Certain drugs can be used legally for medical, recreational, religious, shamanic, and spiritual purposes. However, what comes to mind generally when we use the term legal drugs are prescription medications-antibiotics, pain relievers, analgesics, anti-depressants, stimulants, etc.  Don’t be fooled, many of these prescription drugs have side effects, and some serious-some even cause death.  Prescription meds need to be monitored, and they too, can be abused so caution is advised.

However, what also comes to mind for many individuals are all natural, 100% legal alternative supplements that give you the same or similar feelings of some illegal drugs, such as ecstasy and speed.  These legal substitutes are extremely popular, but come without the serious side effects and risks of illicit drugs.  Not to mention the legal hassle that may pursue otherwise.  These particular alternatives are primarily used as recreational drugs, but have other uses too.

Some herbal supplements have become increasingly popular through the years, as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs, primarily because individuals are looking for more natural ways to treat ailments and to improve their over-all health and well-being.

Alternative Legal Supplements

Herbal Ecstasy is one such alternative drug, which is very popular among ‘ravers’, at dance events, clubs, concerts and festivals.  It contain various herbs or herb extracts  that claim to produce the same effects of hallucinogens and/or stimulants similar to the effects of the real thing-Ecstasy, but obviously is a natural and safe supplement.

Another popular choice is Kratom, which is an extremely powerful herb and considered one of the most effective and pleasurable psychoactive herb available. This substance has long lasting effects, so get ready to party!  It is said by some individuals that its effects may last for hours, some even reported as much as eight hours.  It is said that this substance besides producing euphoria, it is well documented to reduce anxiety, depression and pain.

Kava, which is primarily a social party drug, is another alternative.  It can produce mild euphoria and tranquility as well as reduce anxiety, depression, and muscle pain.

A great benefit of this supplement is that Kava shows great promise for people suffering with social phobias.   Also, if taken in larger doses it may be beneficial for individuals with sleep disturbances, in particular insomnia, but without the addictive proponents. Now that is something to look into and given great consideration.  Everyone knows the importance of a good night’s sleep and the correlation it has to procuring optimal health.

Another alternative is Betel Nut, which is a mild stimulant, which may reduce appetite, and produces an over-all feeling of well being.   If you are looking for a more euphoric high, you can use this supplement with other drugs such as, mushrooms.

Melatonin is a very popular natural hormone which is used for a variety of sleep disturbances.  We all know the importance of a good night’s sleep.  With all the media coverage on sleep disorders and sleep deprivation and how this can contribute to serious medical problems as well as the obvious, not being able to function properly, this supplement has become increasingly in demand.  Certain studies have shown that Melatonin also is significant in memory skills as well as cognitive abilities.

5-HTP is a naturally-occurring amino acid which has varied uses including the treatment of anti-depression, and sleep disorders.  It is also used as an appetite suppressant.  This drug has been around in the European countries for the last three decades, but is just gaining popularity in the U.S.  Individuals may navigate to this drug to help in the treatment of obesity, migraine headaches, fibromyalgia and premenstrual syndrome, more commonly known as PMS

Yet another great alternative is GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, is primarily used as a relaxant and sleep aid.    It is also a great tool used in the regulation of anxiety.  For those of us who get overly excited, this helps balance the brain and keeps us in check.

Valerian is another alternative medicine and is very popular for its sedative properties.  However, valerian is widely used for its remedy for insomnia and sleep related disturbances. The benefits of this root are well documented for the use as a calming agent for individuals suffering with anxiety disorders. But, Valerian Root also has many other uses as well. If you’re interested in finding all-natural cures and remedies for some of the common ailments, check out valerian root.

Not All Drugs Are Created Equal

Although it is true that a number of people may have side effects to these alternative supplements, if taken properly the risk factor is dramatically reduced.   However, it is fair to mention that thousands of people die each year taking illicit drugs and more horrifying, did you know that the number is increased ten-fold by individuals who are taking properly prescribed drugs, not to mention the millions who suffer serious side effects. Now, this is alarming!

How about this, an article in Newsweek asserts that prescribed drugs are the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. beat out by heart disease, cancer and stroke.  And it is also noted that reactions to prescription drugs kill more than twice as many Americans as HIV/Aids or suicide.  Now these statistics are pretty scary!  And there are other case studies very similar to this, but I think you got the message-lout and clearly!

However, how is it that we don’t hear much about these horrendous facts?

What about alcohol and nicotine!  These are the most widely abused legal drugs on the market.  We all know the serious health risks associated with smoking and drinking.  Did you ever try to quit smoking-or if a hardcore drinker, have you ever tried to stop drinking?  Well millions of Americans have battled their biggest fight against these addictive drugs and the lucky ones won.  Unfortunately, that is just a small portion.

It’s no wonder that herbal supplements are becoming more and more popular than ever before and individuals are turning to natural remedies rather than pharmaceutical drugs.  Much of the research that has been done on the therapeutic benefits of various herbs and herbal extracts, has been very positive and suggest that taking herbal supplements together with a healthy diet and lifestyle can be extremely beneficial.

However beneficial these supplements may be, individuals should know that they are very potent and should not be abused. Just because something is legal and natural, doesn’t exempt you from following directions and using precaution.   Also, these supplements are not intended to be sold to minors (anyone under 18 years of age). And, individuals should not operate a vehicle or machinery when first taking these supplements.  As with any medication, do not take these supplements if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Having said this, be cautious and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of these various herbs and herbal extracts and know that they are a great natural alternative and 100% legal!