Qualitative and quantitative analyses of aloe-emodin, rhein, and emodin in qi yin granules by high-performance thin-layer chromatography

The aim of this study was to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses of aloe-emodin, rhein, and emodin in three prepared samples of compound qi yin granules by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and to establish an analytical method. TLC was used to qualitatively analyze the three major components of the compound: aloe-emodin, rhein, and emodin. HPTLC was performed to determine the contents of the three components. HPTLC analysis showed that using Anhui Liangchen high-efficiency silica gel G plate was the optimal stationary phase and the upper layer solution of a petroleum ether-ethyl acetate-formic acid (15.5:5:1, V/V) mixed solution was the optimal developing agent. The composition of the samples for testing was basically the same, but the content was different. In summary, this study used HPTLC to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze aloe-emodin, rhein, and emodin in compound qi yin granules. It can lay the foundation for improving the quality control and standards of compound qi yin granules.