Psychotria carthagenensis
Psychotria carthagenensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Psychotria carthagenensis is a significant tropical shrub known for its distinctive foliage and medicinal potential. The plant's leaves are the primary component utilized in traditional botanical practices. Most notably, these leaves serve as a crucial ingredient in the preparation of the sacred ayahuasca brew. This decoction relies on the specific chemical properties found within the plant's greenery to achieve its effects. Understanding this species is essential for studying the complex relationship between Amazonian flora and ritualistic preparations.
- Synonyms
- Mapouria Australis · Mapouria Pohliana · 38 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Psychotria carthagenensis is a versatile plant recognized by a wide variety of local names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as Cafeeiro-do-Mato or Carne-de-vaca, names that reflect its distinct botanical characteristics. In certain cultural contexts, it is known as Chacrona, a term often associated with its traditional significance. Other common aliases include Erva-de-rato-branca and the more fragrant-sounding Jazmín de la costa. This diversity of nomenclature highlights the deep connection between the species and the various communities that encounter it.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Psychotria carthagenensis is a botanical species characterized by a complex history of taxonomic classifications. Throughout various scientific studies, this plant has been identified under several different names, including the synonym Mapouria alba f. intermedia. It has also been referred to as Mapouria alba var. tristis and Mapouria australis in different botanical contexts. Furthermore, the species is linked to the synonyms Mapouria catharinensis and Mapouria compagniata. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Psychotria carthagenensis is a specialized member of the kingdom Plantae. This species is classified within the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the distinct order Gentianales. Within this biological framework, it is further identified as a member of the family Rubiaceae. The plant is more specifically categorized under the genus Psychotria. Through this scientific hierarchy, its unique evolutionary relationships are clearly defined.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Psychotria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Psychotria carthagenensis exhibits a diverse geographic range that spans across both North and South America. In the northern reaches of its habitat, the species is widely distributed throughout Mexico, including the Gulf, Southeast, and Southwest regions. Moving southward, the plant establishes a significant presence within the expansive borders of Brazil. Within this South American territory, it can be found specifically across the Northeast and Northern parts of the country. This broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in varied ecological zones across two continents.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Psychotria carthagenensis is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This species typically reaches a minimum height of 2 meters as it establishes itself in its environment. In many instances, the plant matures to a more substantial minimum height of 3 meters. As it continues to develop, it can eventually reach a maximum height of up to 7 meters. These varying dimensions showcase the impressive structural range this shrub can achieve.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Psychotria carthagenensis serves as one of the specific admixture plants used in the preparation of the hallucinogenic beverage known as ayahuasca. This plant is boiled together with the bark of the Banisteriopsis caapi liana to create the traditional decoction. By acting as an admixture, it contributes essential N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) to the mixture. This chemical component is vital for the psychoactive effects of the drink, provided that monoamine oxidase inhibitors from the liana are present. Consequently, the inclusion of Psychotria carthagenensis is a key factor in the chemical composition and preparation of ayahuasca.
Parts used
Psychotria carthagenensis is recognized as one of the essential admixture plants used in the traditional preparation of the hallucinogenic beverage known as ayahuasca. In this ritual concoction, the plant's leaves are specifically boiled alongside the bark of the Banisteriopsis caapi liana to create a potent brew. These leaves serve as a vital source of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful psychoactive compound. The chemical synergy within the mixture allows the DMT to become orally active by protecting it from degradation by monoamine oxidase. Consequently, the inclusion of the Psychotria carthagenensis leaf is fundamental to the pharmacological efficacy of the entire beverage.