1. α-Peroxyachifolid and other new sensitizing sesquiterpene lactones from yarrow (<em>Achillea millefolium</em> L., Compositae).
- Author
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Hausen, B.M., Breuer, J., Weglewskr, J., and Rücker, G.
- Subjects
CONTACT dermatitis ,ALLERGIES ,LACTONES ,GUINEA pigs ,ASTERACEAE ,PLANTS - Abstract
Yarrow, Achillea millefohum L, is one of the commonest weeds of the Compositae family. Cases of allergic contact dermatitis have, been described since 1899. Although 10 sesquiterpene lactones (SL) and 3 polyines have previously been identified, the sensilizers of yarrow have eseaped detection. A reinvetigation of short either extracts of yarrow revealed the presence of 5 unsalurated hitherto unknown guaianolides of peroxide character. Tile main SL. identified as a strong, sensitizer in guinea pig sensitization experiments, was named α-peroxyachifolid. The minor SL also contribute marginally to the sensitizing capacity, while other known yarrow constituents like dehydromatricaria ester and pontica epoxide appear to play no role A 5-year follow-up (1985 1990) of Compositine-sensitive patients showed that more than 50% reacted when tested with a short either extract of ?arrows. Exacerbation of the patch test silos by irradiation with UV light was never observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 1991
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