Application of normal- and reversed-phase 2D TLC on a cyanopropyl-bonded polar stationary phase for separation of phenolic compounds from the flowers of Sambucus nigra L.

Two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography on a cyanopropyl-bonded polar stationary phases has been used to separate phenolic compounds occurring in Flos Sambuci L. The separation was realized by development of the chromatographic plate in two directions with different mobile phases in each direction. Optimum systems were selected by analysis of retention data obtained for a variety of concentrations of polar solvents in a non-polar diluent (n-hexane) for NP TLC and polar solvents in water for RP TLC, both on thin layers of cyanopropyl-bonded polar adsorbents. The first development was performed by with a non-aqueous mobile phase and the second with an aqueous mobile phase. Eight flavonoids and three phenolic acids were separated by use of the method described.