Evaluation of Preparations of Natural Medicine by Means of a Special FluorescentTechnique

Overview

The present paper aims to find a method of comprehensive characterisation and definition ofcomplex mixtures. For this purpose the technique of spectral fingerprint shows most advantages.It has been applied to the definition of very similar herbal antitussic preparations containing anextract from the plantain plant (Plantago lanceolata). The synchronous fluorescent spectrum (Dl =15 nm), in contrast to the classic emission spectrum, can resolve the individual preparations. Thecomplete characteristic of the preparation is, however, provided only by the method of a specialfluorescent fingerprint, which developed from a combination of the technique of recording synchro-nous spectra with a programmably changeable difference in Dl and the computer processing ofgraphic records in the form of contour maps. The combination makes it possible to graphically defineand characterise complex mixtures, the exact composition of which may not be even known. Themethod can be used in the analysis of pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic and other products, in thecontrol of their quality, observance of the technological process, in the comparison of identicalproducts by different manufacturers as well as in revealing counterfeit brand products. Spectralfluorescent fingerprints – contour fluorescent maps can be stored in a database and they posses thesame informational value as fingerprints in criminological practice.

Key words:
synchronous spectrum – fluorescent fingerprint – contour maps –phytopharmaceuticals