Saponin GlycosidesParts of plants containing saponins are used as detergents. For example; Root of Saponaria officinalis

Types:Aglycone may be of two types; Steroidal Tri terpenoidal

a) GlycyrrhizaBotanical origin:Glycyrrhiza glabra

Family:leguinosae

Part used:Dried rhizome and root

Collection:Root and rhizome is excised from 3-4 years old plant i.e. which have not yet grown fruit. It is done to ensure maximum sweetness. These are dried in shade for 3-4 months.

Chemistry:Glycyrrhiza contains Glycyrrhizic acid. Upon hydrolysis, it produces; Glycyrrhizic acid 2 molecules of glucuronic acidIn addition to this, it contains; Flavonoid glycosides Mannitol Glucose 20% starch

Uses:Flavoring agent in Pharmaceutical preparation. Demulcent and expectorant. Treatment of peptic ulcer. Treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis and Inflammatory conditions Sweetener Treatment of liver diseases and liver protection

b) SarsaparillaBotanical Origin:Smilax febrifuga Smilax regelii

Family:Liliaceae

Part used:Dried root

Collection:Root collected from 2-3 year old plant and sun dried.

Chemistry:Active ingredient is Sarsaponin Upon hydrolysis, it produces; Sarsapogenin 3 D-glucose 1 L-rhamnose

Uses:Flavoring agent Used in skin diseases Used in rheumatism

Cyanophore Glycosides

Upon hydrolysis these glycosides produce Hydrocyanic acid i.e. HCN

Wild cherryBotanical origin:Prunus serotina

Family:Rosaceae

Part used:Dried bark

Collection:Bark is collected in autumn and sun dried. Drug is almost odorless when dried but attains strong odor of benzaldehyde after moisturizing.

Chemistry:Active principle is Prunasin. It is formed from partial hydrolysis of amygdalin.

In addition to this, it contains; Tannins Volatile oil Benzoic acid

Uses:Astringent Sedative Flavoring agent Anti-tussive