Analysis of the influence of sulfur-fumigation on the volatile components of Angelicae sinensis Radix by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry

BACKGROUND: Sulfur-fumigation of Angelicae sinensis Radix causes changes in the structure and composition of volatile components. These changes alter the curative effect and the quality of A. sinensis Radix. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC-TOFMS) was employed to investigate the influence of sulfur-fumigation on the volatile components, and to characterize and quantify the chemical composition of the volatile oil of A. sinensis Radix. RESULTS: The present study has shown that sulfur-fumigated A. sinensis Radix samples had significant loss of the main active compounds and a more destructive fingerprint profile compared to non-fumigated samples. CONCLUSION: From this study, it can be concluded that the combination of GC × GC and TOFMS has potential as a quality monitoring tool in herbal medicine and food processing industries.