A new method for rapid identification of traditional Chinese medicine based on a new silver sol: using the SERS spectrum for quality control of flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides in Potentilla discolor Bge.

The effectiveness of cesium ions as focusing agents in enhancing Raman signals of flavonoids is demonstrated. By using cesium ions, Potentilla discolor Bge. samples from ten origins are characterized, and an efficient method is proposed for identification of traditional Chinese medicines.