Abstract
This study compared Bojungikgi-tang (BIT) and Yukmijihwang-tang (YJT) decoctions produced using the extractors made of various materials, such as glass, earthenware, and stainless steel, for 60, 90, and 120 min. The extraction yield was measured and the amounts of marker compounds in decoctions were determined by quantitative analysis using high performance liquid chromatography. The extraction yields of BIT decoctions produced by three extractors were not significantly different, whereas the extraction yield of YJT produced using glass extractor was significantly higher than that of YJT produced using earthenware extractor after 90 min. The amounts of most marker compounds were highest in BIT decoctions produced using glass extractor. However, variations of the amounts of marker compounds were observed in YJT decoctions and the volatile compound was not easily vaporized in YJT decoction produced using earthenware extractor. This study suggests that the extractor made of various materials may affect the extraction efficiency and the contents of marker compounds, especially in the decoction produced using earthenware extractor, although the results were dependent on the characteristics of herbal formula.