Macromerine

Macromerine

Chemical structure of Macromerine

Macromerine is a naturally occurring phenethylamine alkaloid found in certain species of cacti. It is structurally related to other psychoactive compounds such as mescaline.

Chemical Structure

Macromerine is classified as a phenethylamine, which is a type of organic compound characterized by a phenyl ring and an amino group separated by two carbon atoms. The chemical structure of macromerine includes a methoxy group attached to the aromatic ring, which is a common feature in many psychoactive phenethylamines.

Occurrence

Macromerine is found in several species of cacti, particularly those belonging to the genus Coryphantha. These cacti are native to regions of North America, including parts of the United States and Mexico.

Pharmacology

The pharmacological effects of macromerine are not as well-studied as those of other related compounds like mescaline. However, it is believed to interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain, similar to other hallucinogenic phenethylamines. This interaction may lead to altered perception, mood, and cognition.

Uses

While macromerine itself is not widely used, the cacti that contain it have been used traditionally in some indigenous cultures for their psychoactive properties. These uses are often ceremonial or spiritual in nature.

Safety and Legal Status

The safety profile of macromerine is not well-documented, and its legal status varies by country. In many places, the cacti containing macromerine are not specifically regulated, but the extraction and use of psychoactive compounds from these plants may be subject to legal restrictions.

Related Compounds

Macromerine is related to several other phenethylamines, including:

• Mescaline
• Peyote
• San Pedro cactus

Related Pages

• Phenethylamine
• Psychoactive cacti
• Serotonin receptor