Sceletium tortuosum (family Aizoaceae) as an indigenous herb of South Africa is a succulent plant that has been used for medicinal purposes from the ancient times. Sceletium tortuosum preparations are known to be used as an ingredient for functional foods, beverages and supplements for promoting health and wellness in healthy people and in sick people (stress, anxiety and depression). Main components of the extracts were classified according to the structural features. Mesembrine and mesembrenone are the two main pharmacologically active alkaloids in the extracts. Importantly, mesembrine has drawn our attention due to the concise structure, broad spectrum, and low toxicities. The general aspects of biological and medicinal properties, and structural features and total synthesis were described. In particular, mesembrine has been known to exhibit antidepressant, anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, sedative, and sleep aid activities without severe side effects. It is believed that the potential of mesembrine and its derivatives is recognized.
서 론(Introduction)
결 론(Conclusion)
감사의 말씀(Acknowledgments)
References