Antioxidant Properties of Curcuma caesia Extracted Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent

What if the key to unlocking nature's antioxidants lies not in harsh chemicals, but in a gentle, eco-friendly solvent made from sugar and citric acid?

Black turmeric, or Curcuma caesia, is a hidden gem in the plant kingdom, brimming with natural antioxidants. But traditional extraction methods rely on organic solvents that harm the environment. Enter Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES)—a greener alternative that's both effective and sustainable.

In this study, scientists crafted four NADES formulations, each a unique blend of natural compounds like citric acid, sucrose, and choline chloride. They tested these solvents on black turmeric rhizomes, measuring their ability to pull out phenolic and flavonoid compounds—the powerhouse antioxidants.

The results were striking. NADES 1, made from citric acid and sucrose, boasted the highest density and phenolic content. But it was NADES 2, a mix of sucrose, glucose, and fructose, that stole the spotlight with the most potent antioxidant activity, as confirmed by both DPPH and FRAP tests.

This research highlights NADES as a promising, eco-conscious tool for extracting valuable plant compounds. It's a step toward greener chemistry that doesn't compromise on performance.

Key Points

• Four NADES formulations were created and tested on black turmeric.
• NADES 2 showed strongest antioxidant activity in both DPPH and FRAP assays.
• NADES offers an eco-friendly alternative to organic solvents.