[Determination of aconitine in biological samples].

The determination of aconitine in biological samples by using TLC, HPLC and animal tests is described. TLC is simple, easy to manipulate and highly sensitive. The minimum detection limit was 0.3 microgram, so it can be used as a preliminary screening method. While detecting by HPLC, the characteristic UV-absorption spectrum of aconitine and animal tests were used as the qualitative methods. The characteristic UV absorption wavelengths were (228 +/- 2) nm and (275 +/- 2) nm. The linear range of calibration curve was 2 mg/L-50 mg/L. The coefficient of variation was 0.9996. It is suitable for applications in forensic field.