Hygrine-occurs in the leaves of Erythroxylon coca, roots of Withania somniferum

A. Hygrine

Biological Sources It occurs in the leaves of Erythroxylon coca Lam., (Erythroxylaceae) (Coca); and the roots of Withania somniferum (L.) Dunal. (Solanaceae) (Ashwagandha).

Chemical Structure

(R)-1-(1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)-2-propanone; (C₈H₁₅NO).

Characteristic Features

1. It is a liquid having bp11 76.5°C; bp₁₄ 81°C; n_D²⁰1.4555.

2. It is soluble in dilute mineral acids, chloroform and ethanol; and slightly soluble in water.

Identification Test It forms oxime readily (C₈H₁₆N₂O) which is obtained as crystals from ether having mp 123-124°C.

Uses The drug is broadly used as a sedative, hypnotic laxative and diuretic.