the endocannabinoid system and neurochemistry in general and suggests how complexly various physiological systems are interconnected.

Sources

  1. Grundmann, O. (2017). Patterns of Kratom use and health impact. International Journal of Legal Medicine, 131, 1281–1289.
  2. Terburg, D. et al. (2013). Acute effects of Sceletium tortuosum. Neuropsychopharmacology, 38(13), 2708–2716.
  3. Pittler, M.H. & Ernst, E. (2003). Kava extract for treating anxiety. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CD003383.
  4. Akhondzadeh, S. et al. (2001). Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 26(5), 363–367.
  5. Ngan, A. & Conduit, R. (2011). A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata on subjective sleep quality. Phytotherapy Research, 25(8), 1153–1159.
  6. Casselman, I. et al. (2014). From local to global – fifty years of research on Salvia divinorum. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 151(2), 768–783.