LAUSR

ABSTRACT This study aims to provide detailed and comprehensive element profiles of the traditional Chinese medicine Polygalae Radix. Based on the element profiles, chemometric methods were used to distinguish the geo-herbs of Polygalae Radix from the non-geo-herbs. Thirty-three elements in 27 samples were analyzed. Three discrimination models were constructed and compared. The regression coefficient–partial least squares–discriminant analysis and variable importance in projection–discriminant analysis models exhibited better performance. Based on the selected discrimination models, the elements lanthanum, neodymium, europium, and holmium were indicated as characteristic factors that significantly contributed to the discrimination of herbs. The information has reference value for geo-herbalism research and the quality control of Polygalae Radix.