Comparison of Different Analytical HPLCColumns for Determination ofFurocoumarins in Heracleum candicansFruits

摘要

Columns used in HPLC play a vital role, as the efficiency of separation and resolution determines the quantification of the markers. Heracleum candicans Wall, ex DC. (Apiaceae) is used extensively in the Indian system of medicines, being a rich source of furocoumarins, extensively used in the pharmaceutical industry for their photosensitizing property. Thus, keeping in view the importance of the plant, a comparison of the analytical HPLC columns has been carried out for the quality evaluation of H. candicans using furocoumarins viz. heraclenol and bergapten as markers. Four analytical columns (2 RP-8 and 2 RP-18) with different ligand chemistry were used for the analysis. The results indicate that the monolithic column, RP-18e has better efficiency in terms of time and cost, whereas the classical RP-18 column has better separation efficiency of the markers used, though there are some merged peaks. Also, by altering the flow rate and gradient separation, better resolution was achieved in monolithic columns. Thus, monolithic columns can be used for the quality control as it reduces the time and cost and are specific.