Dosage of indole alkaloids (vincamine, akuammine)

The quantification of indole alkaloids, and more specifically vincamine and akuammine, is an essential analytical tool for the characterization, quality control, and standardization of plant extracts and nutraceutical products. Indole alkaloids constitute a family of secondary metabolites of plant origin known for their marked biological effects, particularly on the central nervous system.

Vincamine, derived primarily from the periwinkle ( Vinca minor ), and akuammine, extracted from the seeds of Picralima nitida (akuamma), are used for their neuroactive properties. Their precise quantification is essential to ensure the safety, conformity, and reproducibility of products containing them.

Principle of analysis

Indole alkaloids are nitrogenous compounds with a complex chemical structure and high biological activity. Their assay relies on selective extraction from the plant matrix or formulated product, followed by chromatographic separation allowing for reliable identification and quantification of the target molecules.

Vincamine and akuammine can be measured individually or together depending on the analytical objectives, particularly in the context of quality control, standardization of extracts or qualification of raw materials.

Analytical methods used

The determination of indole alkaloids is carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS or LC-MS/MS).

HPLC allows for robust quantification of alkaloids in well-characterized matrices. However, LC-MS/MS is generally preferred for this type of compound due to its high specificity and sensitivity, particularly when concentrations are low or the matrix is ​​complex.

The choice of method is defined upstream by the YesWeLab scientific team in order to guarantee reliable, reproducible results adapted to industrial or regulatory requirements.

Measured parameters

This analysis makes it possible to determine the vincamine content, the akuammine content, as well as to compare different batches, suppliers or formulations.

Analytical results provide an objective basis for quality control, product development, and validation of technical specifications.

Matrices involved

The dosage of indole alkaloids applies to a wide range of matrices, including periwinkle or akuamma plant extracts, plant powders, food supplements, intermediate formulations and certain finished products.

Each matrix undergoes specific analytical preparation to limit interferences and ensure accurate and reproducible quantification of the targeted alkaloids.

Industrial applications

This analysis is widely used in the nutraceutical sector for quality control of raw materials, standardization of plant extracts, and supplier qualification. It is also used in the development and reformulation of neuroactive products to ensure consistent levels of active compounds.

In research and development, the determination of vincamine and akuammine makes it possible to compare different extraction methods, to evaluate the impact of transformation processes and to optimize the concentration of alkaloids of interest.

The analysis is also used in investigative procedures in cases of non-compliance, variation in analytical profile or suspicion of adulteration.

Sectors concerned

This service is primarily aimed at nutraceutical players, plant and plant-based ingredient sectors, as well as laboratories and design offices involved in the research and formulation of alkaloid-based products.

Quality, safety and compliance issues

Indole alkaloids have potent biological effects, necessitating rigorous control of their levels in finished products. Reliable dosing is essential to ensure safe formulations, adherence to usage recommendations, and accurate technical documentation.

Analytical characterization of vincamine and akuammine ensures traceability, reproducibility and quality of plant extracts used in nutraceuticals.

YesWeLab Expertise

YesWeLab relies on a rigorously selected network of partner laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited according to recognized standards such as ISO 17025 and COFRAC. Each project is analyzed by the YesWeLab scientific team to guide samples toward the analytical method best suited to the client's objectives and the specific constraints of the matrices.

Thanks to its digital platform, YesWeLab enables centralized analysis management, optimized sample tracking, and fast, secure access to analytical results. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have trusted YesWeLab for their physicochemical and nutraceutical analyses.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

The determination of indole alkaloids can be complemented by other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue in order to obtain a global characterization of plant extracts and nutraceutical products.

Measuring other alkaloids allows the evaluation to be broadened to include more complex alkaloid profiles.

LC-MS or LC-MS/MS analyses are proposed for the targeted quantification of many bioactive compounds of plant origin.

The measurement of polyphenols , flavonoids and other secondary metabolites allows the analysis of alkaloids to be included in a global approach to characterizing extracts.

Finally, nutritional and contaminant analyses can complement the assessment of the quality and safety of finished products.

For any quote request or to discuss your specific needs in indole alkaloid (vincamine, akuammine) dosage, contact the YesWeLab team now.