Characterization of the Phytochemical Profile of Halophytes (Limonium Mill., Plumbaginaceae) with Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Extraction

Did you know that the plants thriving in salty coastal soils might hold the key to greener chemistry? A new study reveals how these resilient halophytes can be extracted using eco-friendly solvents, replacing toxic ones.

The genus Limonium, a group of salt-tolerant plants, has long been valued for its medicinal and nutritional uses. But extracting their beneficial compounds often relies on hazardous organic solvents that harm both health and the environment. Researchers are now turning to natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) as a safer alternative. In this study, they used ultrasound-assisted extraction to pull out phytochemicals from Limonium aerial parts, then analyzed them with high-resolution mass spectrometry. The results were striking: gallic acid and myricetin derivatives made up over 80% of the compounds identified, with gallic acid derivatives alone accounting for about 60%. The best yields came from a NADES mixture of choline chloride and ethylene glycol (1:3), which improved recovery by about 20% compared to traditional methanol-based solvents. This breakthrough not only reduces toxic waste but also opens doors to studying new Limonium species in southern Spain.

Key Points

• Gallic acid and myricetin derivatives make up over 80% of compounds.
• NADES choline chloride/ethylene glycol (1:3) boosts yields by ~20%.
• Eco-friendly extraction replaces toxic organic solvents.