Simultaneous UPLC analysis of three major flavonoids in granule decoctions of Fructus aurantii-type formulae

A simple, rapid, and sensitive liquid chromatographic method has been established for the simultaneous analysis of three compounds (narirutin, hesperidin and naringin), in granule decoctions of Fructus Aurantii-type formulae. The compounds were separated in less than 10 min using a C18 column with gradient elution using (A) acetonitrile, (B) water, and (C) acetic acid at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min, and with a PDA detector. The method was validated for specificity, accuracy, precision, and limits of detection. Good linear regression data (r2 > 0.9980) were obtained for all the calibration plots within the ranges tested. The method is an attractive alternative for quality control and clinical monitor of granule decoctions of Fructus Aurantii-type formulae.