Harmaline

From Food & Medicine Encyclopedia

Harmaline is a naturally occurring indole alkaloid of the beta-carboline family. It is found in a number of different plants, most notably the Syrian rue and Banisteriopsis caapi. Harmaline is a central nervous system stimulant and a "reversible inhibitor of MAO-A (RIMA)".

Chemistry[edit]

Harmaline is a fluorescent compound, with a quantum yield of 0.58 in ethanol and 0.54 in water. It has been used as a staining substance in fluorescence microscopy.

Pharmacology[edit]

Harmaline is known to act as a nonselective MAO-A inhibitor, a potassium channel blocker, and a serotonin-norepinephrine-dopamine releasing agent (SNDRA). It also stimulates acetylcholine release in rats.

Effects[edit]

Harmaline may be used for its psychoactive effects. These effects are characterized by a state of intoxication and are accompanied by hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, and tremors.

Toxicity[edit]

Harmaline is toxic and potentially lethal in high doses. It is also a potent emetic, and can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

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