Compound Monograph

Triterpenic lactones

Triterpene compounds bearing a lactone (cyclic ester) ring; a structurally varied group reported in several tonic herbs, often with anti-inflammatory or hepatoprotective activity.

Classification

Triterpenic lactones are triterpenes, 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? (3)

Triterpenic lactones are triterpenes, found in Ganoderma, Schisandra and Schizandra.