Recent Advances in Microwave Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Complex Herbal Samples: A Review

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Green Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Conventional extraction methods for phytoconstituents are often inefficient, solvent-intensive, and can degrade thermally sensitive compounds.
• There is a growing need for sustainable and effective extraction techniques in herbal research and the medical field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the working principles and significance of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) technology.
• To highlight MAE as a green technology for extracting bioactive compounds from complex plant matrices.
• To discuss critical parameters influencing MAE efficiency.

Main Methods:

• This review focuses on microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) as a non-conventional extraction technique.
• It discusses the generation of heat using microwave energy for extraction.
• Key parameters influencing extraction efficiency are analyzed.

Main Results:

• MAE provides a more yielding, rapid, and solvent-efficient method compared to conventional techniques.
• MAE ensures the stability of thermolabile components during extraction.
• MAE is presented as a green technology, contrasting favorably with other extraction methods.

Conclusions:

• Microwave-assisted extraction is a significant advancement in herbal research and medical applications.
• MAE offers a sustainable and efficient approach for isolating valuable phytoconstituents.
• Understanding critical parameters is essential for optimizing MAE for complex plant matrices.