Compositional Analysis and Bioactivity Assessment of the Anemone baicalensis Rhizome: Exploring the Potential for Substituting Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma

Anemone baicalensis, a plant abundant in Northeast China, has garnered attention for its potential medicinal properties. While its aerial parts (ABAP) have demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, the rhizome (ABR) remains less explored, particularly in comparison to the well-documented Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma, a valuable traditional Chinese medicine. This study investigates the chemical composition and bioactivity of ABR, comparing it with ABAP and evaluating its potential as a substitute for Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma. Phytochemical analyses, including qualitative and quantitative assessments, were conducted on ABR extracts using various solvents. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through multiple assays, and stability studies were performed on methanol and 80% ethanol extracts. UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS was employed to identify chemical constituents. Acute toxicity and hepatoprotective effects were assessed in vivo using a rat model. The results revealed that ABR and ABAP share nearly half of their chemical components, with ABR containing a higher diversity of triterpenoid saponins. The 80% ethanol extract of ABR exhibited the highest extraction yield, rich in phenolics and triterpenoids, and demonstrated superior antioxidant activity and stability. In vivo studies showed that ABR significantly reduced liver injury markers (ALT, AST, γ-GT, and MDA), enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT), and increased albumin concentration, comparable to the effects of Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma. Acute toxicity tests indicated low toxicity, supporting its safety for medicinal use. ABR shows significant potential as a substitute for Anemones raddeanae Rhizoma, particularly due to its rich triterpenoid content and hepatoprotective effects. While ABAP outperforms ABR in terms of antioxidant activity, ABR’s unique chemical profile and liver-protective capabilities highlight its value in drug development. This study provides a scientific foundation for the further exploration of ABR as a sustainable alternative in traditional medicine.