Trigonelline, Stachydrine and Betonine are all alkaloids found within Betony. They are all Zwitterions, having separated positive and negative charges.
Trigonelline (N-methylnicotinic Acid, or Nicotinic acid betaine), is found not only in Betony, but also in Fenugreek seeds, Garden Pea s, Hemp seeds, Oats , Coffee and Potato s amongst a few other plants. Trigonelline in coffee is said to impart coffee with some anti-oxidative properties and contribute to its aroma and slightly bitter taste. Trigonelline is also produced within the human body as a result of the metabolism of niacin (Vitamin B3 or Nicotinic Acid ), after which it is excreted in urine.
Stachydrine is also present also in Motherwort , Alfalfa (Lucerne) , Chrysanthemum and Citrus plants. It is the betaine of L-Proline.
Structurally, Betonine is almost identical to Stachydrine, but with an additional hydroxyl group attached to the ring.
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