Alternanthera philoxeroides, an invasive weed, contains an interesting amide

[downwardsfromzero]

http://libres.uncg.edu/ir/uncg/f/W_Jia_AntitumorConstituents_2007.pdf

Abstract:
Two new compounds, alternanthin B (1) and N-trans-feruloyl-3,5-dimethoxytyramine (2) [emphasis added], along with four known compounds (3 - 6) were isolated from the aerial parts of Alternanthera philoxeroides. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods. The antitumor activity of the isolated compounds was also evaluated.

Some of you might notices the resemblance of the right-hand portion of the molecule (picture attached) to certain cactus alkaloids. The occurrence of this molecule is consistent with the position of Alternanthera philoxeroides in the order Caryophyllales.

 

[0_o]

Interesting, particularly the part about the molecule being taxonomically appropriate.

It reminds me of the report of an Alternanthera as an admixture to ayahuasca.
See attached jpg.

 

[downwardsfromzero]

Thanks for that tidbit! It's been suggested here , at least, that tropane alkaloids are responsible for the intoxicating effects of Alternanthera lehmannii - which would also explain its use as an ayahuasca admixture plant.

Considering Alternanthera philoxeroides is used as a vegetable it seems fair to infer that its psychoactive effects are minimal to zero. The "interesting amide" is likely present only in trace amounts (if at all - it's prudent to be sceptical about these kinds of reports) and it's not clear what effects it may have.