OBJECTIVE  To analyze and compare the blood-entry components of single decoction and combined decoction of Cinnamomi Ramulus, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, and their medicinal pairs, so as to provide a reference for the basic research on the pharmacological substances.

METHODS  The target compounds were identified by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS technique based on extracted ion flow chromatograms, mass spectrometry fragmentation cleavage information, and screened for haematological constituents by combining comprehensive databases such as TCMSP, BATMAN-TCM, and CNKI Networks. The chemical composition of Cinnamomi Ramulus-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma medicinal pair containing serum was analysed.

RESULTS The blood-entry components of Cinnamomi Ramulus, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, and their medicinal pairs were rich in chemical constituents. Total 103, 164, 143 constituents were identified from the blood serum of Cinnamomi Ramulus, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, and their medicinal pairs, respectively. Cinnamomi Ramulus plasma samples containing 20 potential prototype blood-entry components, and 83 metabolites of potential prototype blood-entry components.Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma plasma samples containing 41 potential prototype blood-entry components, and 123 metabolites of potential prototype blood-entry components. Cinnamomi Ramulus-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma medicinal pairs plasma samples containing 31 potential prototype blood-entry components, and 112 metabolites of potential prototype blood-entry components. Mainly differentiated including flavonoids, phenolics, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, and other components.

CONCLUSION  In this study, the blood-entry components of Cinnamomi Ramulus-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma single decoction and combined decoction are qualitatively analysed, and the differences in blood-entry components are clarified. It provides a reference for further studies on the pharmacological material basis and mechanism of action of Cinnamomi Ramulus-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma medicinal pairs.