Alkaloids in Plants as Natural Remedies

Overview of Alkaloids

Alkaloids are plant compounds containing nitrogen that have a strong effect on humans and animals. The term alkaloid originated in the early 19th century when morphine, the first pure alkaloid, was isolated from the opium poppy.

Based on their biosynthetic origin, alkaloids are divided into protoalkaloids, pseudoalkaloids, and true alkaloids. Protoalkaloids are simple bases derived directly from amino acids, such as thiamine, histamine, and choline. Pseudoalkaloids have a non-alkaloid basic structure, with nitrogen in their molecules being incidental. This group includes steroidal and triterpenoid alkaloids.

True alkaloids are characterized by nitrogen atoms always being bound in cyclic systems. Alkaloids are often classified based on their presence in plants and plant families, their chemical composition, and their characteristic pharmacological effects.

Occurrence and Role in Plants

In plants, alkaloids exist as salts of organic acids, which are water-soluble, or are bound to tannins. Approximately seven thousand alkaloids are known today. Rare or unknown alkaloids are found in bacteria, algae, fungi, and mosses.

Among ferns, alkaloids are present only in clubmoss and horsetail, and among gymnosperms, in yew and ground pine. The largest number of alkaloids is found in dicotyledonous plants. Some alkaloids, such as caffeine and nicotine, are widespread, while others are found only in specific plant families or species.

Plants usually contain one main alkaloid and several accompanying alkaloids, all derived from the same biogenetic precursor.

The role of alkaloids in plants is not entirely clear, but they likely serve in nitrogen transport and storage. They partially protect plants from bacteria, fungi, viruses, and animals that might consume them.

An exception is certain insects that ingest alkaloids to synthesize pheromones, which are used to attract mates.

Medicinal Effects and Precautions

Alkaloids affect all organ systems, including the nervous system, heart and circulation, respiratory, digestive, and urinary organs. They also act against rheumatic inflammations and stimulate the immune system. Recently, doctors have been focusing on alkaloids that inhibit cell division, including cancer cells.

The effects of alkaloids are potent and toxic, so they should only be used in prepared medicines with precisely determined quantities. Treatment, daily dosage, and success should always be supervised by a doctor to prevent poisoning by these active substances.