Dimethyltryptamine

 So now we're going to entertain ourselves with the fascinating organic molcule: DMT, or dimethyltryptamine. (N,N-DMT)

DMT is a naturally occuring psychedelic compound of the tryptamine family. Its presence is widespread throughout the plant kingdom. It also occurs in traces (trace amine) in mammals, primarily pointing at the direction of humans. It functions as a trace amine neurotransmitter derived from the essential amino acid tryptophan, which is found in high concentrations in chocolate, oats, milk, cheese, red meat, eggs, poultry, fish, and other protein-based foods. Through the help of the enzyme INMT tryptophan is synthesized into DMT during normal metabolism. Structurally DMT is analogous to the neurotransmitter serotonin, melatonin and other psychedelic tryptamines.

When ingested orally DMT acts as a psychedelic drug but its effects depend purely on the dose and method of administration. As the bodies MAO enzymes break it down almost instantly. For this reason when ingested orally MAOI inhibitors is usually also ingested, to prolong the effect. The effects of DMT can range from mild psychedelic states to powerful out of this world experiences as reported by users and clinical trials. These experiences are often described as a total loss of connection to the conventional reality and the encounter of different dimensions. More on this subject can be found in Dr. Strassman's book: DMT the spirit molecule.

What scientists have not figured out is what mechanism causes these strange hallucinations and out of this wordly connections to these other dimensions as described by the volunteers and users of DMT.

More on this subject in future topics, If you have any experience with DMT please feel free to share it.