Tryptamine is widely accepted as a trace amine in the brain, with several reviews covering its metabolism, regional localization, and possible neuroregulatory functions. Other endogenously synthesized indoleamines, such as melatonin, N-acetyl serotonin, 5-methoxytryptamine, and 6-methoxytryptoline, have received minimal attention in trace amine reviews. These substances were primarily regarded as pineal hormones with peripheral actions, but recent evidence suggests they may also act directly in the brain. Hallucinogenic tryptamines like N,N-dimethyltryptamine, 5-methoxy DMT, and N-methyl DMT have also been infrequently discussed in the trace amine literature.
Tryptamine analogs, both natural and synthetic, form a class of hallucinogenic drugs derived from indole. The forensic identification of several specific compounds—psilocin, psilocybin, bufotenin, 5MeODMT, 5MeODIPT (foxy methoxy), DET, and AET—is described. Structural formulas are presented alongside a discussion of short- and long-term physical and psychological effects of abuse. A complete list of plants containing tryptamine analogs is included. Chemical screening using Weber's test is described, along with extraction techniques for thin-layer chromatography, GCMS, and FTIR analysis.