Abstract: Objective To describe the history of the medicinal use of Peucedanum Praeruptorum Dunn (PD), its chemical composition, efficacy, areas of production, market demands and quality control and to provide reference for its development, utilization and quality control. Methods Based on the reports available, the medicinal use of PD and its key chemical constituents were traced, and the traditional and modern pharmacology of PD was elaborated in terms of chemistry and pharmacology. The areas of production, chief planting areas, market demands and production of PD were analyzed. The current standard for PD and problems with the quality were discussed. Results PD had a long history of medicinal use and plenty of pharmacological activities, whose chemical components included simple coumarin, furan coumarin and pyranocoumarin. Zhejiang, Anhui and Jiangxi were important areas of production of PD. There was large-scale cultivation in Chongqing, Guizhou and elsewhere. The current market was dominated by domestic species and simulated wild products, and the wild resources were diminishing. The main reason for defects of the product was the presence of Praeruptorin B. Analysis of Praeruptorin A and Praeruptorin B suggested that environmental geography, extraction, and different morphologies made a huge difference to the quality of PD. Conclusion The basic profile and determinants of quality of PD have been explored. It is of great significance to promote the sustainable use and industrial development of the plant.

Key words: Peucedanum Praeruptorum Dunn, Quality Control, Praeruptorin A, Praeruptorin B, Simple Coumarin, Furan Coumarin, Quality Standard, Production Areas