text: what is alkaloid? what is alkaloid in pharmacology? an alkaloid, strictly speaking, is a naturally-occurring amine produced by a plant, but amines produced by animals and fungi are also called alkaloids.  amines are organic compounds and a type of functional group that contain nitrogen as the key atom. they can be used in aromas, dyes and medicines. they can also be deadly.  drugs chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine the helps to relieve allergic disorders due to cold, hay fever, itchy skin, insect bites and stings.  chlorpromazine is a tranquillizer that sedates without inducing sleep. it is used to relieve anxiety, excitement, restlessness or even mental disorder.  ephedrine and phenylephrine, as amine hydrochlorides, are used as decongestants.  amphetamine, methamphetamine, and methcathinone are amines that are listed as controlled substances by the dea.  (from wiki)