RESUMEN
The metabolomic analysis of three Cimicifuga species was performed using H-NMR spectroscopy and pattern recognition (PR) techniques. A broad range of metabolites could be detected by 'H-NMR spectroscopy without any chromatographic separation. The analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant partial least square (DPLS) of the 1H-NMR spectrum showed a clear discrimination between C. foetida and the other two species. The major metabolites responsible for the discrimination were triterpenoid saponins and saccharides. These results indicated that the combination of 1H-NMR and PR provides a useful tool for chemotaxonomic analysis and authentification of Cimicifuga species, and could used for the quality control of plant materials.