The term ‘alkaloid’ is commonly used to designate basic heterocyclic nitrogenous compounds of plant origin that are physiologically active. Alkaloids are a huge group of naturally occurring organic compounds which contain nitrogen atom or atoms (amino or amido in some cases) in their structures. "True alkaloids" are derived from amino acids and have nitrogen in a heterocyclic ring, e.g. atropine. "Protoalkaloids" are derived from amino acids and do not have nitrogen in a heterocyclic ring, e.g. ephedrine. Alkaloids have complex molecular structure and significant physiologival activity. Alkaloids are generally colourless, crystalline and non-volatile liquids and are bitter in taste. Alkaloids are generally insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol, ether or chloroform. Many of the alkaloids are important drugs. The presentation gives better understanding on the topic.

Neethu K Prasanth

5 resources

0

0

0

Like