Chelerythrine is a benzophenanthridine alkaloid isolated from the root of Zanthoxylum simulans, Chelidonium majus L., and other Papaveraceae. It has a role as an EC 2.7.11.13 (protein kinase C, PKC-alpha/-beta) inhibitor, an antibacterial agent and an antineoplastic agent. It is a benzophenanthridine alkaloid and an organic cation.