Answer to Question #254129 in General Chemistry for Lole

Question

Natural Product: KAVALACTONES

• the IUPAC and the common names of the Kavalactones.
• the structure of the kavalactones including stereochemistry and numbering.
• the genus and species name of Kavalactones from which it was isolated and the name of the family to which this organism belongs.
• the reason the Kavalactones was investigated, and the significance of this reason.
• why Kavalactones was worth reporting, i.e., why is it significant?
• Any biological activity, either originally or subsequently reported.
• the classification of the Kavalactonest, i.e., to which family of natural products does it belong.
• the possible or probable biogenetic pathway (show the biogenetic units in the structure if possible).
• any other plant/organisms which have been found to contain this natural product(Kavalactones).
• the names and structures of other Kavalactones isolated from Kava plant, and their relationship to the Kavalactones, if any.

Answer 1

6-[(E)-2-(cyclohexa-1,5-dien-1-yl)ethenyl]-4-methoxy-5,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-2-one

Kava kava (“kava” for short) contains substances called kavapyrones. They act much like alcohol on your brain, making you feel calm, relaxed, and happy. The plant is also thought to relieve pain, prevent seizures, and relax muscles. You can buy it as an herbal supplement online and in health food stores.