Alkaloids Have a Pronounced Pharmacological Effect

Alkaloids are natural nitrogen compounds with alkaline properties that have a pronounced pharmacological effect. The name "alkaloid" literally means an alkali-like substance. In most alkaloids, nitrogen is found in the heterocyclic ring, and they are mostly present in the form of salts. They are very widespread in the plant world, and plants that contain them are often classified as poisonous plant species. They often affect the central nervous system and include some psychoactive drugs (for instance, cocaine.