Expedient synthesis of polyhydroxyisoflavones

A general and direct synthesis of polyhydroxy isoflavones (3-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4-ones) starting from the corresponding unprotected phenols and arylacetic acids is described. The aryl rings may carry additional alkyl, methoxy and/or halogeno groups. Intermediate polyhydroxy deoxybenzoins (1,2-diphenylethanones) can also be isolated in good yield.