Harmane is a tricyclic eukaryotic alkaloid metabolite in the family of ß-carboline alkaloids (BCAs).1,2 BCAs are found primarily in cooked animal protein such as chicken, beef, pork, and fish.3-4 It was recently isolated from several species of psychedelic mushrooms.5 Like other chemicals in the BCA family, harmane is highly neurotoxic.6 High levels in the blood are associated with essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease.7 Harmane is also a potent inhibitor of the enzyme monoamine oxidase A (MOA-A).8 It is an antiviral agent that destroys or inhibits replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).9
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