GREEN EXTRACTION OF ANTIOXIDANTS FROM NATURAL SOURCES WITH NATURAL DEEP EUTECTIC SOLVENTS

What if the key to unlocking powerful antioxidants was hidden in a humble root, waiting for a greener way to be set free?

Deep inside the roots of Carlina acanthifolia L., a plant often overlooked, lies a treasure trove of bioactive compounds. This study dives into that treasure, using green extraction methods to reveal what's really there. The researchers compared two techniques: ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and pressure-liquid extraction (PLE), using both water and 70% ethanol as solvents. Their goal? To measure inulin, sugars, phenolics, and antioxidant activity in the extracts.

The numbers are striking. Total fructans reached 12.6 g per 100 g of dry weight, with inulin found mainly in water extracts from UAE—up to 6.82 g per 100 g. Phenolic content peaked at 15.25 mg GAE per gram, while antioxidant activity ranged from 5.99 to 205.83 μM TE per gram, depending on the method. The star performer was water-based UAE, likely thanks to the cavitation process that breaks cell walls and releases more goodness.

This isn't just another extraction study—it's the first detailed look at fructans and polyphenols in this species using green methods. The findings enrich our understanding of a plant with known antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and they highlight the potential of eco-friendly extraction to uncover hidden benefits. For scientists and curious minds alike, it's a reminder that nature's solutions often come with a greener twist.

Key Points

• Water UAE extracts yielded highest inulin (6.82 g/100g dw).
• Total fructans reached 12.6 g/100g dry weight.
• Antioxidant activity ranged 5.99–205.83 μM TE/g dw.