Characterization of the anticancer properties of monoglycosidic cardenolides isolated from Nerium oleander and Streptocaulon tomentosum

Monoglycosidic cardenolides possessing the 3β,14β-dihydroxy-5β-card-20(22)-enolide structure with or without an acetoxy group at C-16 are the most active anticancer compounds from the traditionally used roots of Streptocaulon tomentosum and from the patented cold aqueous Breastin-preparation of Nerium oleander leaves.