The alkaloid components in the root of Codonopsis lanceolata were studied. From the ether soluble alkaloid fraction, four $eta$-carboline alkaloids were isolated in crystalline state by chromatographic purification process; comp. I mp $178^{circ}$, isolated yield 4.5$ imes$$10^{-5}%$, comp. II mp $166^{circ}$, 6.0$ imes$$10^{-5}%$, comp. III mp $164^{circ}$, 1.8$ imes$$10^{-4}%$ and comp. IV mp $197^{circ}$, 3.5$ imes$$10^{-5}%$. They were identified by spectral analysis and by total synthesis as being a new component $N_9$-formylharman, and already known components in other plant 1-carbomethoxy-$eta$-carboline, perlolyrine and norharman.