Saponins with Molluscicidal Properties from <i>Lonicera nigra</i><scp>L</scp>

Abstract

Abstract Eight triterpenoid saponins (1–8) have been isolated from the berries of Lonicera nigra L . (Caprifoliaceae) by combination of droplet counter‐current chromatography and column chromatography on silica. The structures have been established by 1 H‐NMR., 13 C‐NMR. spectroscopy, FD.‐MS., FAB.‐MS. and D./CI.‐MS., and on the basis of acidic and basic hydrolyses. The monodesmosidic saponins 1–5 possess strong molluscicidal activity against the schistosomiasis‐transmitting snail Biomphalaria glabrata , whereas the bidesmosidic saponins 6–8 are inactive.