Kyrgyz lawmakers debated the concerning trend of teenagers licking psychedelic toads to get high, potentially leading to health issues. Proposed amendments aim to ban the import of certain amphibians that secrete psychoactive toxins. MPs discussed the implications and necessity of such legislation, prioritizing public health and safety.
This week, lawmakers in Kyrgyzstan expressed their concerns during a parliamentary debate regarding the troubling trend of teenagers licking the backs of “psychedelic toads” for recreational purposes. As a part of discussions aimed at amending a law combating narcotics trafficking, MPs considered measures such as banning the import of specific frogs and toads known to secrete psychedelic toxins that can induce hallucinations and severe illness.
During the session, MP Iskhak Masaliyev voiced his dissatisfaction with the phrasing of the proposed amendments, questioning their implications. He humorously stated, “It turns out that now our young people are forbidden to kiss frogs! I’m not against this initiative, but it should have been analyzed in more detail when drafting.” His comments highlighted the complexities of addressing such a unique issue.
Meder Aliyev, who sponsored the bill aimed at curbing drug trafficking, acknowledged that while laws concerning “toads” may seem eccentric, they are indeed warranted. He referenced various global locations, including a U.S. state where a similar warning has been issued about kissing frogs that contain psychoactive substances.
In response to queries about the terminology in the bill, Deputy Health Minister Kaarmanbek Baidavletov clarified that one of the aims of the amendments was to prohibit the importation of certain amphibians that possess narcotic effects due to their skin and venom. Notably, the Bufo alvarius toad, known for secreting the psychoactive compound 5-MeO-DMT, was specifically mentioned as a concern.
This powerful alkaloid belongs to a class of tryptamines and can induce intense hallucinations and sensations of euphoria when inhaled. Though it has ritualistic applications in certain South American cultures, its recreational use poses serious health risks, drawing the attention of Kyrgyz lawmakers.
In recent times, discussions surrounding the ingestion of various animal secretions for psychoactive effects have gained traction. Krygyzstan’s lawmakers are particularly concerned by the trend among teenagers who reportedly lick the backs of toads like Bufo alvarius to experience hallucinations fueled by the toxins produced by these amphibians. Concurrently, legislative efforts are underway globally to regulate the consumption and trade of such animals, especially given the alarming health implications associated with their use.
In conclusion, the debates within the Kyrgyz parliament reflect a growing recognition of the dangers posed by the recreational use of psychedelic toads. The proposed amendments aim to safeguard public health by limiting access to amphibians that can induce harmful psychoactive effects. As lawmakers navigate this complex issue, it is evident that a balanced approach is necessary to address both public safety and ecological considerations.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
