Hygrine

Hygrine is a pyrrolidine alkaloid found primarily in coca leaves (Erythroxylum coca) and other plants of the Erythroxylaceae family. It is considered a minor alkaloid compared to cocaine, but it contributes to the overall psychoactive effects of the coca leaf.

Chemically, hygrine is a hygroscopic oil. It contains a methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom of the pyrrolidine ring and an acetonyl group at the 2-position. Its structure is closely related to that of cuscohygrine, differing only by the absence of a methyl group on one of the pyrrolidine rings.

Hygrine is synthesized in plants via a biosynthetic pathway involving putrescine. While its pharmacology has not been extensively studied in isolation, it is believed to have mild stimulant properties. It is sometimes used in pharmacological research as a reference compound.

The extraction and isolation of hygrine from coca leaves are complex procedures due to its relatively low concentration and the presence of other alkaloids. It is typically extracted using organic solvents and purified through various chromatographic techniques.