Isoflavanones and 3-Methoxyflavones from the Stem Bark of Platycelphium voense

Abstract

Platycelphium (Engl.) Wild (Leguminosae) is a monotypic genus that occurs in the drier parts of Eastern Africa (Gillett et 01., 1971). Prior to this report, the only phytochemical studies on Platycelphium voense describe the identification of quinolizidine alkaloids through the GC-MS analysis (Asres et 01., 1997; Van Wyk et 01., 1993). As part of the ongoing study of some Leguminosae species of Kenya, we hereby discuss the isolation and characterization of eight compounds including three isoflavanones, one isoflavone, two 3-methoxyflavones and two triterpenes.