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The diterpenoid, paclitaxel, which was identified as a potent chemotherapy agent for breast and ovarian cancer originates from the Pacific Yew tree. Though the life-saving compound was initially found in the bark, its presence was later confirmed in every part of the tree excluding the fruit.¹ Paclitaxel, is a member of the taxane family and has been associated with the highly toxic nature of the Taxus genus.² Paclitaxel was discovered to inhibit mitosis in tumor cells and other fast growing cells through the binding of microtubules.³ This behavior led to its use as a tumor suppression agent. The isolation of paclitaxel from its major impurities is shown below with the use of Hamilton’s PRP-1 (5 µm) HPLC column.