QUINONES AND OTHER CONSTITUENTS FROM THE ROOTS OF TECOMELLA UNDULATA

Abstract

Light petroleum extract of roots of Tecomella undulata afforded lapachol, dehydrotectol, dehydro-α-lapachone, triacontanol, β–sitosterol and acetone extract gave tectol, 6–O–veratryl catalposide and veratric acid.

Tecomella undulata (G. Don) Seem (syn: Tecoma undulata) (Bignoniaceae) is a small attractive tree when in full bloom; flourishes in dry districts and also at other places where irrigation is not possible. In indigenous system of medicine, it is described to be useful [1, 2] in curing urinary discharges, enlargement of spleen, gonorrhoea, leucoderma and liver diseases. A perusal of literature reveals that no work has been reported on the roots of this plant. However, some work has been reported on its other parts [3–8]. Therefore, it was considered worthwhile to take up the chemical investigation of the roots of this plant.