Abstract: NMR-based metabolomics were used to investigate the metabolites of Tussilago farfara L. at different growth stages. Using 1D and 2D NMR spectra, 34 polar metabolites and 6 apolar metabolites were assigned. The 1H NMR data were then subjected to principal component analysis and the results showed clear separation of all the different stages of T.farfara L. Samples of October, November and December were in close proximity on the plot, indicating similar metabolome of these periods; samples from September (early development) and March (after flowering) were far away, showing significant chemical differences. With bud development, sucrose content gradually decreased and reached the lowest after flowering; tussilagone level gradually increased to the highest after flowering. The result of this study was in accordance with the traditional use of this herbal medicine. Metabolites of the early and flowering stages were quite different from those of the traditional harvest time, suggesting that they could not be used as traditional medicine. In addition, antitussive and expectorant effects were the results of synergistic effects of a variety of ingredients.

Key words: Tussilago farfara L., metabolomics, principal component analysis