Tricin from Alfalfa—Isolation and Physiological Activity

Tricin was isolated from the press juice of fresh alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and identified by comparing its physical and chemical properties to authentic material. Tricin caused smooth muscle relaxation when in contact with isolated guinea pig intestinal strips but did not produce bloat in sheep. It exhibited only slight activity as an antioxidant, measured by the protection of epinephrine from oxidation. The activity of tricin as an estrogen was slight.