EXPLORATION OF HALLUCINOGENIC COMPOUNDS IN PEGANUM HARMALA, A POPULAR INCENSE IN FOLK CULTURE, COUPLED WITH ANATOMICAL ANALYSIS

The incense made from the seeds and fruits of Peganum harmala contains harmine, a compound with hallucinogenic properties that affects the central nervous system and can alter perception, cognition, and emotions. Chemical analysis of the smoke dissolved in dichloromethane and n-hexane solvents identified harmine via GC-MS. Anatomical examination of the plant's pedicels, petals, sepals, stamens, and pistils revealed glandular trichomes on the pedicel and sepal.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Objective: Peganum harmala L., commonly known as "harmala," is extensively used as an herbal incense product today and is renowned for its reported calming effects on humans. This study aims to perform a structural characterization of incense, with a particular focus on its fruit and seed components, by analyzing both the combustion process and dissolving the resulting smoke in an appropriate solvent. Additionally, we aim to contribute to the literature by investigating the presence of hallucinogenic compounds in this incense. Simultaneously, anatomical features of pedicels, petals, sepals, stamens, and pistils of P. harmala were examined through manual sectioning. Material and Method: Smoke from incense was dissolved using n-hexane and dichloromethane solvents. Chemical analysis of seeds and fruits was conducted using GC-MS at the Erzurum Regional Criminal Police Laboratory Directorate. Anatomical characterization involved manual sectioning of pedicels, petals, sepals, and pistils, followed by examination under a microscope. Result and Discussion: Upon analysis of samples extracted from dichloromethane and n-hexane solvents, the presence of harmine-a compound exhibiting hallucinogenic properties-has been identified. Harmine is known to impact human perception, cognition, and emotions by influencing central nervous system. The anatomical analysis revealed the presence of glandular trichomes on the pedicel, and sepal. Chemical compounds in smoke of P. harmala seeds and fruits, including hallucinogenic compound harmine, were identified through GC-MS analysis.