Psychedelic Plants Still Major Problem in Romania

Thirty-two young people have been hospitalised in the eastern Romanian city of Iasi alone in the last two weeks after consuming psychedelic plants, but none of them face serious problems, according to local health authorities. Local media have reported a number of similar cases in cities across Romania.

"Around 40 per cent of young people have tried such substances at least once. This is a real problem authorities have to carefully address," says Doctor Tudor Ciuhodaru. "Many people are using these plants either recreationally or as part of the pursuit of spiritual experiences."

In early February, the Romanian government adopted an emergency decree banning the consumption of psychedelic plants. Some experts argue, however, that the ban on the plants has not prevented people from taking these drugs and has only made them more attractive to those who currently use them.

Psychedelic plants were previously unregulated in Romania and have been blamed for the deaths of many teenagers. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Romania are severe but drug sales and consumption nevertheless appear to be out of control in Bucharest and other large cities in the country.

Romanian police seized 1.6 tons of illegal drugs last year, 400 per cent more than in 2008. The total market value of the confiscated drugs stood at EUR 167 million.