Abstract: Aim: To develop a convenient and reproducible molecular marker method to identify the hygienical food of Alisma orientali from its adulterants. Method: PCR products of ITS regions were sequenced and analysed with Clustal X, Mega3.0 and restriction pattern analysis was performed with DNAMAN 4.0. Result: According to the length of rDNA ITS regions, Sagittaria sagittifolia Linn and Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam were seperated first;further authentication of Alisma orientali from Alisma plantago-aquatica Linn, Alisma canaliculatum A.Braun et Bouche, Alisma nanum D.F.Cui and Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott can be identifded sucessfully by PCR-RFLP (polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polyrnorphisrn). Conclusion: The length of rDNA ITS (intergenic spacer) regions cannot adequately distinguish hygienical food of Alisma orientali from its adulterants. PCR-RFLP is a simple and rapid method to authenticate the hygienical food of Alisma orientali from its adulterants.

Key words: Alisma orientale (Sam.) Juzep, hygienical food, adulterant, PCR-RFLP, molecular authentication