Quality Standards of Bupleuri Smithii Radix

Abstract:

Objective: To revise and improve quality standards of Bupleuri Smithii Radix. Method: Cross-section microscopic characteristics and powder characteristics of Bupleuri Smithii Radix were investigated by pharmacognosy study.According to drug standard methods in appendix of 2010 edition of 'Chinese Pharmacopoeia’, moisture, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, alcohol-soluble extractives and contents of bioactive constituents in ten batches of Bupleuri Smithii Radix were determined. Result: Properties and microscopic characteristics of Bupleuri Smithii Radix were revised, and its TLC identification method was established;Moisture limit of Bupleuri Smithii Radix was ≤10.0%, total ash limit was ≤9.0%, acid insoluble ash limit was ≤3.1%, alcohol-soluble extractive limit was ≥15%, total mass fraction limit of saikosaponin-a and saikosaponin-d was ≥0.2%. Conclusion: Quality standards of Bupleuri Smithii Radix was improved, it could be used revision of this Chinese materia medica.