Determination of avicularin in Polygonum aviculare L. by square wave polarography.

A method for the determination of avicularin in Polygonum aviculare L. is described. Square wave polarography (SWP) with a static mercury drop electrode was used to observe the reduction of avicularin. The supporting electrolyte was an acetate buffer solution of pH 4. Avicularin gives a well-defined peak at a potential of -1.30 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). An excellent linear relationship was obtained between the concentration (1.20-3.59 x 10(-6) mol/L) and peak current. The method can be used to analyze small amounts of sample.