57. The first alkaloid to be isolated and characterized from plants is:
(a) Caffeine
(b) Cocaine
(c) Morphine,
(d) Quinine

Introduction

Alkaloids are a diverse group of naturally occurring organic compounds that predominantly contain nitrogen atoms. These compounds are produced by a variety of plants and are often known for their pharmacological effects on humans and animals. The isolation and characterization of alkaloids from plants played a crucial role in the development of natural medicine. But do you know which was the first alkaloid ever isolated from plants?

The First Alkaloid: Morphine

The first alkaloid to be isolated and characterized from plants is morphine, which was derived from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). Morphine was isolated by the German pharmacist Friedrich Sertürner in 1804, marking a significant milestone in the study of plant-derived compounds. Morphine is an alkaloid with powerful pain-relieving properties and is still used today in medicine as an analgesic.

Other Alkaloids of Interest

While morphine was the first to be isolated, several other well-known alkaloids followed, each with its own unique properties:

• Caffeine:

  • Found in coffee, tea, and several other plants, caffeine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, promoting wakefulness.

• Cocaine:

  • Derived from the coca plant (Erythroxylum coca), cocaine was used historically as a stimulant but is now recognized for its highly addictive properties.

• Quinine:

  • Isolated from the bark of the cinchona tree (Cinchona officinalis), quinine was historically used to treat malaria due to its antimalarial properties.

Conclusion

The isolation of morphine from the opium poppy was a groundbreaking discovery in plant biochemistry. It marked the beginning of a deeper understanding of plant-derived compounds and their medicinal properties. Today, alkaloids continue to be of immense importance in both traditional and modern medicine.

Thus, the correct answer is:

• (c) Morphine.

Correct Answer: (c) Morphine