Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Mesembrine is an alkaloid compound primarily found in the plant Sceletium tortuosum (Kanna), which has a long history of use in South African traditional medicine for mood elevation and stress relief. Scientifically, mesembrine is known to act as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and a weak phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. Several in vitro and preclinical studies have demonstrated that mesembrine can increase serotonergic activity by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter closely linked to mood, anxiety, and cognitive function. These properties provide a plausible mechanism for its use in supporting the "Specific Neurotransmitters" body system, particularly in relation to serotonin-mediated pathways.

However, while the pharmacological profile is well characterized in laboratory settings, robust clinical trials in humans are limited. Most existing human evidence comes from small-scale studies or open-label trials using Sceletium tortuosum extracts rather than isolated mesembrine. These studies suggest potential benefits for mood and anxiety, but they do not provide high-level evidence specifically for neurotransmitter support. Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and some preclinical support, the current clinical evidence base is not strong, leading to a modest evidence rating.

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