Abstract: Objective To establish a quantitative analysis of multi-components by single mark (QAMS) for determining the contents of three compositions (limonin, nomilin, obacunone) from orange kernels, salt citri reticulatae semen and their granule, and verify the feasibility and applicability of this method in quality control. Methods Limonin was used as the internal reference substance. The HPLC analysis was performed on a Waters Symmetry C₁₈ (4.6×250 mm, 5 μm) column with a mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile and water (45∶55) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min^-1. The column temperature was maintained at 35 ℃, and the detection wavelength was set at 220 nm. Results The relative correction factors of Limonin, nomilin and obacunone were established, without significant difference between the calculated values by QAMS and measured valves. Conclusion The experimental QAMS method can accurately determine the contents of the three compositions in citri reticulatae semen, and can be used in the multi-index evaluation in orange kernels.

Key words: quantitative analysis of multi-compounds by single-marker, relative correction factor, limonin, citri reticulatae semen, quality evaluation