5,6-Dihydroyangonin
5,6-Dihydroyangonin is a naturally occurring kavalactone found in the kava plant, Piper methysticum. It is one of the active compounds responsible for the psychoactive effects of kava, which is traditionally used in the South Pacific for its sedative and anxiolytic properties.
Chemical Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]
5,6-Dihydroyangonin is a derivative of yangonin, another kavalactone. Its chemical structure is characterized by a lactone ring, which is a cyclic ester, and it has the molecular formula C15H14O3. The compound is a yellow crystalline solid at room temperature.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
5,6-Dihydroyangonin acts on the central nervous system and is believed to contribute to the anxiolytic and sedative effects of kava. It is thought to interact with the GABAergic system, although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. Some studies suggest that it may also have an affinity for the cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB1, which could explain some of its psychoactive properties.
Effects[edit | edit source]
The consumption of kava containing 5,6-Dihydroyangonin can lead to relaxation, reduced anxiety, and a sense of well-being. It is often used in social and ceremonial contexts in the South Pacific. However, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects such as dizziness, nausea, and hepatotoxicity.
Safety and Toxicity[edit | edit source]
While kava is generally considered safe when consumed in moderation, there have been reports of liver damage associated with its use. The exact cause of hepatotoxicity is not well understood, but it may be related to the presence of certain kavalactones, including 5,6-Dihydroyangonin. It is important for consumers to be aware of the potential risks and to use kava responsibly.
Research and Studies[edit | edit source]
Research on 5,6-Dihydroyangonin is ongoing, with studies focusing on its pharmacological effects, potential therapeutic uses, and safety profile. Some studies are exploring its potential as a natural anxiolytic agent, while others are investigating its interactions with other neurotransmitter systems.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
