Alkaloids and saponins from blue cohosh

Phytochemistry. 2008 Feb;69(4):1037-42. doi: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2007.10.011. Epub 2007 Nov 28.

Abstract

Blue cohosh, Caulophyllum thalictroides (L.) Michx. (Berberidaceae), is used primarily to cure menstrual disturbances and to ease childbirth. Alkaloids and saponins are considered to be responsible for its pharmacological activity. A detailed phytochemical investigation of blue cohosh resulted in the isolation of 15 compounds belonging to the alkaloids and the triterpene saponins. The structures of two alkaloids, caulophyllumines A (1) and B (2) and a saponin, cauloside H (3) both previously unknown were determined by spectroscopic techniques, including by 1- and 2-D NMR as well as by chemical analysis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Alkaloids / chemistry*
  • Caulophyllum / chemistry*
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Molecular Structure
  • Saponins / chemistry*

Substances

  • Alkaloids
  • Saponins