In this work

the effects of degradation time

temperature

and pH value on the degradation of Salvianolic acid B in aqueous solution were determined. Higher pH values

higher extraction temperature

and longer extraction time led to more degradation of Salvianolic acid B. Danshensu concentration increased as Salvianolic acid B degraded. A mechanism model was developed considering the degradation of Salvianolic acid E and lithospermic acid

which were two degradation products of Salvianolic acid B. The reverse reactions of Salvianolic acid B degradation were also considered. Degradation kinetic constants were calibrated. The degradation kinetics of Salvianolic acid B

lithospermic acid

and Danshensu in a

Salvia miltiorrhiza

extract aqueous solution were predicted using the mechanism model. The predicted concentrations agreed well with the experimental results. This model was developed using degradation data obtained from simple composition systems

but it can be applied in a complex botanical mixture with high prediction accuracy.