Abstract
Publisher Summary The contradictory observations on the toxicity of coumarin stimulated the research into closely related coumarin derivatives in biochemical–pharmacological studies. This chapter emphasizes on the biological properties of these compounds. It has been considered important to discuss the chemical structure–biological activity relationship of simple coumarins, coumarin anticoagulants, light sensitisers, aflatoxins, and related isocoumarin derivatives. The coumarin nucleus is the basis of various compounds possessing several pharmacological and physiological activities. Plant extracts containing these compounds have been applied against gastrointestinal diseases, typhus, paralysis, for the therapy of leucoderma, and as anticoagulants. In veterinary medicine, they have been used as diuretics, or against trichomonas infection. Coumarins have also been applied in industry, mainly as food flavors. The chapter discusses the metabolism of coumarins in plants, animals, microorganisms, and metabolism by intestinal microorganisms. The chapter also discusses coumarins effect on plants and algae. Due to its pleasant flavor, coumarin has been widely used as an ingredient in food products and drugs, although early studies have shown the adverse effect of this compound to man.
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