Nghiên cứu xây dựng tiêu chuẩn cơ sở của dược liệu Hậu phác nam (Cinnamomum iners Reinw. ex Blume)

Abstract

Objective: Cinnamomum iners Reinw. ex Blume is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Vietnamese medicine. However, as of now, it is not included in the Vietnamese Pharmacopoeia V. In response to this gap, a foundational study was conducted to develop baseline standards for this herbal material. Methods: The study aimed to propose a comprehensive standard covering the following parameters: Macroscopic and microscopic description, powder microscopy, moisture content, foreign matter, total ash, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) identification, and extractable matter. Results: The outer surface of Cinnamomum iners stem bark is dark brown to grayish-brown, rough, with lenticels and leaf-scar marks; the inner surface is reddish-brown to dark brown. Transverse section and powder microscopy reveal characteristic tissues and cell types. Moisture content is not more than 13%, foreign matter not more than 1%, and total ash not more than 10%. The TLC chromatogram of the test solution exhibits spots of the same color and with the same Rf values as those in the chromatogram of the reference solution, and the extractable matter content must not be less than 4.0%, calculated based on the dried crude drug. Conclusion: This study serves as a significant first step in establishing a formal standard for this herbal medicine. The proposed specifications ensure better quality control, authentication, and enhanced value for this locally sourced medicinal herb.