Saponins with Molluscicidal Properties from Lonicera nigraL

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 1H‐NMR., 13C‐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.