Analysis of natural medicines by micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) - Determination of calycosin in Astragali Radix

We previously reported a HPLC identification method for Astragali Radix and its fluid extract using calycosin as a marker substance. However, it took about 40 min for one run using gradient elution. Therefore, we alternativel y employed capillary electrophoresis (CE) for the analysis of calycosin in those materials. As a result, calycosin was clearly separated from the othe r components in Astragali Radix and its fluid extract by micellar electroki netic chromatography (MEKC) mode with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) within 5 min. Then we determined the content of calycosin in a drinkable preparatio n. Validation for the developed method was also performed in accordance wit h the ICH guideline.