Page 35 - phytochemistry I - PharmD Clinical
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3. Boswellic acid has marked anti-inflammatory action and showed
antineoplastic effect.
Devil's dung 3- Asafetida
Asafetida is the oleo-gum-resin obtained by incision from the rhizome and root of
Ferula foetida, or other species of Ferula, family Apiaceae.
It is the only female plant produceing oleogum resins.
Description (read only):
- Asafoetida occurs in rounded or flattened tears or masses formed by
agglomeration.
- It is grayish-white to dull yellow with milk-white when fresh. On exposure to
air or light it became first pink and then reddish-purple and finally reddish-
brown.
Odour: strong and alliaceous with bitter alliaceous and acrid taste.
Composition:
1- Volatile oil: (10-16%), consists mainly of organic sulphides (some of these
show pesticide properties ).
1- Resin: ( 40-60% ), consists of asaresinols partly free and partly combined
with ferulic acid. Free ferulic acid, combined umbelliferone ( with no free
umbelliferone) and others.
2- Gum:about 20-30%.
3- Others
Uses:
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