Used in research for its psychoactive properties, Harmine acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which can enhance and prolong the effects of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It is studied for potential antidepressant and neuroprotective effects. Harmine is also known to occur naturally in plants used in traditional entheogenic brews, such as ayahuasca, where it enables the oral activity of DMT by inhibiting its breakdown in the digestive system. Ongoing studies explore its role in promoting neural regeneration and its possible applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, it shows antimicrobial and anticancer activity in laboratory settings, making it a subject of interest in drug development.