Quality control and analytical test method for Taxus baccata tincture preparation

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Pharmacognosy
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• The German Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia (HAB 2009) monographs Taxus baccata L. tincture.
• Current identification tests using Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) may require modernization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a quali-quantitative analysis of Taxus tincture using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detection and Mass Spectrometry (HPLC/DAD/MS).
• To optimize a rapid, reproducible analytical method for herbal drugs and tinctures prepared in retail settings.
• To ensure the safety and efficacy of Taxus preparations through validated analysis.

Main Methods:

• Quali-quantitative analysis of Taxus tincture utilizing HPLC/DAD/MS.
• Characterization of specific polyphenolic compounds, including hydroxycinnamic derivatives and flavonoids.
• Optimization of a preparation method based on the official German Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia (HAB).

Main Results:

• Identified and quantified four hydroxycinnamic derivatives (0.85 mg/mL) and four flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol 3-O-rutinosides and xylosyl glucosides).
• Determined the total polyphenol content to be 1.265 mg/mL of tincture.
• Developed a validated and robust analytical procedure.

Conclusions:

• The optimized HPLC/DAD/MS method provides a reliable tool for the analysis of Taxus tincture.
• This method ensures the quality, safety, and efficacy of homeopathic Taxus preparations.
• The procedure offers a quick response regarding compound composition in herbal drug preparations.