It consists of the dried leaves of the ‘purple foxglove’, Digitalis purpurea, belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae

Commercial Importance

Leaves of digitalis species contain medicinally important glycosides of the cardenolide group. Called cardiac glycosides, these C23 steroidal glycosides exert a slowing and strengthening effect on a failing heart. In conventional medicine, glycosides of digitalis are extensively employed in the treatment of congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. The worldwide use of the drug amounts to several thousands of kilograms per year. Since these glycosides have so far not been synthesized, digitalis leaves are the only source left to meet the pharmaceutical requirement and hence the commercial importance.