UPLC/Q-TOF-MS^E based analysis of chemical composition of Banxia Xiexin decoction

In order to clarify the chemical composition and source of Banxia Xiexin decoction quickly and comprehensively, whole and individual herbs of Banxia Xiexin decoction were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS^E).  Under identical experiment conditions, chromatography results were compared between experiment groups.  Based on the Q-TOF-MS^E analysis, 74 peaks were identified on line.  The herbal sources of these peaks were assigned.  The results implied that flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, alkaloids and glycosides were the main components in effective part of Banxia Xiexin decoction.  The method established is simple and rapid for elucidation the constituents of Banxia Xiexin decoction and the results could be used for the quality control of Banxia Xiexin decoction.