Phytochemical screening of the bulbs of Ipheion uniflorum (Liliaceae) has led to the isolation of three new furostanol saponins along with a known phytoecdysteroid, ecdysterone. The latter is a naturally occurring hormone which controls the shedding of the carapace of arthropods (eg crabs) and insects. It may be present in plants to disrupt the development and reproduction of insect pests. It has been used in body building supplements but the evidence is clear - it does not help build muscle mass or endurance or training. Also used in transgenic work in mammals for allowing inserted genes to be switched on or off.

Previously grown as Ipheion uniflorum f. album