Clerodendron infortunatum

X-ray analyses of (5,5)-fused heterocycles are being reported in increasing numbers. The structure of Clerodin, the bitter principle of Clerodendron infortunatum which contains a furo[2,3-6]furan ring moiety (1), was elucidated by an X-ray study (61MI43600). 

C24H34O7, Mr 434.53, mp. 161-162°C, [a] -37.6° (CjHsOHX Diterpene of the clerodane type from leaves of Clerodendron infortunatum (Verbenaceae), exhibits anthelmintic properties. 

This class of bicyclic diterpenoids derive their generic name and chirality from (-)-clerodin (402), the bitter principle from the leaves and twigs of Clerodendron infortunatum (180, 328). The oleoresin of Hardmckiapinnata contains several compounds of this class, including the simplest clerodane, kolavenol... 

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