Optimization of Bioactive Compounds Extraction from Platanus Orientalis Leaves using Microwave-Assisted Technique

Background: The increasing consumers’ demands for natural bioactive compounds can be attributed to the adverse effects of synthetic antioxidants. While Platanus orientalis leaves are considered waste material, they are a rich source of bioactive compounds. Conventional extraction techniques, however, have different drawbacks for the recovery of bioactive compounds. The current study aimed to optimize and evaluate the impact of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) as an independent variable on bioactive compounds recovery from P. orientalis leaves. Methods: Response surface methodology was employed to optimize the extraction conditions and maximize the quantitative yield of bioactive compounds. Moreover, the influence of the MAE process on antioxidant activity and phenolic compound profile was investigated using spectroscopy and chromatography techniques. Results: The optimal MAE conditions were determined to be ۳۰۰ W microwave power, ۱۷ min irradiation time, and a solvent-to-sample ratio of ۳۱ v/w. The extract obtained under these optimized conditions showed a higher concentration of valuable phenolic compounds, including rutin, gallic acid, myricetin, and catechin. Conclusion: The leaves of P. orientalis have the potential to be a source of bioactive compounds with significant anti-radical capacity. MAE is a potential modern technique to separate bioactive compounds from P. orientalis leaves, which could find further applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Keywords:

Platanus orientalis , Agro-waste , Bioactive , Optimization , Microwave-assisted extraction