Monitoring Volatile and Non-Volatile Salicylates in Filipendula ulmaria by Different Chromatographic Techniques

The use of salicylate containing herbs as analgesic and antirheumatic remedies can be traced back to ancient times. While salicaceen contains only derivatives of salicylalcohol, Filipendula ulmaria is characteristic for various forms of volatile and non-volatile salicylates. The main pharmacological effect of Filipendula ulmaria is due to its salicylic acid component, which is released via oxidation from various aglycones (e.g. salicylaldehyde, methylsalicylate) developed from glycosides through hydrolysis in the digestive system. Our current study is focussed on the determination of volatile and non-volatile salicylates in various parts and extracts of the plant, using different chromatographic techniques.