DMT

DMT, or dimethyltryptamine, is a powerful hallucinogenic substance found naturally in certain plants and animals. It belongs to a class of molecules known as tryptamines and is structurally similar to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation.

Key points about DMT include:

Natural Occurrence: DMT is found in various plants, such as those used in traditional South American shamanic practices. One of the most well-known natural sources is the leaves of the Psychotria viridis shrub, which is used in conjunction with the Banisteriopsis caapi vine to make ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew.

Chemical Structure: DMT has a simple chemical structure, consisting of a tryptamine backbone with two methyl groups (CH3) and an amino group (NH2). Its molecular formula is C12H16N2.

Psychoactive Effects: When ingested, typically through smoking or vaporization, DMT induces intense psychedelic experiences. The effects are rapid onset, powerful, and often described as immersive and otherworldly. Users commonly report vivid visual hallucinations, altered perceptions of time and space, and encounters with entities or beings.

Short Duration: The effects of DMT are relatively short-lived, usually lasting around 15 to 30 minutes. Despite the brevity of the experience, users often describe it as profound and transformative.

Endogenous DMT: Some research suggests that DMT may be naturally produced in the human body, particularly in the pineal gland. However, the physiological role, if any, of endogenous DMT remains a topic of scientific investigation and debate.

Legality: The legal status of DMT varies by country and region. In many places, it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its hallucinogenic properties. However, the specific legal status can differ, and some plants containing DMT are legal, while the isolated compound may be regulated.

Traditional and Religious Use: DMT-containing plants have been used in traditional and religious ceremonies by indigenous cultures, particularly in South America. Ayahuasca, a brew containing DMT, is central to the spiritual practices of some Amazonian tribes.

Psychedelic Research: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in psychedelic research, including studies exploring the potential therapeutic effects of substances like DMT. Research is ongoing, and some studies suggest that psychedelics, including DMT, may have potential applications in treating certain mental health conditions.

Animals with DMT

  • Tree frogs belonging to the genus Phyllomedusa, notably P. bicolor: opioid peptides, including deltorphin, deltorphin I, deltorphin II, and dermorphin.

  • Hallucinogenic fish.

  • Ocean life containing DMT analogs: Smenospongia aurea: 5-Bromo-DMT. Smenospongia echina: 5,6-Dibromo-DMT.

Some fish including Sarpa salpa can cause auditory and visual hallucinations when eaten. Sarpa salpa was known as the “dream fish” in ancient Rome. BRIAN GRATWICKE/FLICKR

The Sonoran Desert toad secretes an enzyme that converts bufotenine, a compound also made by other toads, into 5-MeO-DMT, a powerful hallucinogen related to the psychedelic drug DMT. HOLGER KRISP/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS 

Plants that contain DMT: 

  • Horsfieldia superba: Contains 5-MeO-DMT and beta-carbolines

  • Iryanthera macrophylla: Contains 5-MeO-DMT in the bark

  • Iryanthera ulei: Contains 5-MeO-DMT in the bark

  • Osteophloem platyspermum: Contains DMT and 5-MeO-DMT in the bark

  • Virola calophylla: Contains 0.149% DMT in the leaves and 5-MeO-DMT in the bark

  • Virola calophylloidea: Contains DMT

  • Psychotria viridis: Contains N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, which is the primary psychoactive alkaloid

  • Mimosa tenuiflora: Contains N,N-Dimethyltryptamine

  • Diplopterys cabrerana: Contains N,N-Dimethyltryptamine

Other plants that contain psychoactive alkaloids include: Acacia jurema, Acacia karroo, Acacia kempeana.

Golden Wattle (Acacia Pycnantha) in flower. DMT is a naturally occurring compound found in members of the Acacia species, many of which are native to Australia

The pitted sponge and some other sponges contain 5-bromo-DMT and 5,6-dibromo-DMT, compounds related to the psychedelic drug DMT. SMITHSONIAN TROPICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Mimosa tenuiflora (synonym: Mimosa hostilis) Containis DMT controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act : N,N-Dimethyltryptamine.

It's important to note that the use of DMT, like other psychedelics, carries potential risks and should be approached with caution. The legal status, cultural context, and individual circumstances vary, so individuals considering the use of DMT should be well-informed and make decisions in accordance with their local laws and personal health considerations.