Rhein assay (anthraquinone / hydroxyanthracene)

Rhein analysis is an essential analytical test for the characterization, quality control, and regulatory compliance of plant extracts and plant-based products containing anthraquinone derivatives. Rhein belongs to the anthraquinone family, also known as hydroxyanthracenes, compounds naturally present in certain plants such as rhubarb ( Rheum spp. ), senna ( Senna spp. ), and aloe.

In herbal medicine and nutraceuticals, rhein is of particular interest due to the regulatory exposure limits applicable to hydroxyanthracenes . Its precise measurement is essential to ensure the safety of formulations, demonstrate product compliance, and meet the requirements of authorities and customers.

Principle of analysis

Rhein is a secondary metabolite of plant origin resulting from the transformation or hydrolysis of anthraquinone precursors. Its analysis relies on a suitable extraction from the plant matrix, followed by chromatographic separation allowing for reliable identification and quantification of the target compound.

Rhein assay allows either individual quantification of this molecule, or its integration into a more global approach to controlling hydroxyanthracenes, depending on the analytical objectives defined.

Analytical methods used

Rhein assay is performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), usually coupled with UV-visible or diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), or by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS or LC-MS/MS).

HPLC-DAD allows for robust and reproducible quantification of rhein in well-characterized matrices.
LC-MS is preferred when lower quantification limits are required, when the matrix is ​​complex, or when formal identification of rhein is necessary, particularly in formulated products.

The choice of method is defined upstream by the YesWeLab scientific team in order to guarantee the reliability of the results and their suitability with regulatory and industrial requirements.

Measured parameters

This analysis makes it possible to determine the rhein content, to assess compliance with the exposure thresholds applicable to hydroxyanthracenes, to compare different batches or suppliers and to verify the consistency of the composition over time.

Analytical results provide an objective basis for quality control, regulatory validation and securing technical files.

Matrices involved

Rhein assay applies to a wide range of matrices, including plant extracts, dry extracts, powders, capsules, tablets and other herbally formulated products containing anthraquinones.

Each matrix undergoes specific preparation to limit interferences and ensure accurate and reproducible quantification of rhein.

Industrial applications

This analysis is widely used in the nutraceutical and phytotherapy sectors for quality control of raw materials, standardization of plant extracts, and supplier qualification. It is also used in product development and reformulation, particularly to ensure compliance with regulatory limits for hydroxyanthracenes.

Rhein assay is also used in investigative procedures in cases of non-compliance, variation in analytical profile or during official controls.

Sectors concerned

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

Regulatory issues and safety

Hydroxyanthracenes are subject to regulatory restrictions due to their potential health effects. Rhein analysis is a key analytical tool for demonstrating product compliance, mitigating health risks, and ensuring safe market access.

Reliable analysis makes it possible to anticipate regulatory requirements, document quality records and meet the expectations of authorities and customers.

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 our 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 research firms have trusted YesWeLab for their physicochemical and nutritional analyses.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

Rhein analysis can be complemented by other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue to obtain a complete characterization of plant extracts and products containing anthraquinone or phenolic compounds.

The measurement of total hydroxyanthracenes allows for the assessment of overall exposure to anthraquinones in herbal products.

The measurement of emodin , aloe -emodin and chrysophanol completes the analysis of the rhein for a detailed characterization of anthraquinone profiles.

Analyses of polyphenols , flavonoids and tannins allow the measurement of rhein to be included in a global approach to the characterization of plant bioactive compounds.

HPLC and LC-MS or LC-MS/MS analyses are also offered for the separation and quantification of many active compounds of plant origin.

Finally, nutritional analyses allow the integration of rhein dosage into a comprehensive approach to the quality and compliance of nutraceutical products.

For any quote request or to discuss your specific needs in rhein and hydroxyanthracene assay, contact the YesWeLab team now.