Pukateine

Pukateine is an alkaloid that is found in the bark of the New Zealand tree Laurelia novae-zelandiae, commonly known as the Pukatea tree. It has been used traditionally by the Māori for its analgesic properties.

Chemistry

Pukateine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid. It is structurally related to other plant-derived alkaloids such as papaverine and laudanosine. Pukateine is a dimer of two aporphine units, which are connected by a carbon-carbon bond at the 2-position.

Pharmacology

Pukateine has been found to have analgesic effects in animal studies. It is thought to work by blocking calcium channels, which are involved in the transmission of pain signals in the body. However, the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.

Traditional use

The bark of the Pukatea tree, which contains pukateine, has been used traditionally by the Māori people for pain relief. The bark is usually boiled in water and the resulting decoction is drunk or applied topically.

Research

Research into the potential medical uses of pukateine is ongoing. Some studies have suggested that it may have potential as a treatment for chronic pain conditions. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to fully understand the pharmacology of pukateine.

See also

• Laurelia novae-zelandiae
• Alkaloid
• Benzylisoquinoline
• Aporphine

Pukateine Resources
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