Mexican calea (Calea zacatechichi Schltdl.) interferes with cholinergic and dopaminergic pathways and causes neuroglial toxicity.
Journal of ethnopharmacology January 30, 2025 Maria Rita Garcia, Federico Ferreres, Tiago Mineiro et al. 3 citations
An aqueous extract of the aerial parts of Calea zacatechichi, a plant traditionally used for its dream-inducing effects, interferes with the cholinergic and dopaminergic systems by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase, but does not affect monoamine oxidase A. The extract also shows notable cytotoxicity in neuronal and microglial cells at low concentrations, with evidence of apoptosis and necroptosis, though it scavenges free radicals and inhibits lipid peroxidation. Twenty-eight phenolic constituents were identified, 24 previously unreported in this species. The findings highlight the need for a regulatory framework for recreational use and help clarify the plant's psychopharmacological mechanisms.