This alkaloid was first obtained by Hesse during the isolation of the minor alka_x0002_loids from opium (Papaver somniferum). It crystallizes in microscopic prisms
and, according to Machiguchi who obtained it from a specimen of Japanese
opium, it has m.p. 141-5° C. The salts with mineral acids tend to form gels
which are difficult to crystallize although the sulphate has been obtained as
colourless needles, the acid tartrate as prisms and the platinichloride is a crystalline powder. The base gives a colourless solution with FeCI3 and, when pure, the
solution in H2S04 is also colourless. It is only a weak base, possibly phenolic
since, after precipitation from solutions of its salts with alkalies, it rediso1ves in
excess alkali and may be reprecipitated by the addition of ammonium chloride.
