The indole ring is a heterocyclic aromatic organic compound consisting of a benzene ring fused to a pyrrole ring. It's a common structural motif in many natural products, including Rauwolfia alkaloids.
Rauwolfia alkaloids, such as reserpine, are characterized by the presence of an indole nucleus in their chemical structure. This indole ring system is a key structural feature of this class of alkaloids, which are known for their diverse pharmacological activities, particularly in the treatment of hypertension and mental disorders.