UHPLC-HRMS analysis combined with feature-based molecular networking methods for systematic identification of chemicals in AnShenDingZhiLing and its absorbed metabolites

243 compounds (including 60 flavonoids, 50 terpenoids, 24 phenylpropanoids, 18 alkaloids, 18 anthraquinones, 16 phenylethanoid glycosides, 13 phenolic acids, nine xanthones, nine oligosaccharides, eight phthaleins, eight naphthopyrones, four organic acids, four aromatic aldehydes, and two diarylheptanoids) were characterized. Following the administration of AnShenDingZhiLing to rats, a total of 110 compounds related to Chinese herbal medicine ingredients were identified in the plasma and cerebrum samples. The primary metabolic pathways of chemicals derived from AnShenDingZhiLing can be summarized in methylation, demethylation, hydrolysis, hydroxylation, sulfation, and glucuronidation. In summary, through this rapid and accurate analytical method, the comprehensive chemical profiles of AnShenDingZhiLing and its metabolites were characterized. Additionally, in this study, we provide essential analytical thinking and scientific evidence for exploring the material basis of AnShenDingZhiLing efficacy further.