LSA: Everything you need to know

Max Sargent

Cannabis Journalist & Psychedelics Expert

Max Sargent

Last updated: 11 June 2025

Lysergic acid amide (LSA) is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in several plants. Although it is less well-known than LSD, LSA has long been used in certain cultures and traditions.

Its unique effects and traditional significance offer an intriguing alternative to better-known psychedelics. In this article, we will explore the history, effects, safety, and legal status of LSA to help you better understand this fascinating compound.

What is LSA (lysergic acid amide)?

Structurally similar to LSD, LSA belongs to a family of compounds known as ergolines, which interact with the body, influencing mood, perception, and cognition.

Several plants naturally contain LSA, most notably:

• Morning glory (Ipomoea tricolor)
• Hawaiian baby woodrose (Argyreia nervosa)
• Rivea corymbosa (also known as Ololiuqui)

These plants have been used not only for their psychoactive properties but also in traditional indigenous practices. When consumed, LSA binds primarily to 5-HT2A receptors in the brain, similar to other classic psychedelics. This results in changes in perception, thought patterns, and emotional states.

History and traditional use of LSA

LSA-containing seeds have a rich history of traditional use among indigenous peoples of Central and South America. The Aztecs and Zapotecs used Rivea corymbosa seeds in religious and spiritual ceremonies, referring to them as "Ololiuqui", meaning "round thing" in the Nahuatl language.

The seeds were often ground into a powder and consumed in rituals to induce visionary states, gain divine insight, address communal concerns, or guide healing practices. Spanish missionaries documented the ceremonial use of these seeds in the 16th century, often describing profound visionary experiences and noting their widespread use among different indigenous groups.

Early Western research into LSA's effects began in the 20th century when scientists isolated the active compounds and studied their potential applications in psychiatry and psychopharmacology. Researchers such as Albert Hofmann, who discovered LSD, studied LSA's effects and noted its similarities and differences to other psychedelics.

How LSA works: Mechanism of action

As briefly mentioned, LSA primarily acts as a partial agonist at serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors, much like LSD and psilocybin. This interaction alters normal serotonin transmission, leading to hallucinations, shifts in thought patterns, and altered sensory perception. Serotonin is crucial in regulating mood, cognition, and perception, so by influencing this system, LSA can create profound changes in consciousness.

Effects and side effects of LSA

Using LSA can result in a wide range of effects, both positive and negative. Experiences vary depending on the individual, the dose, and the setting. Of course, preparation, mindset, and environment significantly influence the overall outcome of the experience as well.

Potential benefits

The effects of LSA are often described as dreamlike and introspective. Some reported benefits include:

• Enhanced appreciation for music, nature, and art
• Profound personal and spiritual insights
• Altered perception of time and space
• Euphoria and emotional release
• Deep emotional catharsis and self-understanding
• Potential to break free from entrenched thought patterns

Unlike LSD, LSA trips are usually heavier and less energetic, making the experience feel gentler and more grounding.

Many users report that LSA experiences are less visual and more focused on emotions and internal dialogue.

While visual hallucinations can occur, they tend to be less colourful and elaborate compared to LSD visuals. Instead, subtle distortions of space and objects, along with a dreamy, almost mythical atmosphere, are more common.

Potential risks and side effects

Despite its potential benefits, LSA is not without risks. Common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting, especially when seeds are ingested
• Muscle cramps and physical discomfort
• Confusion and anxiety
• Vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), leading to numbness or tingling in the extremities
• Difficulty moving or heavy bodily sensations
• Headaches and digestive upset

In some cases, LSA can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or psychosis. Careful consideration and preparation are essential to reduce the likelihood of negative experiences.

Users sometimes report feeling "stuck" or unable to move during the peak of the trip, which can be disorienting and frightening without proper mental preparation. Having a sober sitter present can be helpful in ensuring safety.

