Veratramine-obtained in the rhizomes of Viratrum viride (American Hellebore)

B.2.1 Veratramine

Biological Sources It is obtained in the rhizomes of Viratrum viride Ait. (Liliaceae) (American Hellebore); and also from Veratrum grandiflorum (Maxim.) Loes. F. (Liliaceae).

Chemical Structure The chemical structure of veratramine has also been referred to as azasteroid, wherein the N-atom is present is in one or more side chains.

(3β, 23β)-14, 15, 16, 17-Tetrahydro-veratraman-3, 23-diol (C₂₇H₃₉NO₂).

Characteristic Features

1. It is obtained as crystals having mp 206-207°C.

2. It is slightly soluble in water, but soluble in ethanol and methanol.

Identification Tests

1. It forms a complex with digitonin (1:1) that has uvmas : 268 nm and [α ]_D²⁵  -71.8^o (C = 1.21; [α ]_D²⁵  -70^o (C = 1.56 in methanol).

2. Dihydroveratramine Derivative: The crystals of dihydroveratramine derivative has mp 192.5- 194°C ; [α]_D²⁵  +26^o(C = 1.26 in acetic acid).