| Abstract:ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to develop a preparation process and establish a quality control method for Saposhnikoviae Radix decoction granules to achieve standardized production. Methods: Raw materials were pre-treated (cleaning, cutting). Morphology, particle size distribution, and the decoction yield of marker compounds (prim-O-glucosylcimifugin and 4’-O-β-glucosyl-5-O-methylvisamminol) were used as evaluation indexes to optimize the preparation process. An identification system integrating DNA barcoding (ITS2 sequence) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was established for authenticity verification. The total content of prim-O-glucosylcimifugin and 4’-O-β-glucosyl-5-O-methylvisamminol was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Quality changes over 6 months were assessed through accelerated (40°C at 75% relative humidity (RH)) and long-term (30°C at 60% RH) stability studies. Results: The optimized primary decoction piece processing yield was 86.2%. decoction granules were prepared by crushing material through a 5.0 mm screen, followed by sieving through 0.8 mm and 8.0 mm screens, yielding an average granulation rate of 83.1%. Compared with traditional decoction pieces, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) in extract yield, alcohol-soluble yield, or compound transfer rate at different time points during dissolution. Multi-batch verification confirmed no significant differences in extract yield, alcohol-soluble yield, extractives (P=0.07), marker compound content, or compound transfer rate. The relative deviations (RD) of marker compounds were less than 10.0% in stability tests. Conclusion: The preparation process for Saposhnikoviae Radix decoction granules is stable and controllable. The established quality control system is specific and sensitive. Based on evaluation indexes such as extract yield, alcohol-soluble yield, marker compound content, and transfer rate, the decoction granules demonstrated slightly higher average marker compound transfer compared to traditional decoction pieces, good stability, and superior adaptability to industrial production. This study provides a replicable model for intelligent dispensing and standardized production of Chinese herbal decoction pieces. |