Melilotoside

Melilotoside is a naturally occurring coumarin glycoside found in plants of the genus Melilotus, commonly known as sweet clover. It is also present in other plants, including certain species of Trigonella and Dipcadi. Chemically, melilotoside is a derivative of coumarin, with a glucose molecule attached to its structure. It is also known as coumarin-7-O-glucoside or 7-hydroxycoumarin-7-O-glucoside.

In plants, melilotoside is believed to play a role in defense mechanisms and possibly in signaling pathways. Upon hydrolysis, it releases coumarin, a compound with a characteristic sweet scent and a range of reported biological activities, including anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The enzymatic conversion of melilotoside to coumarin is a key step in releasing the active compound.

Research has explored the potential applications of melilotoside and its derived coumarin. Due to coumarin's anticoagulant effects, substances containing melilotoside have historically been used, albeit with caution, in traditional medicine. Modern research continues to investigate the pharmacological properties of coumarins and their glycosides for potential therapeutic uses. The presence of melilotoside in edible plants, such as certain herbs and vegetables, also contributes to the overall dietary intake of coumarin-related compounds. The bioavailability and metabolic fate of melilotoside in biological systems are subjects of ongoing scientific study.