Clarification of the Saponin Composition of Ranunculus ficaria Tubers

Six known saponins, glycosides of hederagenin and oleanolic acid, have been isolated from the tubers of Ranunculus ficaria L. (Ranunculaceae). Their separation included the use of centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC). Structure determination was achieved on the basis of chemical evidence and extensive spectral studies. This is the first report of these triterpene glycosides from R. ficaria.