Chp 1 Molecules Flashcards
Mucilage
- Made up polysaccharide.
- line the mucous membrane of the digestive system and extend to other areas (protective action).
Phenols
- They are antiseptic and reduce inflammation.
- Irritant effect when applied to the skin.
Tannins
-Astringent taste of tannin→unpalatable for insects.
-Tannins may be employed medicinally in
anti-diarrheal, hemostatic, and anti-
Coumarins
- found in many plants.
- high concentration in the tonka bean, woodruff, and bison grass. precursor for several anticoagulants, warfarin,
Bitters
- The bitterness stimulate secretion of salivary gland and digestive organs.
- improve appetite and overall function of the digestive system.
Alkaloids
- Nitrogen bearing molecule (-NH2) make them pharm. active.
- used medicinally as analgesics (pain relievers) or anesthetics, particularly morphine and codeine, and for other uses.
Minerals
- Some herbs reach in minerals.
- Egg. Horsetail has high levels of silica.
- Dandelion has high levels of potassium
Volatile Oils
- Strong antiseptic effect.
- Some V.oils anti-inflammatory.
Saponins
- 2 types: triterpenoid & steroidal saponin.
- Similar to endogenous steroids.
Cyanogenic Glycosides
- Potent poison.
- In small doses produces sedative and relaxant effect on the heart and muscles.
Anthraquinones
- Main active constituents in herbs such senna
- Anthraquinone is used as a laxative.
Flavonoids
- They are anti-inflammatory .
- Useful in maintaining healthy circulation.
Anthocyanins
- Blackberry and grapes contains appreciable quantities of anthocyanins.
- Keep blood vessels healthy.
Glucosillinates
- Irritant for skin.
- Applied to painful joints→inc. blood flow to affected area→remove waste products
Gums
- Produced by plant when injured.
- Produced outside the plant cell.
- Soluble in water to form adhesive solution.
- Made of sugar salts of uronic acid. • e.g. acacia, tragacanth
