Abstract: An optimal extraction and purification method of the steroidal saponins with 5α-reductase and Candida albicans inhibitory activities from Hosta ventricosa was investigated by HPLC analysis.The single factor study and orthogonal design were performed to analyze the extract solvent,extraction time and times.As the result,the optimal extraction condition was as follows:the dried root was extracted by reflux with water in solid/liquid ratio of 1∶14 (w/v) twice (each 0.5 h) to produce saponin extract.The optimized purification method of saponin extract was as follows:the extract was subjected to D101 macroporous resin column chromatography with a ratio of diameter to high 1∶12 and a ratio of sample to resin of 1∶20 (w/w);the column was eluented with 40% alcohol for 10 BV (bed volume) to remove the water-soluble purities and followed by 80% alcohol elution for 12 BV to afford the crude saponins.The crude saponins were further refined by D101 resin column chromatography which was firstly eluented with 3 BV 50% alcohol to remove the purities and then with 3BV 70% alcohol to afford the purified saponins.The purity of purified saponins obtained using the optimal method was above 50%.The purified saponins possessed the potent 5α-reductase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀  = 13.2 μg/mL) and anti-C.albicans effect (IC₅₀ = 25.3 μg/mL).

Key words: Hosta ventricosa, steroidal saponins, 5α-reductase, Candida albicans, preparation technology, macroporous resin chromatography