# Ololiuqui (Turbina corymbosa)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/ololiuqui
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** South American
**Also Known As:** Turbina corymbosa, Rivea corymbosa, Coaxihuitl, Mexican morning glory, Christmas vine, Badoh, Badoh negro, Snake plant, Correhuela, Tlitliltzin

## Overview

Ololiuqui (Turbina corymbosa) is a morning glory species containing lysergic acid amide (LSA), a psychoactive compound. LSA modulates [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) 5-HT2A receptors, producing consciousness-altering effects used traditionally in Aztec spiritual ceremonies.

## Health Benefits

• Potentially modulates [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) receptors, inferred from LSA content similar to LSD precursors (Traditional evidence).
• May produce psychedelic effects beneficial for spiritual insight (Traditional historical use).
• Possible use in religious and healing rituals due to psychoactive properties (Historical records).
• Historically used for divination and spiritual experiences (Cultural evidence).
• Contains ergine, which is known for its psychoactive effects (Chemical analysis).

## Mechanism of Action

Lysergic acid amide (LSA) in ololiuqui seeds acts as a partial agonist at [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors in the brain. This serotonergic activity alters [neurotransmitter](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) signaling pathways, particularly affecting the prefrontal cortex and limbic system. LSA also shows affinity for dopamine D2 receptors, contributing to its psychoactive properties.

## Clinical Summary

No modern clinical trials exist for ololiuqui specifically, with research limited to ethnobotanical studies and traditional use documentation. Historical accounts from Aztec codices describe ceremonial use by priests and healers for divination purposes. Chemical analysis confirms LSA content ranging from 0.01-0.1% in seeds, significantly lower than synthetic psychedelics. Current evidence relies entirely on traditional knowledge and phytochemical analysis rather than controlled human studies.

## Nutritional Profile

Ololiuqui (Turbina corymbosa) seeds are not consumed as a nutritional food source; primary bioactive compounds are ergine alkaloids. Key documented compounds include: d-lysergic acid amide (LSA/ergine) at approximately 0.012-0.025% of seed dry weight (the primary psychoactive constituent), d-isolysergic acid amide (isoergine) at comparable trace concentrations, chanoclavine at roughly 0.005% dry weight, elymoclavine and lysergol as minor ergot alkaloids each estimated below 0.003% dry weight. Fixed oils (fatty acids including oleic and linoleic acid) constitute approximately 10-15% of seed mass and likely serve as lipid carriers influencing alkaloid absorption rate. Crude protein content estimated at 15-20% of seed dry weight based on related Convolvulaceae family members, composed largely of structural seed proteins with no established nutritional value in traditional use context. Crude fiber estimated at 20-30% seed dry weight. Carbohydrates present as seed endosperm starches approximately 30-40% dry weight. Micronutrient data is largely undocumented; trace minerals consistent with Convolvulaceae seeds (potassium, magnesium, phosphorus) are inferred but unquantified. Bioavailability note: LSA is orally active with absorption occurring via gastrointestinal mucosa; lipid content may enhance alkaloid bioavailability; onset typically 30-90 minutes indicating moderate GI absorption rate.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges exist due to the absence of human trials. Traditional use by indigenous groups involves 13 powdered seeds. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Ololiuqui seeds contain potentially dangerous psychoactive compounds that can cause hallucinations, anxiety, and psychological distress. LSA may interact dangerously with antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and MAOIs, potentially causing [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) syndrome. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to unknown effects on fetal development. Legal status varies by jurisdiction, with many countries classifying LSA-containing plants as controlled substances.

## Scientific Research

No key human clinical trials or meta-analyses are available for Turbina corymbosa. Research focuses primarily on historical and chemical analysis, with effects inferred from related species.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Ololiuqui seeds were commonly used in Mesoamerican traditional medicine, especially by the Aztecs and other native Mexican cultures for religious rituals and spiritual insight. These practices have continued in modern indigenous groups in Oaxaca.

## Synergistic Combinations

Ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea, Ginkgo biloba, Reishi mushroom, Valerian root

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much LSA is in ololiuqui seeds?

Ololiuqui seeds typically contain 0.01-0.1% LSA by weight, which is significantly lower than related morning glory species. This translates to approximately 0.1-1mg LSA per gram of seeds.

### What is the difference between ololiuqui and morning glory?

Ololiuqui (Turbina corymbosa) is a specific morning glory species with white flowers and higher LSA content. Common morning glory (Ipomoea tricolor) has blue flowers and different alkaloid profiles.

### Is ololiuqui legal to possess?

Legal status varies by country, with many jurisdictions controlling LSA-containing plants under psychedelic substance laws. Seeds may be legal for ornamental purposes but illegal for consumption in most Western countries.

### How did Aztecs traditionally use ololiuqui?

Aztec priests consumed ololiuqui seeds during religious ceremonies for divination and spiritual communication. Seeds were ground and consumed as powder or brewed into ceremonial drinks under strict ritual protocols.

### What are the side effects of ololiuqui?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, muscle tension, and anxiety lasting 6-8 hours. Psychological effects can include confusion, panic, and disturbing hallucinations, particularly in unprepared users.

### Does ololiuqui interact with psychiatric medications or SSRIs?

Ololiuqui contains LSA, which may interact with serotonergic medications including SSRIs, SNRIs, and antipsychotics due to potential serotonin receptor modulation. Combined use could increase the risk of serotonin syndrome or reduce medication efficacy. Anyone taking psychiatric medications should avoid ololiuqui and consult their healthcare provider before use.

### Is ololiuqui safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Ololiuqui is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its psychoactive LSA content and lack of safety data in these populations. The potential effects on fetal development and infant exposure through breast milk are unknown and pose unacceptable risk. Pregnant or nursing individuals should completely avoid this ingredient.

### How does ololiuqui compare to other traditional psychedelic plants in terms of LSA content and intensity?

Ololiuqui seeds typically contain 0.02–0.3% LSA by weight, making them less potent than some morning glory varieties but more consistent than most other traditional sources. The psychoactive intensity varies significantly based on seed source, growing conditions, and extraction method, resulting in less predictable effects compared to standardized pharmaceutical compounds. Individual responses to ololiuqui can be highly variable compared to other ethnobotanicals with more documented potency ranges.

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