NMR Relaxometry to Evaluate the Bauhinia Forficata Tea Infusion and Decoction

Abstract

Nuclear magnetic resonance is a spectroscopic that permits analyzing samples by both solution and solid state. From solution and solid state NMR it is possible to obtain a good deal of information on sample molecular structure and dynamics, respectively. Plant extracts are often analyzed by solution NMR due to the complex compositions. The use of solid state, employing low-field NMR, such as spin-lattice relaxation time, gives response on the molecular dynamics. In this study, Bauhinia forficata parts and their extracts were evaluated to obtain tea with better properties to the health quality. Solution NMR techniques and relaxometry were used to evidence the therapeutic effects of this plant on diabetes, according to its chemical constitution. Studies revealed that its effectiveness is due to the presence of several classes of compounds as terpenes and flavonoids. The relaxometry was effective in characterizing the domains formed after the introduction of sugar in the tea.