Compound Monograph
Verbenalin
Verbenalin (cornin) is an iridoid glycoside characteristic of vervain.
Classification
Verbenalin 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? (3)
Verbenalin is a naturally occurring iridoid glycoside, found in Blue vervain, Common vervain and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Verbenalin, also called cornin, is an iridoid glycoside and one of the marker constituents of vervain (Verbena) species, which have a long history of traditional herbal use. Iridoid glycosides as a group are common in this and related plant families and contribute to their characteristic bitterness. Beyond its role as a chemical marker of Verbena, the specific pharmacology of verbenalin is not extensively established.
Toxicity & Safety
Verbenalin occurs in herbs with a long history of traditional use and is generally regarded as low in toxicity at the levels found in such preparations, though dedicated safety data are limited.