Compound Monograph
Imperatorin
A furanocoumarin found in angelica and related plants, studied for various activities and notable as a photoactive coumarin.
Classification
Imperatorin is a furanocoumarin, part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (2)
Imperatorin is a naturally occurring furanocoumarin, found in Angelica and Bishop's weed. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Imperatorin is a furanocoumarin found in angelica, bishop’s weed and a number of other plants in the carrot family and elsewhere. It has been studied in the laboratory for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and other activities, and it is reported to interact with drug-metabolising enzymes. As a furanocoumarin it shares the photochemical reactivity characteristic of that class.
Toxicity & Safety
Furanocoumarins such as imperatorin can act as photosensitisers, so plants and preparations rich in them may increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light and contribute to phototoxic skin reactions on sun exposure. People using furanocoumarin-rich herbs topically or in quantity should be mindful of sun exposure. As with other furanocoumarins, interactions with the metabolism of certain medicines are possible.