Quantitative analysis and stability of p-hydroxybenzyl hydrogen sulfite in sulfur-fumigated Gastrodiae Rhizoma

Abstract

Studies on the characteristic chemical markers of sulfur fumigation have become an effective auxiliary way for quality control of traditional Chinese medicine. This study established a quantitative analysis method for the determination of p-hydroxybenzyl hydrogen sulfite (p-HS) in Gastrodiae Rhizoma (GR) based on UPLC-MS/MS. Then, 37 batches of GR were screened, and the results showed that 27 batches of them were sulfur-fumigated. Especially, the GR samples in Yunnan producing areas were sulfur-fumigated more seriously. Based on the stability of p-HS after different storage time and heat treatment methods, it was found that the content of p-HS was stable and reliable in the storage period of 8 months and under normal heat treatment (50, 60, 70, 80 °C) conditions. In conclusion, this study shows a high sensitivity, good selectivity and good stability of p-HS, which can provide reference for the quality control and sulfur fumigation screening of GR.