Neo-clerodane diterpenes from the hallucinogenic sage Salvia divinorum.
Journal of natural products – December 01, 2006
Source: PubMed
Summary
The unique properties of *Salvia divinorum*, a sage celebrated for its potent effects, are rooted in its intricate chemistry. Recently, researchers achieved a significant breakthrough, uncovering several previously unknown compounds within this remarkable plant. The aim was to identify and characterize specific chemical components, particularly a class known as neo-clerodane diterpenes. Using advanced spectroscopic techniques, the team successfully isolated an impressive total of 22 distinct compounds. Crucially, seven entirely new neo-clerodane diterpenes were identified, including salvidivins A-D, salvinorins H-I, and divinatorin F. The precise molecular structures of these novel compounds were meticulously determined, alongside the confirmation of several known active compounds. This work significantly expands our understanding of the complex chemical makeup of *Salvia divinorum*, revealing a wealth of unique natural products that contribute to its distinctive characteristics.
Abstract
Seven new neo-clerodane diterpenes, salvidivins A (2), B, (3), C (4), and D (5), salvinorins H (6) and I (7), and divinatorin [corrected] F (8), along with eight known neo-clerodane diterpenes, salvinorins A (1)-F, divinatorins A and B, and seven other constituents, were isolated from the hallucinogenic sage Salvia divinorum. The structures of 1-7 were elucidated on the basis of 2D NMR spectroscopic studies.