A systematic review on quality control of Epimedium sagittatum.

Currently, Epimedium Sagittatum is the mainstream Epimedium present in the market of China. It has the functions of tonifying kidney Yang, strengthening muscles and bones, and removing wind and dampness. It is mainly used in clinical practice to tonify kidney and strengthen Yang, which is one of the most potential and key Chinese medicines. At present, the lack of unified standards for cultivation, harvesting and processing of Epimedium has resulted in a wide variety of quality differences in the market. Based on literature review, this paper reviews the quality status of Epimedium, and summarizes the influences on quality control of Epimedium from six aspects, including variety, place of origin, cultivation, harvest time, harvest site and processing method. In order to improve the overall quality of Epimedium, it is suggested that systematic research should be conducted on planting, harvesting, processing and storage of Epimedium, and unified cultivation technical regulations should be formulated to meet the good agricultural practice in planting specifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]