Phytochemical Study from Sonchus arvensis L. Leaves for Standardizing Traditional Medicine Extract

Sonchus arvensis L. leaves is empirically used as a traditional medicine for asthma, cough, anti-inflammation and diuretic [1,2]. To ensure quality through identification and standardization of its extract, fingerprint/phytochemical study is needed. In this research, the phytochemical study was carried out by TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography) scanner and HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography). From the results, n-hexane extract showed a better separation with toluen: ethyl acetate (93:7 v/v) and had specific retention factor 0.80; 1.30; 2.18 (254nm) and 0.88; 1.29; 2.14 (366nm). Chloroform extract showed specific retention factor 1.13; 1.30; 2.14 (254nm) and 0.88; 1.29; 2.14 (366nm). Otherwise, clear separation of ethyl acetate extract was shown in chloroform: toluen: ethanol (4:4:1 v/v/v) with specific retention factor 0.98; 1.44; 1.9; 2.34; 2.49 (254nm) and 0.98; 1.84; 1.95; 2.34; 2.50 (366nm). From HPLC chromatogram at 254nm, using acetonitrile-phosporic acid mixture showed specific retention time at 2.46; 4.09; 4.83; 7.69; 10.02; 11.06; 11.73 minute for hexane extract and 3.66; 5.84; 6.98 minute for ethyl acetate extract. In conclusion, the specific retention time from both extracts can be used as fingerprint for standardization of traditional medicine extract of Sonchus arvensis leaves.

References: 1. Foster S. & Duke J.A (1995) A Field Guide to Medicinal Plants. Eastern and Central N. America. Houghton Mifflin Co., ISBN 0395467225.

2. Xu et al. (2008) Food Chemistry 111: 92–97.