• Korean Journal of Medicinal Crop Science
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• v.27 no.5
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• pp.330-338
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• 2019

Background: This study was conducted to compare the physicochemical properties of 12 different cultivars of Rehmannia glutinosa, a plant used in Korean traditional herbal medicine. Method and Results: We investigated the following 12 cultivars of R. glutinosa; Jihwang1, Goryeo, Daegyung, Gogang, Togang, Dagang, Wongang, Yeongang, Hwanggang, Dahwang, Segang and Chunggang. We measured water content, chromaticity, hardness, active components levels, and antioxidant activity. Our results showed that Togang has the lowest water content and the highest yield. The catalpol content was the highest in Togang (40.50 mg/g) and the lowest in Chunggang (22.17 mg/g). The aucubin content was the highest in Hwanggang (0.28 mg/g). Chunggang had the lowest aucubin content, but the highest level of verbascoside. Total flavonoid and total polyphenol were the highest in Daegyung and Chunggang, respectively. There was a strong correlation between the total flavonoid and total polyphenol (r = 0.89) content. Conclusions: There were significant differences in physicochemical properties among 12 cultivars. These properties will affect suitability for processing and final product quality. We therefore suggest the selection of appropriate cultivars for different uses.