Hawaiian Baby Woodrose

What is Hawaiian Baby Woodrose?

Hawaiian Baby Woodrose (HBW) is one of the popular names for the India-native plant Argyreia nervosa; or more specifically its seeds, which can induce a psychedelic experience in those who consume them by chewing them, placing them under the tongue, or in tea form. The experience reportedly often lasts 4-8 hours.

Other popular names for the substance include “elephant creeper” and “woolly morning glory”.

One of the psychoactive substances HBW contains is lysergic acid amide (LSA), which comes from the same family as LSD. As a result, HBW is often compared to LSD, though it contains other ergot alkaloids which may also play a part in the experience HBW induces.

Is HBW Legal in Canada?

Sort of. Simple personal possession is legal, but unauthorized sale is illegal under the Food and Drugs Act. Unauthorized import and export are criminally prohibited under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

HBW has long been generally regarded in Canada as a ‘grey market’ substance, which is understandable. It kind of is.

Simple possession is not prohibited, but since HBW reportedly contains ergometrine, a Schedule VI substance under the CDSA, import and export of the substance to and from Canada without authorization are criminalized under s. 6 of the law.

The fact that HBW is a natural plant (or plant seed) that happens to contain a scheduled substance will not exempt it from the CDSA’s purview (see psilocybin).

Medical or Therapeutic Use?

Little reputable data exists as to the medical or therapeutic benefits HBW might offer, though anecdotal reports suggest it may have aphrodisiac qualities or provide some with pain relief.

The potential toxicity of HBW appears to be much better documented and various sources regard the substance as generally unsafe.