A green extraction design for enhancing flavonoid compounds from Ixora javanica flowers using a deep eutectic solvent

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Green Chemistry
• Natural Product Extraction

Background:

• Ixora javanica is a potential source of bioactive compounds.
• Traditional extraction methods may not be environmentally sustainable.
• Flavonoids possess significant health and cosmetic benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an eco-friendly extraction method for flavonoids from Ixora javanica.
• To optimize extraction parameters for maximum flavonoid yield.
• To evaluate the efficiency of deep eutectic solvent (DES) and ultrasound-assisted extraction.

Main Methods:

• Utilized deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of choline chloride and propylene glycol.
• Employed ultrasound-assisted extraction technique.
• Applied Box Behnken design for response surface analysis to determine optimal conditions.

Main Results:

• Identified optimal extraction conditions: 40 min extraction time, 25% water content in DES, and a 1:25 g/mL solid-to-liquid ratio.
• Achieved higher total flavonoid yields compared to ethanolic extraction.
• Observed distinct effects of solvents on the Ixora javanica flower surface via scanning electron microscopy.

Conclusions:

• Successfully established an optimized green extraction protocol for Ixora javanica flavonoids.
• Demonstrated the efficacy of DES and ultrasound for efficient and sustainable flavonoid extraction.
• Highlighted Ixora javanica as a promising source for herbal medicine and cosmetic applications.