Latin name: Bupleurum chinense DC.
Used part: dried root.
Specification: 10:1,5:1
Test Method: TLC
Appearance: Brown yellow fine powder
Odour & Taste: Characteristic
Solubility: Soluble in water partially
Active ingredient: Saikosaponins A,B,C,D
Molecular formula: C42H68O13
Molecular weight: 780.99
Testing index:
Loss on drying : 5% Max
Ash : 5% Max
Heavy metal : 10ppm Max
As: 1ppm Max
Microbiological Control :
Total Plate Count: 1000CFU/g max
Yeast & Mold: 100CFU/g max
E.Coli: Negative
Salmonella: Negative
Description :
Bupleurum grows in China and is cultivated throughout the central and eastern parts of that country. Bupleurum is also found in other parts of Asia and in Europe. Bupleurum is propagated from seed in spring or by root division in autumn and requires well-drained soil and plenty of sun. The root is unearthed in spring and autumn. Distribution mainly in Chinese provinces such as Hebei, Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Henan and Shanxi.
Major chemical constituents: The major constituents are triterpene saponins, including saikosaponins（C42H68O13;780.99） A, B1–4, D, E, F and H and related compounds including saikogenins A–G (5, 14). Two biologically active polysaccharides, bupleurans 2IIb and 2IIc, have also been isolated from the roots of B. falcatum (15, 16). Representative structures of saikosaponins are presented in the figure.
