Helenin


Helenin is a phytochemical mixture found in many plant species, including the Inula helenium of the family Asteraceae. It is a mixture of two isomeric sesquiterpene lactones, alantolactone and isoalantolactone.
In 1895 the German scientists Julius Bredt and Wilhelm Posh extracted helenin from Inula helenium and determined its physical and chemical properties.

Natural sources

Alantolactone occurs in the roots of Inula helenium and other Inula species.

Properties

Helenin can be extracted from the roots of Inula helenium using alcohol or other non-polar solvents to produce a mixture with a composition of about 40% alantolactone and 60% isoalantolactone.

Biological activity

Alantolactone has a variety of in vitro biochemical properties, including:
Certain individuals have experienced contact dermatitis when exposed to alantolactone.