Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 11, 2025

A Generalized Method for Determining Free Soluble Phenolic Acid Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Cereals and Legumes
Published on: June 10, 2022
[Effect of drying processing methods on different specifications of Sophorae Flos based on comprehensive statistical
Ji-Rui Wang1, Jun Tan1, Long-Yun Li1
1Third-Class Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Chemistry,National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Resources,Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica Chongqing 400065,China Chongqing Sub-center of National Resources Center for Chinese Materia Medica,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences Chongqing 400065,China.
Selecting optimal drying methods for Sophorae Flos is crucial for preserving its quality. Steaming followed by 60°C drying suits flower buds and half-open types, while 60°C hot-air drying is best for blooming types.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacognosy and Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Plant Science
- Food Science and Technology
Background:
- Sophorae Flos quality is influenced by drying methods and sample specifications.
- Different drying techniques can impact the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of Sophorae Flos.
- Standardizing Sophorae Flos specifications is essential for consistent quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of six drying methods on three Sophorae Flos specifications.
- To identify the most suitable drying methods for each Sophorae Flos specification.
- To provide data for optimizing Sophorae Flos processing and classification.
Main Methods:
- Categorization of Sophorae Flos into flower bud (HL), half-open (BK), and blooming (SK) types.
- Application of shade-drying, sun-drying, hot-air drying (60°C and 105°C), and steaming-assisted drying (60°C) methods.
- Quantification of total flavonoids, rutin, quercetin, isorhamnetin, and antioxidant activities (FRAP, DPPH, ABTS) using UV, HPLC, and colorimetry.
- Comprehensive quality evaluation using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Cluster Analysis (CA), and correlation analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in quality outcomes were observed based on drying methods and Sophorae Flos specifications.
- Steaming followed by 60°C drying proved optimal for HL and BK types.
- 60°C hot-air drying was most effective for the SK type.
- High (105°C hot-air) and low (25°C shade-drying) temperatures negatively impacted quality.
- Distinct variations in chemical profiles and antioxidant capacities were noted among the three specifications.
Conclusions:
- The optimal drying method for Sophorae Flos depends on its developmental stage (specification).
- Steaming-assisted drying (60°C) is recommended for HL and BK types, while hot-air drying (60°C) is suitable for SK type.
- Controlling Sophorae Flos specifications is vital for ensuring uniform quality and efficacy.
- This study offers valuable insights for selecting appropriate drying techniques and classifying Sophorae Flos medicinal materials.

