Object To establish the standardization and digit ization methods for gas chromatographic fingerprint chromatograms of the
essenti al oil of
Curcuma longa L. Methods A polynomial regression analysis technique was estab lished for the calculation and prediction of the gas chromatographic retention i ndices by using a series of normal aliphatic hydrocarbons as the reference stand ards. And it was used for the characterization of the features of the gas chroma tographic fingerprint spectra of the essential oil of C. longa. Results It was approved that
retention indices of the gas chrom atographic fingerprint spectra obtained at a variety of conditions were stable and reliable with excellent reproducibility, and fairly good ruggedness. It was also much better than the relative retention time indices. Conclusion The fingerprint spectra standard established on t he multiple references basis are much more reasonable and useful for the practic al quality assurance and validation of Chinese herbals.