Evaluation of natural deep eutectic solvents for the extraction of bioactive flavone C-glycosides from Flos Trollii

Could a blend of natural molecules outperform traditional solvents in extracting health-boosting compounds? A new study says yes—using a green, tailor-made solvent to unlock phenolic acids from a centuries-old medicinal herb.

For centuries, Artemisia argyi leaves have been a staple in traditional medicine and food across Asia. But behind this humble herb lies a treasure: phenolic acids, the bioactive compounds credited with its health benefits. Until now, no one had designed a dedicated extraction method for these valuable molecules.

Enter deep eutectic solvents (DESs)—a new class of green, sustainable liquids. In this study, researchers crafted a series of binary and ternary DESs, then tested their ability to extract four phenolic acids from the leaves simultaneously. The standout was a ternary blend of choline chloride, malic acid, and urea in a 2:1:2 molar ratio, which outperformed conventional organic solvents.

Using response surface methodology, the team optimized extraction conditions: 23.5 minutes, a liquid-to-solid ratio of 57.5 mL/g, and 54% water in the DES. The result? A cleaner, more efficient process that could replace harmful organic solvents in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Key Points

• Ternary DES (choline chloride:malic acid:urea 2:1:2) boosts extraction
• Optimized conditions: 23.5 min, 57.5 mL/g, 54% water
• Green alternative to organic solvents for phenolic acids