Extracting bioactive compounds and proteins from Bacopa monnieri using natural deep eutectic solvents

What if the secret to unlocking nature's pharmacy lies not in harsh chemicals, but in a gentle, eco-friendly solvent? A new study reveals how natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) can efficiently extract valuable compounds from the herb Bacopa monnieri.

Bacopa monnieri, a staple in traditional medicine, is packed with bioactive compounds and proteins. But getting them out has often required harsh solvents. Now, researchers have turned to natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES)—a green alternative—and paired them with clever extraction techniques to maximize yield.

The team tested three methods: ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and enzymatic-assisted extraction (EAE). Each had its own optimal conditions. UAE worked best with a liquid-to-solid ratio of 50 mL/g, 600W of ultrasonic power, and 30% water at 40°C for just 1 minute. MAE peaked at 40 mL/g, 400W, and 30% water for 3 minutes. EAE required a longer 60-minute soak with 30 mL/g, 20 U/g enzyme, and a specific L-Gly-Na molar ratio of 2:4:1.

To see how the extraction affected the plant material, the team used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to compare leaf surfaces before and after. They then compared seven extraction methods overall. The winner? A combined UMEAE approach—merging ultrasound, microwave, and enzyme assistance—proved most effective at pulling out phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, and proteins.

This green method could make extracting valuable compounds from plants more sustainable and efficient, offering a promising path for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.

Key Points

• NADES + UMEAE boosts extraction of phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, proteins.
• Optimal conditions: UAE 50 mL/g, 600W, 30% water, 1 min.
• SEM compared leaf surfaces; UMEAE was most effective.