MEKC analysis of different Echinacea species

The distribution pattern of caffeic acid derivatives in Echinacea species is complex, and problems with the identity of each drug have been recognized. Micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) has been applied to define the fingerprints of Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea, and their mixtures. The results obtained evidence that MEKC is a valuable tool for the characterization of these drugs.