The Shulgin Index

The Shulgin Index: Volume One book cover

The Shulgin Index is a comprehensive reference work authored by the renowned chemist Alexander Shulgin. It serves as an extensive catalog of the known psychedelic and psychoactive compounds, detailing their chemical structures, properties, and synthesis methods. The index is a valuable resource for researchers, chemists, and students interested in the field of psychopharmacology and the study of mind-altering substances.

Overview

The Shulgin Index is divided into multiple volumes, with each volume focusing on a specific class of compounds. The first volume, titled The Shulgin Index: Volume One and published in 2011, covers phenethylamines, a class of compounds that includes many well-known psychedelics such as MDMA and mescaline.

The index is designed to provide detailed information on each compound, including its IUPAC name, molecular formula, molecular weight, and CAS number. Additionally, it includes data on the compound's pharmacology, toxicity, and potential therapeutic uses.

Content

The content of The Shulgin Index is meticulously organized to facilitate easy access to information. Each entry in the index includes:

• Chemical Structure: A diagram of the compound's molecular structure.
• Nomenclature: The systematic IUPAC name and any common names or synonyms.
• Physical Properties: Information on the compound's physical state, melting point, boiling point, and solubility.
• Synthesis: Detailed synthesis routes and methods, often including step-by-step instructions.
• Pharmacology: An overview of the compound's effects on the human body, including its mechanism of action and potential side effects.
• Legal Status: Information on the legal classification of the compound in various jurisdictions.

Significance

The Shulgin Index is considered an essential resource for those studying psychopharmacology and neurochemistry. It builds upon the work of Shulgin's earlier books, PiHKAL: A Chemical Love Story and TiHKAL: The Continuation, which explored the synthesis and effects of phenethylamines and tryptamines, respectively.

The index is not only a scientific resource but also a historical document, capturing the breadth of Shulgin's research and contributions to the field of psychedelic science. It reflects his commitment to the exploration of consciousness and the potential therapeutic benefits of psychoactive substances.

Related pages

• Alexander Shulgin
• PiHKAL: A Chemical Love Story
• TiHKAL: The Continuation
• Psychedelic research
• Phenethylamine
• Psychoactive drug