A review of modern and conventional extraction techniques and their applications for extracting phytochemicals from plants

For centuries, humanity has relied on plants to heal diseases and inspire life-saving drugs. Now, the age-old quest to pull these chemical treasures from nature is getting a high-tech, eco-friendly makeover.

Extracting valuable compounds from plant materials stands as the absolute cornerstone of natural product research. For generations, scientists have pursued better ways to isolate these healing metabolites. Today, that relentless endeavor is shifting gears. Alongside traditional solvent-based methods, a suite of robust and promising green extraction techniques is rapidly gaining significance across the scientific community.

This comprehensive review dives deep into both conventional approaches and cutting-edge innovations. Researchers explore advanced methods including supercritical fluid, ultrasound-assisted, accelerated solvent, microwave, and enzyme-assisted extraction. By critically analyzing extraction conditions, optimized settings, and the distinct pros and cons of each method, the review maps out their recent applications.

Ultimately, this work aims to propel advanced research and practical applications forward. As extraction remains an integral component of natural products research, refining these techniques unlocks new potential for tapping into the pharmacy of nature.

Key Points

• Phytochemicals serve as traditional medicines and drug lead compounds
• Modern green methods include ultrasound, microwave, and supercritical fluid
• Review analyzes conditions, advantages, disadvantages, and recent applications