A precise and specific method for quick determination of sulfur fumigation for moutan cortex

摘要

Objective: Establish a quick, precise and specific method to determine whether the moutan cortex obtained from market is processed with sulfur;provide a reliable method for the scientific evaluation. Methods: Three methods, including acid-base titration method, high-performance liquid-chromatography (HPLC) method, and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-TOF-MS) method were used to detect whether 30 batches of samples were fumigated with sulfur. Results: The results of three methods were substantially the same. Fifteen batches were identified to have been processed with sulfur fumigation, while others were not. Conclusions: The HPLC method was found to be most appropriate for the determination of sulfur fumigation for moutan cortex.