Qualitative Profile and Quantitative Determination of Flavonoids from Crocus sativus L. Petals by LC-MS/MS

From the methanolic extract of Crocus sativus petals nine known flavonoids have been isolated and identified, including glycosidic derivatives of quercetin and kaempferol as major compounds (1-2), and their methoxylated and acetylated derivatives. Additionally, LC-ESI-MS qualitative and LC-ESI-MS/MS quantitative studies of the major compounds of the methanolic extract were performed. The high content of glycosylated flavonoids could give value to C. sativus petals, which are a waste product in the production of the spice saffron