Preparation of Vetas Ghana (a semisolid form of Salix alba L. stem bark aqueous extract) and its analysis by using high-performance thin-layer chromatography and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry

BACKGROUND: Vetas Ghana is a semi-solid prepared from the aqueous extract of stem bark of Salix alba L. (Vetas). Vetas Ghana is an important Ayurvedic intermediate used in various herbal and cosmetic formulations. There is no advance analysis of Vetas Ghana preparation reported yet. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this work was to prepare Vetas Ghana and to study phytochemicals by using advanced analytical instruments such as high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and tandem liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS/MS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Vetas Ghana was analyzed by physicochemical parameters such as loss on drying, pH, total ash, acid insoluble ash, total soluble solids, and its major metabolites were checked by using advanced chromatographic tools such as HPTLC and LC-QTOF-MS/MS. RESULTS: In comparison of Vetas with Vetas Ghana, drastic changes in the parameters such as pH, and ash (total and acid insoluble) were observed. In the HPTLC study, after derivatization marker compound epicatechin is detectable in Vetas and Vetas Ghana. LC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis of Vetas and Vetas Ghana reveals the presence of eight major metabolites including the presence of marker compound epicatechin. CONCLUSIONS: Vetas Ghana was prepared in in-house pharmacy and phytochemicals were detected by using HPTLC and LC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis, where biomarkers like epicatechin are identified including other biomarkers such as salicin and isosalicin.