HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The psychoactive hallucinogenic plants Salvia Divinorum and Spice, although sold commercially, are prohibited for use by Air Force Special Operations Command military members, according to a new major command policy letter.

According to AFSOC, the Air Force first became aware of the potential use and abuse of Salvia and Spice by military members about four years ago.

The Air Force Office of Special Investigations recently brought the use of Salvia and Spice to the AFSOC commander, Lt. Gen. Donald C. Wurster's attention.

"AFOSI in coordination and cooperation with local law enforcement officials determined that Salvia and Spice abuse in the civilian and military communities was an increasing concern and a threat to military readiness," said AFSOC officials.

General Wurster prohibited use of the substances for permanent party, Airmen in training and TDY personnel effective immediately.

Salvia Divinorum, also known as "Sally D" and "Magic Mint," is commonly used by smoking and or chewing, producing a perception of bright lights, vivid colors and shapes and distorts objects. The plant affects the central nervous system, which causes altered brain functions that produce the mentioned hallucinogenic effects.

Spice, including Golden Spice, is a mixture of herbs with hallucinogenic effects. The quantity and toxicity of the herbs varies in each product, making some more potent than others. It is typically consumed by smoking, creating a euphoric feeling similar to cannabis.

In the general's letter, he said "The abuse of these products by military members contradicts the nature of the profession of arms, threatens our military readiness and diminishes our ability to conduct the mission entrusted to us. It is my express intent to prevent any drug from affecting the operational readiness or cognitive function of any member of this command."

Those who choose to consume the products are subject to disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The Armed Forces Institute of Pathology currently tests for Salvia in blood and urine. AFIP is also in the process of developing a urine/blood test for Spice.

The general said the improper use of Spice, household chemicals, chemical inhalants and other over-the-counter medications "are all fundamentally incompatible with Air Force uniformed military service in AFSOC."

"This form of substance abuse has the potential to endanger the life of the individual abuser, as well as the lives of other military members," he said. "Do yourself and those around you a favor. Do not abuse these substances. You are too important to the Air Force."

Click HERE for the policy letter.