Alkylamides determination

Alkylamide analysis allows for the evaluation of the content of bioactive compounds characteristic of certain medicinal plants, notably echinacea ( Echinacea purpurea , Echinacea angustifolia ). These lipophilic molecules play an important role in the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activity of these plant extracts. Their quantification is essential to guarantee the quality, traceability, and reproducibility of products used in nutraceutical or phytotherapeutic applications.

The analysis is carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS), two reference techniques for the identification and accurate quantification of alkylamides in complex matrices.

Principle and operation of the method

The assay is based on the selective extraction of alkylamides from plant matrices such as dry extracts, powders, capsules, or hydroalcoholic solutions. The sample is then injected into an HPLC or LC-MS system.

• HPLC -DAD (diode array detection) allows efficient separation and reliable quantification based on the specific absorbance of alkylamides.
• LC -MS offers superior sensitivity and specificity, allowing each compound to be identified by its mass spectrum.

These methods guarantee precise quantification, essential for quality control and standardization of plant extracts used in nutraceutical products.

Analytical performance and related analyses

Analysis by HPLC and LC-MS offers several advantages:

• High sensitivity for the detection of alkylamides even at low concentrations.
• Specific identification of the different alkylamides present in an extract.
• Method suitable for a wide variety of plant or formulated matrices.

For a complete characterization of echinacea extracts and other bioactive plants, this analysis can be combined with:

• the dosage of total polyphenols ,
• flavonoid dosage ,
• the dosage of phenolic acids ,
• or the determination of volatile compounds by GC-MS .

These additional analyses make it possible to obtain a complete chemical signature of the plant extracts and to enhance their functional properties.

Applications and areas of use

Alkylamide analysis is primarily used in the nutraceutical and medicinal plant :

• Quality control of echinacea extracts : verification of alkylamide content to guarantee the efficacy and conformity of food supplements.
• Research and development : optimization of extraction processes and evaluation of the stability of active ingredients over time.
• Production of standardized formulations : validation of batches of plant-based raw materials before incorporation into finished products.
• Traceability and regulatory compliance : certification of products containing plant extracts with immunomodulatory activity.

These analyses contribute to the scientific and commercial valorization of natural ingredients rich in alkylamides, by guaranteeing the consistency of biological properties from one batch to another.

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of expert partner laboratories specializing in phytochemical analysis, accredited to ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards, selected based on the matrix and the most relevant method (HPLC, LC-MS). Each request is reviewed to direct the sample to the laboratory best equipped for the type of product and the expected concentrations.

Thanks to its digital analysis platform, YesWeLab simplifies analysis management: requesting quotes, sending samples, tracking, and receiving results. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, formulators, and research laboratories have trusted YesWeLab for the characterization and validation of their bioactive plant extracts.

For any inquiries regarding alkylamide analysis, please contact our scientific team for a personalized quote and support tailored to your analytical objectives.