Triterpene is an organic compound from the terpene class that consists of 30 carbon atoms formed from six isoprene units. Triterpenes are widely distributed in plants, where they participate in the synthesis of biologically active substances and play an important role in protecting against pathogens and stresses.
Many triterpenes have pronounced pharmacological properties: anti-inflammatory, antiviral, hepatoprotective and antitumor. They are actively researched as the basis for the creation of natural medicines.