Theme V: Drug analysis methods

The determination of extractables substances is done when there are no suitable methods to determine the active constituents of drugs by physical or physico-chemical processes or when is required by the Pharmacopoeia monograph.

Generally it determines extractable substances with water, ethanol and rarely with ether.

The method is based on the solubility of active substances in a set solvent, and when they are not known, in the pharmacological activity of the extract obtained with the solvent.

Visual examination and microscopic inspection of herbal drugs

Determination of foreign matter

Determination of microorganisms

Ash determination

Water determination

Thin-layer chromatography

Determination of volatile oils

Determination of tannins in herbal drugs