Green, Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction for Carvacrol-Rich Origanum dubium Extracts: A Multi-Response Optimization...

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Green Chemistry
• Extraction Technology

Background:

• Origanum dubium, a Mediterranean oregano species, is understudied despite its potential pharmaceutical properties.
• Oregano species are known for valuable compounds like carvacrol, total phenolic compounds (TPC), and total flavonoid compounds (TFC).
• Efficient and sustainable extraction methods are needed to harness these bioactive compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sustainable and efficient method for extracting carvacrol, TPC, and TFC from Origanum dubium.
• To optimize pulse-mode ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UPAE) parameters using green solvents.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in optimizing the extraction process.

Main Methods:

• Utilized pulse-mode ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UPAE) with ethanol-water mixtures.
• Employed a Box-Behnken design (BBD) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for process optimization.
• Optimized extraction temperature, time, solvent ratio, and ultrasonic power amplitude.

Main Results:

• RSM identified optimal conditions: 70 °C for 26 min, 60% ethanol-water ratio, and 100% power amplitude.
• These conditions maximized the yield of carvacrol, TPC, and TFC.
• The optimized UPAE method proved efficient for extracting bioactive compounds.

Conclusions:

• The optimized UPAE method offers a green and sustainable approach for Origanum dubium extract production.
• The extracted compounds show potential for applications in functional foods and preservatives.
• This research provides a valuable framework for optimizing extraction processes for understudied medicinal plants.