Analysis of Caffeic acid in Dandelion

Significance of the Topic

Analysis of bioactive phenolic compounds such as caffeic acid in plant matrices is critical for both quality control of herbal products and research into their health benefits. Caffeic acid exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making reliable quantification essential for ensuring product consistency and safety.

Objectives and Study Overview

The primary goal of this study is to develop and validate a reversed-phase HPLC method for the accurate determination of caffeic acid content in commercially available dandelion powder. The study compares standard mixtures and sample extracts to assess method performance.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample preparation involved ultrasonic-assisted extraction of 1 g dandelion powder with 5% formic acid in methanol for 30 minutes, followed by centrifugation to obtain a clear extract. Chromatographic analysis was performed under the following conditions:

• Shim-pack GIST C18-AQ column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm)
• Mobile phase: phosphate buffer (pH 3.9) : methanol (78.5:21.5, v/v)
• Flow rate: 1.0 mL/min; Column temperature: 40 °C; Injection volume: 10 µL
• Detection: UV at 323 nm

Used Instrumentation

• Reversed-phase HPLC system with Shim-pack GIST C18-AQ column
• Ultrasonic cleaner (250 W, 40 kHz)
• Centrifuge
• LabTotal™ vials for LC/LCMS

Main Results and Discussion

Calibration with a 10 µg/mL caffeic acid standard mix exhibited excellent linearity. Chromatograms of standard and dandelion extract displayed a distinct peak for caffeic acid with consistent retention time and minimal interference. The extraction recovery exceeded 95%, and method repeatability presented relative standard deviations below 2%.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Provides a robust and sensitive assay for caffeic acid quantification in herbal products.
• Simple sample preparation and reliable chromatographic separation ensure suitability for routine quality control.
• Can be adapted for broader phenolic profiling in research and industrial laboratories.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advancements in ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and coupling with mass spectrometry detection could further enhance sensitivity and reduce analysis time. Incorporation of green solvents and automation of sample handling will improve sustainability and throughput.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an efficient HPLC-UV method for determining caffeic acid in dandelion powder, delivering high sensitivity, precision, and recovery. The protocol is readily applicable for routine quality assessments of botanical products.