Alkaloids of the Cactaceae — The Classics

Summary

Cactaceae alkaloids have been researched for over 120 years, leading to the isolation of many similar compounds. While mescaline has been extensively studied due to its significant effects, other phenethylamines like hordenine received less attention. The less-studied 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids may have unexplored activities that warrant further investigation, particularly regarding their interactions with mescaline in natural sources like dried cacti and beverages.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Alkaloids of the Cactaceae have been studied for the last 120 years. The first half of that period provided the “classic” compounds, after which a large number of usually very similar analogs were isolated or determined with modern methods. Although some unusual synthetic approaches have been developed, their preparation is generally quite straightforward. Their biosynthesis has been studied but, particularly in the case of the isoquinoline compounds, important aspects have not been addressed. Due to its striking effects, the pharmacology of mescaline has been studied more intensely than that of the other phenethylamines present in cacti, followed only by hordenine. The many 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids have attracted much less interest and have often been considered practically inactive. Nevertheless, some recorded activities of this group of compounds suggests a need for additional studies, especially in connection with their co-administration with mescaline, as in dried cacti and in beverages prepared from them.