Extraction of N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) from Mimosa tenuiflora, syn. Mimosa hostilis (Tepescohuite) using supercritical CO 2 and study of its surface activity
Natural Product Research – December 06, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a promising therapeutic compound, was successfully extracted from *Mimosa tenuiflora* using supercritical carbon dioxide at temperatures between 314-328 K and pressures of 8-22 MPa. With a CO<sub>2</sub> flow rate of 40-50 mL·min<sup>-1</sup> over 90 minutes, the process yielded bioactive compounds with potential applications in neuropsychiatric treatments and antiseptic formulations. Surface tension measurements revealed the extract's interfacial behavior, highlighting its viability as a sustainable source for pharmaceuticals and biotechnological innovations.
Abstract
This study presents the extraction and characterisation of bioactive compounds from Mimosa tenuiflora (syn. Mimosa hostilis), known as Tepescohuite, using supercritical CO2. Extractions were performed at 314-328 K and 8-22 MPa for 90 min, with CO2 flow rates of 40-50 mL·min-1. The extracts were analysed by HPLC-MS, NMR, UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy. The major compound identified was N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), an indole alkaloid with therapeutic potential in neuropsychiatric treatments, antiseptic formulations and wound healing. The interfacial behaviour of the extract was studied by surface tension measurements of aqueous solutions at 308.15 K using the drop volume method, and its foaming properties were evaluated by the Ross-Miles method at 298.15 K. The findings demonstrate the potential of M. tenuiflora as a sustainable source of bioactive and surface-active compounds for pharmaceutical and biotechnological applications.