Abstract

The flora of Sri Lanka comprises about 3500 flowering plants of which about 850 species are endemic to the island [1]. Of these 3500 species, about 750 are claimed to have uses in the indigenous system of medicine [2]. In a continuation of our studies towards the discovery of biologically active saponins from Sri Lankan plants, we have chemically investigated Diploclisia glaucescens and Anamirta cocculus (Menispermaceae), Pometia eximia and Filicium decipiens (Sapindaceae), Terminalia catappa (Combretaceae) and Uncaria elliptica (Rubiaceae). Chemical investigation of the methanol extracts of these plants led to the isolation of over twenty five saponins. Of them fifteen triterpenoidal saponins were found to be new natural products. Some of them showed insecticidal, anti-inflammatory and strong molluscicidal activity.

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