Alkaloids of the Cactaceae — The Classics

Cactus alkaloids have been studied for 120 years. Early work identified classic compounds; later research isolated many similar analogs. Synthesis is straightforward, but biosynthesis, especially of isoquinoline alkaloids, remains poorly understood. Mescaline's pharmacology has been studied extensively due to its striking effects, while hordenine and tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids have received less attention and are often considered inactive. However, some recorded activities of tetrahydroisoquinolines suggest a need for further study, particularly regarding their co-administration with mescaline in dried cacti and cactus 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.