Dosage guide

Dosing LSA is tricky as seed potency can vary widely. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Light dose: 3–5 Hawaiian baby woodrose seeds or 50–100 morning glory seeds
• Moderate dose: 5–8 Hawaiian baby woodrose seeds or 100–200 morning glory seeds
• Heavy dose: 8–12+ Hawaiian baby woodrose seeds or 200–400 morning glory seeds

It is recommended to start with a low dose and work up gradually over time to understand your personal sensitivity. Some members of the community find that extracting LSA, rather than eating the seeds directly, can reduce nausea.

Different preparation methods can significantly impact the experience. Some users perform a cold water extraction to isolate the psychoactive compounds while leaving behind many of the nauseating plant materials. This method involves soaking crushed seeds in cold water for several hours then drinking the resulting liquid.

LSA vs LSD: Key differences

Despite the structural similarities between LSA and LSD, the two substances produce different subjective effects. LSA tends to cause more introspective, soporific outcomes with a pronounced physical heaviness, compared to the energetic and vivid nature of an LSD trip.

Many LSA users report a stronger sense of connection to internal thoughts and emotions, making it more suitable for self-reflection rather than active social engagement. LSA's vasoconstrictive properties also distinguish it from LSD—sometimes leading to uncomfortable physical sensations such as muscle tightness or cold extremities. Potential users should keep this in mind before ingesting LSA.

Here’s how the two psychedelic plant compounds differ:

• Chemical structure: LSA and LSD are both ergoline alkaloids but differ slightly in their molecular structure, contributing to their unique effects.
• Effects: LSD tends to produce vivid, colourful visuals, energy, and euphoria, whereas LSA is more soporific, emotional, and internal.
• Potency and duration: LSD is far more potent, with active doses starting around 100 micrograms. In order to trip on LSA, you’d need to consume several seeds, and the experience is still likely to be much milder. LSD trips last 8–12 hours, while LSA trips typically last 6–10 hours—though this can vary based on dosage and individual sensitivity.
• Safety: Both compounds have low toxicity, but LSA's vasoconstrictive effects and pronounced physical reactions may pose more discomfort.

Many misconceptions exist, including the belief that eating any amount of LSA seeds will produce a “clean”, LSD-like experience. In reality, LSA may result in a foggier, sleepier mental state that makes complex thinking and social interaction more difficult.

Legal status of LSA

The legal status of LSA is complex and varies by country. In many places, seeds containing LSA (such as morning glory and Hawaiian baby woodrose) are legal to purchase and possess. However, extracting LSA or consuming it for its psychoactive effects can be illegal.

Here’s the legal status of LSA in several areas around the globe:

• United States: Seeds are legal, but extraction or preparation for human consumption may be prosecuted.
• United Kingdom: Seeds are generally legal to own, but preparing or consuming them for their psychoactive effects could fall under the Psychoactive Substances Act.
• Australia: Morning glory and Hawaiian baby woodrose are controlled in some states.
• Europe: Varies by country. In some places, seed sales are legal provided there’s no explicit mention of their psychoactive use.

Some online shops label seeds as "not for human consumption" to comply with regulations, even if buyers are aware of their potential uses.

It is essential to remain aware of the laws surrounding both the possession and use of psychoactive substances in your region, as legal consequences can be severe even for plant-based compounds.

LSA: Is it worth the experience?

LSA offers a complex and often unpredictable psychedelic experience. While some people value its introspective qualities and natural origins, others find the physical side effects too unpleasant.

If you are considering trying LSA, it is important to:

• Start with a low dose
• Be aware of the potential for nausea and physical discomfort
• Choose a safe and comfortable setting
• Have a trusted, sober friend nearby if possible
• Research the legal risks in your area

For those seeking deep introspection, a connection to ancient traditions, or who want to experiment with a novel psychedelic, LSA can offer an interesting trip. However, for those hoping for a recreational, energetic high similar to LSD, LSA may not meet expectations. Responsible use, preparation, and a clear understanding of what to expect can greatly influence the overall experience.