Optimization of ultrasonic and microwave-assisted extraction with natural deep eutectic solvents for enhanced recovery of phenolics and terpenoids from celery leaves

Celery leaves are often thrown away—but they hide a treasure of health-boosting compounds. Now, scientists have found a greener way to unlock them using natural deep eutectic solvents and a little sonic and microwave power.

Celery leaves, the overlooked byproduct of the celery stalk, are packed with phenolics and terpenoids—compounds with antioxidant and aromatic properties. But extracting them efficiently without harsh chemicals has been a challenge. Enter natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), a new class of green solvents made from natural components like sugars and organic acids. They are biodegradable, non-toxic, and surprisingly effective at dissolving bioactive molecules.

In this study, researchers optimized two extraction methods—ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE)—using NADES to maximize the recovery of these valuable compounds from celery leaves. By fine-tuning parameters like solvent composition, time, and temperature, they identified conditions that significantly outperformed conventional solvent extraction. The result: a sustainable, energy-efficient process that pulls out more phenolics and terpenoids in less time.

This work highlights the potential of NADES as a win-win solution for the food and pharmaceutical industries—reducing environmental impact while boosting yields. It also gives celery leaves a second life, turning waste into a source of functional ingredients. The next time you toss celery leaves, think again—they might just be the future of green chemistry.

Key Points

• NADES + ultrasound/microwave boosts phenolic and terpenoid recovery.
• Optimized parameters outperform conventional solvent extraction.
• Green, efficient process turns celery leaf waste into value.