CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS OF RANDIA TETRASPERMA

Abstract

n-mannitol bas been isolated in slightly higher than 1 % yield. The saponins have been detected by general test for saponins and positive tests for a triterpenoid. The sugar obtained on hydrolysis of saponins were identified as D–glucose and D–galactose, the later being present in traces. The triterpenoid sapogenins have been found to be a mixture of two compounds which have been isolated. The physical and the chemical data support the compounds identity to Randialic acid A and B. The non-saponin fraction has been isolated through the lead salt. The lead acetate complex on treatment with hydrogen sulphide has yielded scopletin, which has been methylated to provide 6,7–dimethoxy coumarin (scoparone).