Compound Monograph
Leonuride
Leonuride is an iridoid glycoside reported from motherwort.
Classification
Leonuride is an iridoid glycoside, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Leonuride is a naturally occurring iridoid glycoside, found in Motherwort. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Leonuride (ajugol) is an iridoid glycoside reported from motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) and some other plants. Despite the chemical-family label of “diterpenoid glycoside” in some listings, its structure is that of a monoterpene-derived iridoid glucoside. Little is established about it on its own beyond its occurrence as one of the plant’s minor constituents.
Toxicity & Safety
The isolated toxicology of leonuride has not been characterised. It occurs as a minor component of a herb with long traditional use.