山椒의 基原식물과 이물 규격에 관한 연구

Abstract

Objectives : This study aims to examine validity of the following guideline for Zanthoxyli Pericarpium in the Korean Pharmacopoeia regarding foreign materials: “the seeds of Zanthoxyli Pericarpium that are mixed should not exceed 20%.” Methods : Varied compliance guidelines for and original plants of Zanthoxyli Pericarpium across countries were compared and contrasted. In order to do this, pharmacopoeias from a number of different countries including Korea were used as references. Results : The weights including seed parts were Z. piperitum 3.48g, Z. schinifolium 2.94g, and Z. bungeanum 2.16g; while the weights of peel parts were Z. piperitum 1.45g, Z. schinifolium 1.69g, and Z. bungeanum 0.98g. In terms of weight, Z. piperitum was the heaviest with its entire part including the seed, whereas Z. schinifolium was the heaviest with its peel part. The proportions of each seed in the whole part were Z. piperitum 58.33%, Z. schinifolium 42.52%, and Z. bungeanum 54.63%. Considering these figures , including seed parts in the guideline up to 20% is inappropriate; however, this guideline is inevitable in order to use seed parts for medicinal purpose. Conclusion : In this article, the author argues if any changes were to made on the guideline for Zanthoxyli Pericarpium with respect to foreign materials – “the seeds of Zanthoxyli Pericarpium that are mixed should not exceed 20%” – its seed part should firsthand be separated from its peel part and be designated as one kind of medicine. Then, revisions on the foreign materials compliance guidelines for Zanthoxyli Pericarpium should also be made.