Cyclodextrins-Assisted Extraction for the Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from Rosemary Post-Distillation Residues—In Vitro Antioxidant Activity, Comparisons to Conventional Liquid Extracts

What if the leftover rosemary from essential oil production could be turned into a treasure trove of antioxidants? A new study shows how a green solvent can unlock the hidden value in this agricultural waste.

After the essential oil is squeezed from rosemary, the leftover plant material is usually discarded. But this so-called waste is rich in bioactive compounds, and scientists are finding clever ways to reclaim them. The latest trick? Cyclodextrins—molecular cages that act as green co-solvents, gently coaxing out polyphenols and flavonoids that conventional solvents leave behind.

Key Points

• Cyclodextrins boost polyphenol recovery from rosemary waste.
• HP-β-CD outperforms β-CD and conventional solvents.
• Up to 4-fold higher DPPH scavenging than ethanol extracts.