Application and mechanism of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of ginkgo flavonol glycosides with natural deep eutectic solvent-based supramolecular solvents

What if extracting the potent compounds from ginkgo leaves could be faster, greener, and more efficient than ever before? A new study shows how ultrasound and a clever solvent combination achieve just that—in just 15 minutes.

Ginkgo biloba has long been prized for its flavonol glycosides, compounds that boost blood circulation and protect neurons. But traditional extraction methods are slow, inefficient, and not exactly kind to the environment. This study offers a sleek alternative: combine ultrasound with a natural deep eutectic solvent-based supramolecular solvent (NADES-SUPRAS/EqS). The result? A green, rapid process that slashes extraction time dramatically.

Through careful optimization, the researchers pinpointed the sweet spot: 160 W ultrasonic power, 15 minutes of treatment, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 40 mg/mL, and a gentle 30°C. Under these conditions, they achieved a yield of 8.025 mg/g of ginkgo flavonol glycosides. Even better, the solvent system proved highly recyclable, recovering 91.3% of the target compounds—promising for industrial-scale production.

But how does it work? Microscopy revealed that the solvent forms tiny micellar vesicles with a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic corona. Ultrasound helps these structures disrupt ginkgo leaf cell walls more effectively. Meanwhile, density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed strong hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions between the solvent and rutin, a key flavonol glycoside. This dual action—physical disruption and chemical affinity—explains the method's efficiency.

This research isn't just about ginkgo. It provides a blueprint for green, ultrasonic-assisted extraction of other natural bioactive compounds, potentially transforming how we harvest nature's pharmacy.

Key Points

• Ultrasound + NADES-SUPRAS/EqS cuts extraction to 15 minutes
• Optimal yield 8.025 mg/g at 160 W, 30°C, 40 mg/mL
• Solvent recyclable with 91.3% recovery rate