Cinchonine (quinoline alkaloid) assay

Cinchonine is a natural alkaloid extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree ( Cinchona spp. ), a plant historically used for its fever-reducing and antimalarial properties. Structurally related to quinine, cinchonine is less well-known, but it plays an important role in the chemical characterization of cinchona-based botanical extracts. It is also being studied for its antioxidant and secondary antimalarial properties, as well as its potential in nutraceutical formulations.

Cinchonine measurement is essential in several industrial and scientific contexts:

• Standardization of quinine extracts or derivative products
• Verification of the quality and purity of plant-based raw materials
• Traceability of food supplements or products based on alkaloids
• Compliance with regulations on alkaloids and bitter substances
• Detection of adulteration or alteration of natural extracts

Proposed analytical methods

Cinchonine analysis is performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS or LC-MS/MS), depending on the matrix to be analyzed and the level of sensitivity required.

• HPLC-DAD : A method commonly used for the separation and quantification of major alkaloids in plant extracts. It allows for reliable qualitative monitoring.
• LC-MS/MS : Recommended for complex matrices or multi-component extracts. Offers high specificity and increased sensitivity for detecting cinchonine even at low concentrations.

These methods allow for precise and reproducible quantification, in accordance with the quality requirements of manufacturers of food supplements, active ingredients or botanical raw materials.

Analyzable matrices

• Dry extracts of quinine
• Plant-based raw materials (powders, barks, hydroalcoholic extracts)
• Quinine-based food supplements
• Standardized products in quinoline alkaloids

Industrial applications

• Formulation of food supplements based on quinine
• Search for natural antioxidant or bitter active ingredients
• Purity analysis and traceability of plant-based ingredients
• Assessment of conformity to plant protection product standards
• Development of new ranges of nutraceutical ingredients derived from medicinal plants

Why choose YesWeLab?

At YesWeLab, we connect you to a network of accredited laboratories specializing in the analysis of phytochemical compounds. Our partners are selected according to strict quality criteria (ISO 17025 and COFRAC accreditations) and their analytical expertise in HPLC and LC-MS.

Our digital platform allows you to centralize your analytical needs, manage your samples, and easily receive your results. Our scientific team will assist you in defining the most suitable method for your objectives (R&D, quality control, regulatory compliance).

Recommended internal links

To learn more, you can also consult:

• Quinine dosage : an alkaloid related to cinchonine, used in pharmacopoeia and nutraceuticals

Tailored support

Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting manufacturers, formulators, and distributors in managing their analyses. Whether it's ensuring batch compliance, validating an active ingredient, or developing a new product, our team assists you every step of the way. Contact us for a quote or to discuss your specific needs.