DALLAS — Texas teens have found a new way to get high using a drug that's not only legal — it's actually pretty easy to come by.

Some refer to salvia as the next marijuana.

Dallas police say by no means is salvia widespread in North Texas, but they are well aware that young people who want access to it can easily find it at "head shops" or on the Internet.

For now, salvia is perfectly legal in Texas. The herb-based, powder-like hallucinogenic as often advertised as a "herbal meditation supplement." The going price can be as little as $12.95 for a packet, or about $30 an ounce.

Many teens are already sold on the idea. Just check out YouTube, where dozens of young people have posted clips of themselves getting high on the drug.

They describe in detail trips that last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, complete with out-of-body experiences and hysterical laughter. Some in the salvia videos are seen stumbling and falling.

Dallas police spokesman Sgt. Gil Cerda says there is no sign of widespread use, unlike the recent epidemic of "cheese" heroin.

"Obviously cheese has caused some deaths here locally, where this has not," Sgt. Cerda said.

While police say salvia has stayed out of local schools, parents are urged to remain vigilant.

Waco and Houston are considering ordinances to ban the drug. Salvia is currently illegal in Oklahoma and Louisiana.

E-mail cvega@wfaa.com