OBJECTIVE To optimize the processing technology of Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma(AMR) processed by Aurantii Fructus Immaturus(AFI).

METHODS Comprehensive physicochemical characterization of the AFI juice and the decoction of AMR processed by AFI were conducted using specialized instrumentation. Electrical conductivity, apparent viscosity, pH values and colorimetric profiles were measured by conductivity meter, rotational viscometry, pH meter, and chroma meter, respectively. Quantitative determination of bioactive compounds, including synephrine, naringin, narirutin, hesperidin, and other pharmacologically relevant constituents, in AFI juice and the decoction of AMR processed by AFI were detected by the ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry(UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS). The antioxidant activities of AFI juice and the decoction of AMR processed by AFI were evaluated using a DPPH radical scavenging assay. A multidimensional assessment framework was established by integrating three critical quality attributes: physical parameters, the content of chemical components and antioxidant activity. The normalized weights of each evaluation index were determined by the method of AHP-CRITIC mixed weighting. The soaking time, decoction time, decoction time and amount of water added were selected as the critical factors. The preparation process of AFI juice was optimized using an integrated approach combining univariate analysis with Box-Behnken response surface methodology. The concentration of medicinal juice(AFI juice), frying time and frying temperature were selected as evaluation criteria. Univariate analysis combined with the Box-Behnken response surface methodology was used to optimize the preparation process of AMR processed by AFI.

RESULTS The optimal preparation process of AFI juice was as follows: AFI was soaked in 11 times of water for 35 min and decocted for 22 min. It was boiled twice and combined the filtrate as the AFI juice. The best preparation process of AMR processed by AFI was as follow: Add 50 mL of 0.2 g·mL⁻¹ Aurantii Fructus Immaturus juice per 100 g of Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma slices for soaking. After the juice was thoroughly soaked, it was thermally treated at 130 °C for 13 mins.

CONCLUSION The process of AMR processed by AFI is feasible in this experiment. It will provide a theoretical basis for its industrial production.