K2 or “Spice” is a mixture of herbs and spices that is typically sprayed with a synthetic compound chemically similar to THC, the psychoactive ingredients in marijuana. The chemical compounds typically include HU-210, HU-211, JWH-018, and JWH-073. K2 is commonly purchased in head shops, tobacco shops, various retail outlets, and over the Internet. It is often marketed as incense or “fake weed.” Purchasing over the Internet can be dangerous because it is not usually known where the products come from or what amount of chemical is on the organic material.
What is its origin?
Manufacturers of this product are not regulated and are often unknown since these products are purchased via the Internet whether wholesale or retail. Several websites that sell the product are based in China. Some products may contain an herb called damiana, which is native to Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
What are common street names?
Bilss, Black Mamba, Bombay Blue, Fake Weed, Genie, Spice, Zohai
What does it look like?
K2 is typically sold in small, silvery plastic bags of dried leaves and marketed as incense that can be smoked. It is said to resemble potpourri.
How is it abused?
K2 products are usually smoked in joints or pipes, but some users make it into a tea.
What is its effect on the mind?
Psychological effects are similar to those of marijuana and include paranoia, panic attacks, and giddiness.
What is its effect on the body?
Physiological effects of K2 include increased heart rate and increase of blood pressure. It appears to be stored in the body
for long periods of time, and therefore the long-term effects on humans are not fully known.
What are its overdose effects?
There have been no reported deaths by overdose.
Which drugs cause similar effects?
Marijuana
Provided by Drugs of Abuse resource guide
