Nutmeg as a Narcotic. A Contribution to the Chemistry and Pharmacology of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Angewandte Chemie International Edition in English June 1, 1971 DOI: 10.1002/anie.197103701 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractNutmeg's use as a narcotic has prompted new chemical and pharmacological research. Several allylbenzene compounds found in nutmeg produce biological transformation products structurally similar to mescaline and amphetamine, and these are identified as the psychotropic agents. The hallucinogenic potency of these compounds may arise because their structures can simulate elements of LSD.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Mescaline |
| Keywords | Nutmeg Myristica fragrans Chemistry Narcotic |
| Citations | 37 |
| Key finding | Allylbenzene derivatives in nutmeg, whose metabolites resemble mescaline and amphetamine, are the psychotropic constituents, and their hallucinogenic intensity may be due to simulating LSD-like structural elements. |
Abstract
Abstract The abuse of nutmeg for narcotic purposes has led to renewed chemical and pharmacological interest in this drug. Several allylbenzene derivatives whose biological transformation products have structures resembling mescaline and amphetamine have been identified as psychotropic constituents. It is suggested that the intensity of the hallucinogenic action of these compounds is due to the possibility of simulation of LSD‐like structural elements.