Phenolic compounds of the genus Iris plants (Iridaceae).

Unlabelled: This article presents the results of testing of phenolic compounds (flavonoids, isoflavonoids, xanthones, phenolcarboxylic acids, tannins, coumarins, etc.) in the rhizomes of four Iris species (Iris sibirica L., Iris pseudacorus L., Iris imbricatа Lindl., Iris hungarica Waldst. et Kit.). With the use of paper and thin-layer chromatography, fifteen phenolic compounds were identified: gallic, coumaric, cinnamic, chlorogenic, neochlorogenic, ferulic, caffeic acids; kaempferol, quercetin, hispidulin, daidzein, genistein, formononetin, mangiferin and isomangiferin. Quantitative contents of flavonoids (1.2-3.7%), hydroxycinnamic acids (0.6-6.5%), γ-pyrones (0.01-0.8%), tannins (6-14%), isoflavonoids (1-2%), polyphenolic compounds (up to 3%) in the rhizomes of the Iris species were determined. Chosen plants belong to natural flora and have been often cultivated. However, this phytochemical analysis for the main groups of the biologically active substances shows a perspective use of the Iris species in medicine.

Key Words: Iris species Iridaceae phenolic compounds chromatography qualitative analysis quantitative contents.