A psychedelic-rich alkaloid fraction obtained from Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir attenuates somatic and affective symptoms of naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal in C57BL/6 mice.

Abstract

Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. root bark is traditionally used in northeastern Brazil to prepare "Jurema wine", a beverage employed to relieve emotional distress and restore psychological well-being. However, validating its traditional preparations in central substance withdrawal states remains underexplored. To evaluate the ethnopharmacological potential of M. tenuiflora, we investigated the effects of an alkaloid fraction (AF II) from its root bark on somatic and affective morphine withdrawal symptoms in mice, without compromising analgesia. Male C57BL/6 mice were used for the tests. Possible interference with morphine-induced analgesia was assessed using the acetic acid-induced writhing test. The animals were made morphine-dependent using a dose-escalation regimen, and withdrawal syndrome was precipitated with naloxone. AF II (3, 6, or 9 mg/kg, s.c.) was administered before withdrawal induction. AF II did not interfere with morphine analgesia. AF II significantly reduced key somatic signs of morphine withdrawal, decreasing jumping and paw tremor without affecting Walk in reverse. During withdrawal, AF II increased exploratory behavior in the open field and modulated anxiety-related parameters. The AF II from Mimosa tenuiflora, rich in serotonergic compounds, selectively attenuates somatic and affective components of opioid withdrawal in mice without compromising opioid analgesia, supporting its potential as a preliminary candidate for acute opioid withdrawal modulation. These findings provide scientific support for the traditional knowledge surrounding the central psychoactive and restorative properties of M. tenuiflora preparations.