Fungal Hallucinogens: Chemistry, Synthesis, Behavior, Toxicity and Detection Methods in Forensic Perspective

Authors

  • Merlin Kirubakarababu
  • Arputharaj Samson Nesaraj

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37506/ijfmt.v16i4.18608

Keywords:

Psilocin, Psilocybin, Serotonin, 5 HT 2A receptors, agonist, detection limits

Abstract

Certain species of the mushrooms contain the Indole Alkaloids such as Psilocybin and Psilocin which exhibit
the psychedelic property. These types of mushrooms can be identified by their unique property known as the
blue bruising. These alkaloid compounds may cause the hallucinations and other symptoms. The psilocybin and
Psilocin are synthesized from the amino acid Tryptophan and resemble the structure of the hormone Serotonin.
They also act as an agonist for the 5-HT2A receptors. Intoxication of these compounds can lead to excitation of the
nerves which can eventually cause the hallucination, tachycardia, dilated pupils and dysuria in certain cases which
may lead to adverse effects. The metabolic product of the Psilocin is psilocin-o-glucuronide which is excreted
in the urine within 6-8 hours of ingestion. Psilocybin and psilocin can be analyzed by preliminary color tests
with Ehrlich reagent, Marquis reagentand Mandelin’s reagent. In this review, brief reports are presented about
the chromatographic analysis of these compounds. This articlealso discusses the overview of the psychoactive
alkaloids present in certain species of mushrooms

Author Biographies

  • Merlin Kirubakarababu

    1Ph.D. Scholar in Forensic Science,  Department of Applied Chemistry, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences (Deemed to be University), Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore – 641 114, Tamil Nadu, India,

  • Arputharaj Samson Nesaraj

    Professor and Head, Department of Applied Chemistry,Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences (Deemed to be University), Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore – 641 114, Tamil Nadu, India, Professor, Department of Chemistry, School of Advanced Sciences, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (Deemed to be University), Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil – 626 126, Tamil Nadu, India

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Published

2022-10-10

How to Cite

Fungal Hallucinogens: Chemistry, Synthesis, Behavior, Toxicity and Detection Methods in Forensic Perspective. (2022). Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, 16(4), 320-327. https://doi.org/10.37506/ijfmt.v16i4.18608