Objective: To optimize the preparation process and to set up the quality standard of Ephedra sinica Dispensing Granules.
Methods: Nine experiments were carried out by L9 (3(4)) orthogonal design. Ephedra sinica Dispensing Granules was identified by TLC and the content of ephedrine was determined by HPLC.
Results: The optimal extraction process was as follows: the water that 10 times of Ephedra sinica, was decocted 3 times and each time was sustained for 1.5 hours. The linear relationship of ephedrine hydrochloride was at the range of 0.0081 - 0.1377 microg (r = 0.999 9). The average recovery was 100.25% ( RSD = 2.24%, n = 6).
Conclusion: The extraction process is scientific. The method is available with a good reproducibility and can control the quality of Ephedra sinica Dispensing Granules.