Analysis of Crude Drugs Using Reversed-Phase TLC/Scanning Densitometry (I) Identification of Saiko, Akamegasiwa and Sanshuyu

We performed identification tests of crude drugs (saiko, akamegasiwa, and sanshuyu) by reversed-phase TLC/scanning densitometry. Saikosaponin a, c, and d could be separated from sample solutions of saiko using a 2-butanone/methanol /water (1: 1: 1) solvent system. Bergenin could be separated from sample solutions of akamegasiwa using a water/ methanol/acetonitrile (10: 3: 2) solvent system. Loganin could be separated from sample solutions of sanshuyu using a water/acetonitrile (5: 2) solvent system. To identify these components, ultraviolet absorption spectra of spots developed on the reversed-phase TLC plates were measured using a scanning densitometer. As a result, the UV absorption spectra and maximum wavelengths of sample solutions of crude drugs were consistent with those of the standard solutions.