Psychotria viridis
Psychotria viridis
Psychotria viridis, commonly known as chacruna, is a plant native to South America. While its traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented in historical records, it has been associated with shamanic practices and rituals among indigenous communities. Scientific evidence suggests potential therapeutic benefits of compounds found in Psychotria viridis, including DMT (dimethyltryptamine) and 5-MeO-DMT, for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder; however, more clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. The plant's complete mitochondrial genome has been sequenced, revealing close evolutionary relationships with other Psychotria species. A study optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions for bioactive compounds from the leaves of Psychotria viridis, achieving high phenolic content and antioxidant activity. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded to date.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Current evidence suggests potential therapeutic benefits of DMT and 5-MeO-DMT for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, though more clinical trials are needed.
- The complete mitochondrial genome of Ophiorrhiza guizhouensis was sequenced and found to share close evolutionary relationships with Psychotria species.
- The blood sample of the patient contained DMT, harmaline, harmine, harmol, bufotenine, tetrahydro harmine, 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, amphetamine, and norcocaine.
- The study optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions for Psychotria viridis (chacruna) leaves, achieving high total phenolic content and antioxidant activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Psychotria viridis?
Psychotria viridis (Psychotria viridis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Psychotria viridis?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Psychotria viridis; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Current evidence suggests potential therapeutic benefits of DMT and 5-MeO-DMT for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder, though more clinical trials are needed.
How strong is the evidence for Psychotria viridis?
The strongest finding for Psychotria viridis carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Psychotria viridis safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Psychotria viridis in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Psychotria viridis interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Psychotria viridis in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Psychotria viridis?
Psychotria viridis is also known as: Психотрия зелёная.
Is Psychotria viridis a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Intoxication Associated with Ayahuasca Consumption, Characterization, and Comparative Analysis of the Beverage's Components: A Case Report. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Multi-Response Modeling for Bio-Compound Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) from Matico (Piper aduncum L.) and Chacruna (Psychotria viridis Ruiz & Pav.) Leaves Originating in the Peruvian Amazon. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The complete mitochondrial genome of Ophiorrhiza guizhouensis (Gentianales: Rubiaceae), a traditional medicinal plant. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ayahuasca and Its Main Component N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) for the Treatment of Mental Disorders: Mechanisms of Action, Clinical Studies, and Tools to Explore the Human Mind. literature abstract metadata