On the Stereochemistry of Natural Irones, Dihydroirones, and their Precursors

Natural irones from the essential oil of Iris rhizomes develop by oxidative degradation of C31-triterpenoids produced by the plant. Two enantiomeric forms of irones are found in Iris, oils of different origin. The optical properties and CD spectra of irones, dihydroirones and their C31-precursors are reported and their absolute stereochemistry is determined.