Objective: To analyze the difference of HPLC fingerprint of Polygalae Radix with different commercial grades. Method: A total of 47 batches of Polygalae Radix with different commercial grades collected from four medicinal materials markets were measured for their diameters and doping percents.The fingerprint of Polygalae Radix were analyzed by HPLC and their similarities were calculated.Then

the control fingerprint of Polygalae Radix with different grades was established. Result: The similarity between the different batches of Tonghuo and the established control fingerprint of 47 batches of Polygalae Radix ranged from 0.925 to 0.996;the similarity between the different batches of Xiaotong and the control fingerprint ranged from 0.840 to 0.997;the similarity between the different batches of Zhongtong and control fingerprint ranged from 0.865 to 0.996;the similarity between the different batches of Datong and the control fingerprint ranged from 0.931 to 0.993. Conclusion: The traditional theory of'determination of quality through characters' experience has certain scientific basis.It is necessary to establish the standard of commercial grade related to intrinsic chemical composition and appearance for ensuring the consistency of the quality of Polygalae Radix with the same grade

and improving the accuracy of clinical use of Polygalae Radix.