Compound G2, 2-beta-hydroxy-3-beta-O-(beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-delta 12-oleanene-23,28-dionic acid, isolated from alfalfa roots, demonstrated considerable activity against Cryptococcus neoformans (MIC value of 2 micrograms/ml). Compound G2 exhibited rapid killing of this fungus (MFC value of 4 micrograms/ml) suggesting that it might be a useful active agent in the treatment of cryptococcosis.