Dimethyltryptamine

/ˌdaɪˈmɛθəlˈtrɪptəˌmin/ noun

Definition

A naturally occurring alkaloid compound (C₁₂H₁₆N₂) found in plants and animals that produces psychoactive effects, known as DMT, sometimes used in shamanic rituals and studied for consciousness research.

Etymology

From dimethyl (two methyl groups) + tryptamine (from tryptophan, an amino acid, + amine). Tryptamine is a neurotransmitter derivative. The compound was first synthesized in 1931.

Kelly Says

DMT (dimethyltryptamine) might be the strangest drug on Earth—it produces intense hallucinations lasting only minutes, and some researchers believe the brain produces tiny amounts naturally during dreams and death.

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