Selective extraction of bioactive compounds from plants using recent extraction techniques: A review.

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry and Natural Product Chemistry
• Green Chemistry and Sustainable Extraction Technologies

Background:

• Plant extraction is a long-standing practice, with modern technology enabling higher yields.
• Focus is shifting from overall yield to selective extraction of desired metabolites, avoiding unwanted compounds like primary metabolites.
• Solvent polarity significantly impacts selectivity in traditional solid-liquid extraction (maceration).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in plant extraction techniques, emphasizing selectivity.
• To explore the influence of physical parameters and solvent selection on extraction specificity.
• To highlight green extraction methods and their potential for targeted compound isolation.

Main Methods:

• Review of advanced extraction techniques: Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE), Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE), Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE), and Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE).
• Analysis of the impact of solvent polarity and physical parameters (pressure, intensity) on extraction selectivity.
• Discussion of modeling compound/solvent interactions to optimize solvent choice.

Main Results:

• Recent techniques offer improved control over extraction specificity compared to traditional methods.
• Physical parameters of advanced techniques significantly influence extraction outcomes and selectivity.
• Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE), particularly with SC-CO2, demonstrates versatility and green characteristics for selective compound extraction.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing solvent selection and physical parameters is crucial for enhancing extraction selectivity.
• Advanced techniques like SFE provide efficient and environmentally friendly routes for isolating specific plant compounds.
• Tailoring extraction conditions, especially with SC-CO2, allows for precise control over metabolite enrichment.