Microchemical Journal
April 5, 2012
Alain Gaujac, Sabrina Teixeira Martinez, Arão Araújo Gomes et al.
34 citations
A simple and fast method was developed to extract N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) from the inner bark of Mimosa tenuiflora, producing a high-purity (>95%) analytical standard for chromatography. The extracted DMT was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and melting point measurements, all of which matched previous literature. This method addresses the difficulty of acquiring DMT, a banned substance in most countries, for use as a reference standard in analytical chemistry. In Brazil, DMT is a controlled drug, though the DMT-rich beverage ayahuasca is legally consumed in religious contexts.
Microchemical Journal
February 28, 2023
María Mata-Pesquera, David Fabregat‐safont, Cristina Gil et al.
10 citations
A recently detected synthetic cathinone, N-cyclohexyl butylone, was characterized using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The compound's elemental composition and molecular structure were determined from accurate-mass ions and two-dimensional NMR experiments. In silico predictions suggest that N-cyclohexyl butylone likely produces stimulant effects similar to MDMA. This work provides a complete analytical profile for a new psychoactive substance that has appeared in European drug markets.
Microchemical Journal
November 29, 2024
Nadia Arbouche, Jean-Sébastien Raul, Pascal Kintz
1 citation
Ayahuasca, a traditional medicine known for its psychedelic properties, shows promise in treating brain disorders. In a sample of 200 participants, 75% reported significant improvements in mental health after consumption. Using chromatography and mass spectrometry, metabolomics revealed that tryptophan levels increased post-consumption, suggesting enhanced serotonin production. This intertwines sociology with aesthetics, as the experience often involves art and communal rituals. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics in modern medicine while bridging cultural practices with scientific inquiry.