Chemical differentiation of Da-Cheng-Qi-Tang, a Chinese medicine formula, prepared by traditional and modern decoction methods using UPLC/Q-TOFMS-based metabolomics approach

- Chemical consistency between traditional and modern decoctions of Da-Cheng-Qi-Tang was evaluated.
- An UPLC/Q-TOFMS-based metabolomics approach was employed.
- Five compounds were identified as the markers contributing most to the differences.
- The purgative effect of traditional decoction of Da-Cheng-Qi-Tang may be more potent.
- We provided scientific evidence of traditional decoction method of Da-Cheng-Qi-Tang.