Bergenin determination in different extracts by high-performance thin-layer chromatographic densitometry

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• Bergenia ligulata (Pashanbhed) is a medicinal plant used for kidney and liver disorders.
• Its rhizome is often adulterated, necessitating quality control measures.
• Bergenin is the key active metabolite in B. ligulata.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatographic (HPTLC) method for quantifying bergenin.
• To ensure the quality control of Bergenia ligulata and its traditional formulations.
• To detect adulterants in herbal products.

Main Methods:

• A sensitive HPTLC method was developed using precoated silica gel plates.
• Chloroform: methanol: acetic acid (8:1:1, v/v/v) served as the mobile phase.
• Quantification was performed by densitometry at 276 nm.

Main Results:

• The retention factor (Rf) of bergenin was 0.28 ± 0.03.
• Linearity was confirmed in the range of 200-5000 ng (r² = 0.999).
• Bergenin content was 5.51 ± 0.14% in methanolic extract and 5.76 ± 0.16% in acetone extract.

Conclusions:

• The developed HPTLC method is suitable for quality control and standardization.
• This method can effectively identify adulterants in B. ligulata and its formulations.
• Ensures the authenticity and therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicines.