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HPLC‐MS trace analysis of atropine in Lycium barbarum berries
Author(s) -
Adams Michael,
Wiedenmann Matthias,
Tittel Gerolf,
Bauer Rudolf
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
phytochemical analysis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.574
H-Index - 72
eISSN - 1099-1565
pISSN - 0958-0344
DOI - 10.1002/pca.915
Subject(s) - chemistry , atropine , lycium , high performance liquid chromatography , traditional medicine , chromatography , anesthesia , medicine , alternative medicine , pathology
Abstract The dried ripe fruits of Barbary wolfberry, Lycium barbarum L. are widely used in China for medicinal purposes and as a functional food. Previous investigations reported to have found atropine in Barbary wolfberries from India. These results have been questioned. Since then, however, there has been a discussion on whether the berries are suitable for human consumption. In order to determine the content of atropine, we have analysed eight samples of berries from China and Thailand for traces of atropine, using highly selective and sensitive HPLC‐MS methods. Atropine was found in all examined samples in concentrations of maximally 19 ppb (w/w). Therefore, the content is far below toxic levels. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.