Overpowered wrote:I -My questions are -
Does anyone else in Europe have successfully bought mimosa hostilis root bark and if yes from where?
Actually it's not necessary to purchase mimosa overseas. If you are in the EU, there are several suppliers that provide it from within Europe and that means no customs. Just do a google search for mimosa hostilis UK, for instance, and you will find options. It's true that plants purchased in America can be quite cheaper, but there's people who appreciates bypassing customs control for small amounts, to avoid taxes, etc.
Also, I think that from now on is probably a good idea to buy shredded, not powdered, root bark. Powdered mimosa is a preparation of the plant, and if by some chance (god forbid) any buyer has to deal with customs agents, a plant preparation would be more frowned upon.
Not that I want to make you paranoid - but some day buyers might start to find nasty suprises, and better safe than sorry.
Overpowered wrote:What amount should I get - I was thinking about getting about 250g - 500g (1/2 to 1lbs) for first time experimenting but am in doubt if it will be enough if I screw up in the extraction process.
I'd go with 100 g for a first extraction. Measures are easy, amounts are manageable. Enough to have satisfying results, not too much to waste if things don't work out for some reason.
Overpowered wrote:2. I can easily get my hands on H2SO4 or NaOH - or any other acids, bases, but the specific brands like VM&P naphtha - is something i think doesn't exist in stores, so what are my alternatives for this ( I know that in AU Shellite is used)
Ideally, IMO, hexane or heptane. See if you have a chemical supplies store in your city. If not, some report having used zippo lighter fluid (I have not), but in any case, just make an evaporation test to make sure it leaves no solid residues behind.
"The Menu is Not The Meal." - Alan Watts