Simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolic acids and flavonoids for the quality control of Apocynum venetum L. leaves by HPLC–DAD–ESI–IT–TOF–MS and HPLC–DAD

A reliable method based on high performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector–electrospray ionization–ion trap–time of flight–mass spectrometry (HPLC–DAD–ESI–IT–TOF–MS) was developed for the identification of phenolic acids and flavonoids in Apocynum venetum L. leaves and its adulterant, Pocynum hendersonii (Hook. f.) Woodson leaves. A total of 21 compounds were identified or tentatively identified, including 4 phenolic acids and 17 flavonoids. 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid (3-CQA) and caffeic acid were detected for the first time in A. venetum leaves; 4-O-caffeoylquinic acid (4-CQA), 3-CQA, caffeic acid, quercetin-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-galactoside, quercetin-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-(6″-O-acetyl)-glucoside, and kaempferol-3-O-dihexoside were detected for the first time in P. hendersonii leaves. Cluster analysis was employed to analyze 24 batches of A. venetum leaves and 5 batches of P. hendersonii leaves collected from various regions in China. The analysis, which was based on the 21 compounds, indicated that profiles of these compounds were distinct between the two species, and among A. venetum leaf samples from different origins. 18 of these 21 compounds were selected as the markers and simultaneously analyzed by HPLC–DAD for the first time. The quantitative analytical method was validated and subsequently applied to the comprehensive quality evaluation of 24 batches of A. venetum leaves. [Display omitted] •IT–TOF to identify 21 compounds in Apocynum venetum and Pocynum hendersonii leaves.•Simultaneous determination of 18 compounds in A. venetum leaves firstly.•2 components were detected for the first time in A. venetum leaves.•8 components were detected for the first time in P. hendersonii leaves.•Cluster analysis to distinguish the two species, and habits of A. venetum leaves.