| Four ginseng authentication methods were examined for the species (Araliaceae), P. quinquefolium ('American'), P. ginseng ('Korean'), and Eleutherococcus senticosus ('Siberian'). Traditional methods, including microscopy, chemical spot-tests, and TLC were performed. Traditional techniques were expedient for genus identification, however, were not useful in species differentiation. Ginsenoside profile analysis by HPLC was effective for Panax spp. of various dosage forms. Differentiation was based on presence of ginsenoside Rf and percent-area ratios of Rb1:Rc and Rb2:Rd. Direct DNA sequence analysis of the rRNA ITS region revealed a four base-pair variation for P. ginseng and P. quinquefolium, providing unambiguous differentiation. RAPD-PCR was a faster but less reliable method of differentiation. Cluster analysis of integrated component data for C18:1 and C18:2 FAMEs using GC was used for differentiation. Genetic and FAMEs analysis was limited to dosage forms containing cellular material. TLC, genetic analysis, and FAME analysis were suitable for E. senticosus differentiation. The most effective technique for commercial ginseng product analysis is dependent on suspected identity, dosage form, purity, formulation and detail of information desired. |
