Objective: To establish the grade evaluation standard for Buleuri Radix decoction pieces

and provide theoretical basis for building the grade standard for root and rhizome regular shape Chinese medicinal decoction pieces. Method: Compound quality constant is a comprehensive grade evaluation method for traditional Chinese medicine decoction pieces

which is based on but even better than a traditional way. This method was based on the quality constant

where the internal index and appearance character of Buleuri Radix decoction pieces were combined effectively by investigating the appearance character

volatile oil

extracts

saikosaponin a and d contents in traditional Chinese medicine decoction pieces. In this way

the evaluation method of compound quality constant was constructed to perfect and establish the grade standard of Buleuri Radix decoction pieces. Result: Twenty batches of different quality samples were collected and tested

and finally

19 qualified batches of them were chosen as researcher objects. The results revealed that the range of the compound quality constant of these samples was from 1.616 to 8.414 and Buleuri Radix decoction pieces could be divided into three grades:the compound quality constant of first grade was ≥ 7.871;the second grade was <7.871 but ≥ 5.602;while the third grade was <5.602. Conclusion: Compound quality constant can be used to scientifically

objectively and reasonably classify the decoction pieces

solve the problems existing in the relative quality constant evaluation methods

and provide a new method and a new model for the classification of multi-indicator components in traditional Chinese medicine decoction pieces

as well as a beneficial reference for further establishing and perfecting the comprehensive quality evaluation system of Buleuri Radix decoction pieces.