Compound Monograph
Mesembranol
Mesembranol is a mesembrine-type alkaloid found in kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) and related plants.
Classification
Mesembranol is a mesembrine alkaloid, part of the alkaloids class. Nitrogen-containing, often bitter and physiologically potent compounds — the group behind many of the strongest plant medicines and poisons.
Where Does It Come From? (3)
Mesembranol is a naturally occurring mesembrine alkaloid, found in Kanna, Ice plants and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Mesembranol is one of the mesembrine-type alkaloids found in kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) and related succulents of the ice plant family. These alkaloids, of which mesembrine is the best known, are thought to underlie the traditional mood-lifting and calming use of kanna. Mesembranol itself is a minor member of the group and has been little studied on its own.
Toxicity & Safety
The mesembrine alkaloids of kanna are generally regarded as well tolerated at traditional doses, though they have been associated with serotonin-related activity, so caution is advised when combining kanna with serotonergic medicines. Mesembranol specifically has not been characterised in isolation.