Contributions to the phytochemical study of Bidens tripartitae herba from Romania. I. Tannins.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDY OF BIDENS TRIPARTITAE HERBA FROM ROMANIA. I.TANNINS (Abstract): Aim: To analyze qualitatively and quantitatively tannins in the native plant, collected during the whole vegetation period from different areas of the country, and in its different organs (flower, stem, leaf). Material and methods: For quantitative analysis, the plant product was extracted by repeated maceration (3 days) with 80% methanol. Proanthocyanidins in the extract were quantified by spectro- photometric methods. Results: condensed tannins were present while hydrolyzed tannins were absent. Chromatographic analysis showed that tannins spectrum is similar in all plant organs and in plants collected at different times throughout the vegetation period. The di f- ferences are only quantitative. The maximum amount of tannins was found during the flo w- ering stage (10.32%). Conclusions: In terms of tannin content, flowering is the best time to collect. However, collection throughout the whole vegetation period is acceptable. Key- words: MEDICINAL PLANTS, BIDENS TRIPARTITA L., TANNIN.