Research Advances in Modern Analytical Techniques for Quality Control and Clinical Application of Ganmai Dazao Decoction

Abstract

Ganmai Dazao Decoction, originating from “Jin Gui Yao Lue” (Synopsis of the Golden Chamber), is a classical prescription for treating visceral agitation. Composed of three medicinal and edible substances—licorice (Gancao), wheat (Xiaomai), and jujube (Dazao), it functions to nourish the heart and calm the mind, harmonize the middle burner and regulate Qi, and alleviate urgency and restlessness. As its clinical application has expanded from traditional emotional disorders to neurological, endocrine, and various psychosomatic diseases, establishing a scientifically precise quality control system and deeply elucidating its pharmacodynamic material basis and mechanism of action have become critical tasks. Modern analytical methods, typified by chromatography, spectroscopy, and their hyphenated techniques, with their high sensitivity, high resolution, and powerful substance characterization capabilities, have become the core driving force for standardizing the quality control and modernizing the clinical application research of this formula. This paper systematically reviews the progress of the aforementioned analytical techniques and chemometrics in interpreting the chemical composition, establishing fingerprint profiles, controlling process quality, and researching the pharmacodynamic material basis of Ganmai Dazao Decoction. Furthermore, it discusses integrated approaches combining analytical techniques with pharmacology and clinical medicine to reveal mechanisms of action and explore therapeutic biomarkers. Finally, it provides an outlook on future directions and challenges, including technological integration and innovation, standardization of whole-process quality control systems, and evidence-based research aimed at internationalization.