HPTLC stands for high-performance thin-layer chromatography. It separates the compounds in a herb extract on a coated plate and shows them as a pattern of bands, a fingerprint that is typical of the plant.
It is used mainly to confirm botanical identity by comparing a sample with authenticated reference material run on the same plate. It is also good at spotting substitution and some adulteration.
How it works, in plain terms
If the sample shows the same pattern as the reference, identity is supported. Missing or extra bands suggest a different species, a different plant part or something added.
- A small amount of the herb is extracted with a solvent.
- The extract is applied as a band on a coated glass plate, next to reference samples.
- The plate is placed in a solvent that moves up the plate and separates the compounds.
- The plate is dried and often treated with a reagent so the bands become visible.
- The bands are viewed and photographed under white and ultraviolet light and compared.
When it is used
- Identity tests for raw herbs, cut herbs and powders.
- Checking for known adulterants or related species.
- Checking plant part, such as leaf in a root powder.
- Screening incoming lots before more costly tests.
- Pharmacopoeia identity tests, many of which use thin-layer chromatography.
What it does not do
HPTLC is mainly qualitative. It tells you what is there, not precisely how much. For marker content, such as withanolides in ashwagandha or sennosides in senna, labs usually use HPLC. It also does not test safety: heavy metals, pesticide residues and microbiology need separate tests.
Results depend on good reference material. Ask the lab what reference they use and where it comes from. A fingerprint compared with nothing proves little.
What to ask for on a report
For the wider picture, see botanical identity testing and what a lab certificate should show.
- The botanical name and plant part tested.
- The reference materials run alongside, and their source.
- The method or pharmacopoeia procedure followed.
- Plate images, not just the word complies.
- A clear conclusion on identity.
HPTLC and other methods together
Most labs use HPTLC as one tool among several. For a root powder, a lab might run HPTLC for identity, HPLC for the marker compound and microscopy to check for foreign plant tissue. For whole or cut herbs, macroscopic checks and microscopy may be enough with HPTLC as support.
Ask your lab which combination suits your herb and form. The right plan depends on the herb, its known adulterants and what your market requires.
Indian labs, including NABL-accredited ones, offer HPTLC for common Ayurvedic herbs. Check that the lab holds reference material for your herb before you send samples.
How we help
We arrange HPTLC identity tests with plate images at NABL-accredited labs on samples we draw ourselves, and share the original reports with you. Ask for a free sourcing review.