The use of bath salts for therapeutic purposes dates back to the year 2700 BC. Hippocrates believes greatly in the power of salt water to heal the various diseases existing in that period of time. Nowadays, this term refers to different types of inorganic solid products usually added to a bath tub to enhance the bathing experience and to relax and exfoliate the body. However, a different type of product is entering the consumer market.
What is the chemical in new Bath salts?
You've probably seen the new generation salt in your local head shop or in your local pharmacy or drug store. Usually sold as the brands "Posh", "Love", "Cloud 9" etc, these substances, which appear as brightly coloured crystals contain a stimulant known as Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) and other chemicals such as mephedrone, lidocaine and Methylone. MDPV was found to be a powerful stimulant and lidocaine is a numbing agent.
What are its effects?
Most manufacturers advertise bath salts for external use only. Some have observed that when the salt is snorted or taken orally, it can produce feelings of increased energy, mental stimulation, and some euphoria, similar to the drug amphetamine. However, as people come down from their high, the side effects can include agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, chest pain, and suicide risks. Some substance abusers even end up in intensive care or end up doing things that normal people would not usually do. And not to mention, the new generation drug can easily be detected in a drug test.
What are governments doing about them?
The chemicals have been banned in many countries around the world such as the United Kingdom and Australia. Currently in the US, the stimulants in these products are not being regulated nationally but these products have certainly been banned in certain states like Florida and Ohio. However, little packets are still readily available over the counter of any drug store for about $25-$40. Even in banned states, the products can still be acquired through word of mouth or through the Internet.
Conclusion
Should we just ban bath salts? This is quite a good question which unfortunately does not have an answer. Although the media often highlight the negative effects of this new drug, it is only due to misuse that the salts have gotten such a bad rap. Alcohol and smoking also kills millions every year but are still legal substances. It is thus up to the individual to decide how he would use this new chemical.
Source: Marco, Renjer "Bath Salts - Designer Drug or Relaxing Therapeutic Experience?." Bath Salts - Designer Drug or Relaxing Therapeutic Experience?. 30 Jun. 2011EzineArticles.com. 8 Nov. 2011.http://EzineArticles.com/6391603
