A validated method for quantitative determination of saponins in notoginseng (Panax notoginseng) using high-performance liquid chromatography with evaporative light-scattering detection

A gradient high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method with evaporative light-scattering detection (ELSD) for the determination of major saponins in a Chinese traditional herbal medicine, Panax notoginseng, is described. Samples were analysed by means of a reverse-phase column (Waters Spherisorb ODS-2, C-18) using acetonitrile and water under gradient conditions as the mobile phase over 60 min. The ELSD used was set at an evaporating temperature of 35 degrees C and pressurized air pressure of 3.4 bars. The detection limit (signal/noise > 3) of the saponins was 50 ng. The method was validated by inter- and intra-day assays and recovery tests.