Applications of Raman spectroscopy in herbal medicine |
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Authors: | Chia-Chi Huang |
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Institution: | 1. Institute of Food Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan;2. Center for Food and Biomolecules, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan |
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Abstract: | Raman spectroscopic techniques are a group of chemical fingerprint detection methods based on molecular vibrational spectroscopy. They are compatible with aqueous solutions and are time saving, nondestructive, and highly informative. With complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) becoming increasingly popular, more people are consuming natural herbal medicines. Thus, chemical fingerprints of herbal medicines are investigated to determine the content of these products. In this study, I review the different types of Raman spectroscopic techniques used in fingerprinting herbal medicines, including dispersive Raman spectroscopy, resonance Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform (FT)–Raman spectroscopy, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy, and confocal/microscopic Raman spectroscopy. Lab-grade Raman spectroscopy instruments help detect the chemical components of herbal medicines effectively and accurately without the need for complicated separation and extraction procedures. In addition, portable Raman spectroscopy instruments could be used to monitor the health and safety compliance of herbal products in the consumer market. |
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Keywords: | herbal medicine dispersive Raman spectroscopy resonance Raman spectroscopy FT-Raman spectroscopy surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy confocal Raman spectroscopy |
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