A TLC method for the analysis of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) saponins

Abstract

A method is described which enables both the total saponin content and composition to be assayed in quinoa plant tissue. The saponin composition has been determined according to the three main groups of saponins found in quinoa which contain oleanolic acid, hederagenin and phytolaccagenic acid as the aglycone in each group. The method has been used to measure the saponin content of 15 ecotypes being used in a breeding programme in the UK and to compare the saponins present in sweet and bitter varieties. © 1994.