Navigating challenges and unlocking opportunities of algal food industries in India

What if a humble medicinal plant could be the key to tastier, longer-lasting food? New research on giloy reveals a green extraction method that unlocks its powerful bioactive compounds.

Giloy, a traditional medicinal plant, is packed with bioactive compounds that offer diverse health benefits. But extracting these treasures isn't always easy. This study turned to ultrasound-assisted green extraction, a cutting-edge technique that uses sound waves to gently coax out valuable molecules from giloy stems and leaves.

Using a clever statistical design called central composite rotatable design with RSM, researchers optimized the extraction process. They zeroed in on the perfect conditions: a solvent-to-solid ratio of 22.5:1, sonication for 40 minutes, and 75% solvent concentration. The resulting extracts showed impressive antioxidant activity, high total phenolic content, and good yields.

But the benefits didn't stop there. The extracts also inhibited the growth of harmful bacteria like S. aureus and E. coli. When analyzed with LC/MS, they revealed a rich profile of polyphenols, including catechin, quercetin, and berberine. These findings suggest that ultrasound-assisted extraction is a powerful, eco-friendly way to harness giloy's potential.

With its health-promoting properties and antimicrobial action, giloy could become a star functional ingredient in tasty, long-lasting foods and beverages. This research opens the door to exciting possibilities for the food industry.

Key Points

• Ultrasound boosts giloy extraction efficiency.
• Optimized conditions: 22.5:1 ratio, 40 min, 75%.
• Extracts fight bacteria and are rich in polyphenols.