Bilirubin is mainly extracted from bile. Bilirubin is insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents such as benzene, chloroform and carbon disulfide. It is slightly soluble in ethanol and ether. Bilirubin can also be dissolved in a mixture of hot ethanol and chloroform. The sodium salt of bilirubin. Soluble in water, but calcium, magnesium, and barium salts are insoluble in water. Bilirubin is a pale orange or dark reddish brown monoclinic crystal. Its dry solids are relatively stable.Bilirubin has a variety of pharmacological effects and is the main raw material for the manufacture of artificial bezoar.An antioxidant that protects membrane phospholipids from oxidation by hydrogen peroxide radicals.